ARFID Through Lived Experience: Sensory Challenges, ADHD, and Creative Recovery Tools w/Cilla Moore-Massey, LCSW
Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is so much more than just picky eating — and the lived experience is far more complex. In this episode, we’re joined by veteran podcast guest Cilla Moore-Massey, LCSW, to discuss her personal journey with ARFID, including the impact of sensory sensitivities, a gluten allergy, food insecurity, and neurodivergence.
We explore how ARFID presents across the lifespan, the role of neurodivergence and ADHD, and why flexible, client-led approaches are essential. Cilla highlights creative exposure strategies, the importance of emotional validation, and how autonomy and curiosity can support meaningful progress in recovery.
Whether you're a clinician, supporter, or navigating ARFID yourself, this episode offers practical tools and compassionate insight into individualized, trauma-informed care.
🧰 Takeaways:
* ARFID is more than picky eating and often involves sensory, medical, and emotional factors
* Neurodivergence and ADHD can significantly impact motivation, structure, and treatment approaches
* Small, creative exposure strategies (like the three-bite rule and “brave beads”) can build confidence over time
* Validation, autonomy, and client-led pacing are essential for trauma-informed ARFID care
* Recovery is individualized, non-linear, and benefits from flexibility and curiosity
📚 Resources & Mentions:
* Pitaya App [https://arfid.app/]
* Borage Eats [https://www.borageeats.com/]
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🔗 Connect With Us:
* Website: https://www.collab-counseling.com/ [https://www.collab-counseling.com/]
* IG: @stop.collaborateandlistenpod [https://www.instagram.com/stop.collaborateandlistenpod/]
* IG: @collab.counseling [https://www.instagram.com/collab.counseling/]