Eating disorders are sneaky, insidious diseases that create a tremendous amount of anxiety in the person suffering. The disorder has created an irrational fear that cannot be reasoned with. Therefore, the only way to alleviate the fear is to do the unthinkable--and eat the foods. Exposure therapy for eating disorders is like exposure therapy for OCD and other anxiety disorders in that they all share the same principle: exposure to a feared object, situation, or thought.

Eating disorders in autistic individuals are not just neurotypical EDs in disguise. They are often driven by neurological differences, sensory processing patterns, alexithymia, and the emotional toll of masking rather than a desire for thinness or a distorted body image. By increasing awareness, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for neurodivergent-affirming care, we can support autistic people on a path to recovery that honors their unique experiences.

I have seen the benefit of family therapy in the treatment of teens and adults struggling with eating disorders. As with other addictions,

It can take a lot of planning, preparation, and emotional fortitude to spend time together with family. Yet year after year we keep doing i