A 9-Week Evidence-Informed Program for Adolescents (ages 12-17) and their Caregivers
Does your teen struggle with extreme food avoidance, intense anxiety around eating, or a very limited range of “safe” foods? You aren’t alone, and there is a path forward. Our specialized group integrates the gold-standard treatments for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) to help your family build confidence and flexibility around food.
Why This Group?
ARFID is more than “picky eating”—it is a complex sensory or anxiety-based challenge. We believe that for a teen to succeed, the whole family needs the right tools. Our dual-track approach ensures that while teens are learning to face their fears, parents are learning how to lead the way with calm, supportive boundaries.
The Evidence Based Approach
For the Teens: CBT-AR
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for ARFID helps teens understand the “why” behind their avoidance.
- Reducing fear and sensory avoidance
- Increasing food variety and flexibility
- Building long-term confidence
For the Parents: SPACE
Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions helps shift the parental response to anxiety.
- Reducing unhelpful food accommodations
- Responding to anxiety with calm confidence
- Ending power struggles around the table
Group Structure & Schedule
We utilize a unique “Split & Shared” format to maximize clinical impact and practical application:
- Part 1 (30 Mins): Parallel Tracks. Teens meet with Heather to focus on CBT-AR skills; Parents meet with Valerie to focus on SPACE strategies.
- Part 2 (30 Mins): Collaborative Session. Groups come together for supported food exposures, real-time skill application, and planning for the week ahead.
The Logistics:
- Dates: Wednesdays, April 29, 2026 – June 24, 2026 (9 Weeks)
- Time: 60 Minutes (Exact time TBD)
- Location: Chappaqua, NY / Hybrid (In-person and virtual options available)
- Ages: Teens 12–17 and their caregivers
Meet Your Facilitators
Heather Rosen, PhD
Dr. Heather Rosen is the Director of the Eating Disorder Program and specializes in adolescent eating disorders and CBT-AR, helping teens navigate the emotional and physical hurdles of expanding their palate in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Valerie Scelsa, PhD
Dr. Valerie Scelsa is an expert in the SPACE protocol, empowering parents to support their children’s growth by adjusting the family environment and reducing the “accommodation cycle” that often keeps ARFID in place.
Is This Group Right For Us?
This program is a great fit if:
-
Your teen has a limited range of preferred foods or avoids entire food groups
-
Mealtimes have become a source of conflict or high stress in your home
-
You want a collaborative, non-blaming environment to learn practical skills
-
You are looking for a community of others who “get it.”
This isn’t about pressure or blame. It’s about building a toolkit for a more flexible, nourished life.