Behavioral Feeding Program

• Food selectivity (limited variety or specific brands/textures)
• Low oral intake or small amounts of food
• Refusal of all or most foods
• Anxiety around trying new foods or following a traumatic event (e.g., choking)
• Food aversions (sensitivity to smell, temperature, taste or texture)
• Tube dependence or reliance on oral supplements
• Rigid eating patterns
• Difficulties maintaining or gaining weight
• Inappropriate mealtime behaviors causing stress

Feeding problems often arise from medical, nutritional, psycho-social and skill-based factors. Even when other factors are managed, children may develop fear or anxiety around food due to past difficulties, discomfort or pain. Behavioral therapy helps these children gradually overcome food-related challenges, increase exposure to new foods and develop appropriate mealtime behaviors.

The program provides evidence-based assessment and treatment using ABA principles. Therapy focuses on reducing disruptive behaviors, promoting positive eating habits and increasing oral intake.

<ul>
<li>Initial assessment including meal observation to identify factors contributing to inappropriate mealtime behaviors (IMTBs)</li>
<li>Development of individualized treatment goals and a formalized plan</li>
<li>Ongoing data collection to monitor progress</li>
<li>Direct feeding therapy sessions with a licensed psychologist while caregivers observe</li>
<li>Parent training to implement therapy strategies at home</li>
<li>Collaboration with other medical providers and specialists</li>
</ul>

Sessions occur weekly or multiple times per week over 10–12 weeks. Each session lasts 45–60 minutes and includes parent education, direct therapy and caregiver training.

Referrals are accepted from a child’s healthcare provider or through self-referral. Contact GCH Buffalo to learn more or schedule an appointment.