Raising the Profile of ARFID Through Clinical Insight with Dr. Stephen Linacre

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Dr. Stephen Linacre. Stephen is a Principal Clinical Psychologist in the NHS with extensive experience supporting individuals with eating disorders and neurodiversity. He’s published research, contributed to books, and chairs the trustee board of Freed Beaches, a Nottingham-based charity supporting people with eating disorders.Having lived through an eating disorder himself, Stephen brings a powerful dual perspective to his clinical work and advocacy, particularly in raising awareness for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).This week, we discuss: Stephen’s lived experience of anorexia nervosa Navigating eating disorder recovery alongside Type 1 diabetes and cerebral palsyHow his personal eating disorder experience shaped his career in clinical psychologyIntroduction to ARFID and the lack of recognition in servicesKey differences between ARFID and anorexiaThe role of neurodiversity and sensory sensitivities in ARFIDWhy misdiagnoses like “fussy eating” are harmfulPractical advice for clinicians, parents, and carers supporting someone with ARFIDTimestamps:01:42 – Stephen's personal experience of anorexia as a teenage boy05:51 – Living with Type 1 diabetes and cerebral palsy12:00 – Stigma, recovery, and men with EDs16:40 – Introducing ARFID and why services fall short18:28 – ARFID vs. anorexia: why standard treatment may be harmful22:05 – Autism, sensory issues, and ARFID overlaps24:00 – Challenges with diagnosis, language, and access to care27:00 – Advice for parents, carers, and cliniciansTrigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of anorexia, ARFID, chronic illness, and recovery. Please listen with care.Resources & Links:ARFID & Autism research paperBirth complications & eating disorders research paper Peace pathway (Autism & eating disorder resources) ARFID Awareness UKConnect with Us:Subscribe to the Full of Beans Podcast hereFollow Full of Beans on Instagram hereRead our latest blog hereThank you for listening and being part of this important conversation!If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit!Sending positive beans your way, Han 💛