Voices of Lived Experience:
Rachel Dorsey
In this interview, Rachel Dorsey, an autistic speech language pathologist, shares her personal journey with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). Rachel discusses her early eating challenges, dietary limitations, and the impact of social and environmental factors on her eating habits. She details her sensory preferences and the emotional complexities surrounding her relationship with food. As an adult, Rachel explains how she manages her eating based on stress levels and sensory needs, advocating for herself to find comforting and safe food choices. The conversation highlights the importance of trusted mealtime partners, reduced pressure, and creating a supportive and understanding environment for individuals with ARFID. Rachel's insights provide valuable perspectives for parents and professionals in addressing and supporting eating differences.