Feeding Therapy at AZ+A is important for children who have a complicated relationship with food. Picky eaters. Anxious Eaters. Worried eaters. There is no shortage of labels for those who struggle with eating or trying new foods. It’s important to look beyond the label and understand the “why” behind picky eating or adverse reactions to new foods.

Karen Dilfer, MS, OTR/L has joined the Amy Zier and Associates team of occupational therapists as a specialist in eating therapy. Karen has extensive experience in creating successful treatment plans for picky eaters to AZ+A’s Feeding Therapy. Her expertise helps children enjoy food and reduce mealtime battles. Karen mentored with Marsha Dunn Klein, MEd, OTR/L, creator of the “Get Permission” approach to mealtimes and an expert in the field of pediatric feeding.

The “Get Permission Approach by Marsha Dunn Klein is based on the belief that feeding is a relationship not only with food but also between parent and child. This method of feeding therapy promotes that eating is based on trust, communication, and responsiveness by the child. Karen’s specific approach to food therapy was featured in a recent Chicago Tribune article. At AZ+A, Karen will work with kids and families in our kitchen and offer telehealth feeding therapy to support families through the COVID-19 pandemic,

If you have a child that will not eat, cannot eat, or does not eat enough to grow, you know how frustrating and concerning eating aversion is for parents and the children themselves. When children turn away from food, struggle to swallow, push food away, or gag at the sight of food, professional intervention may be necessary. Feeding therapy helps children and families move toward healthy eating habits.

Get started by learning more about AZ+A Feeding Therapy today! Clinic and telehealth options are available. Complete the online assessment or contact the clinic to begin your family’s path to happy and healthy mealtimes.