DiscoverThe Full of Beans PodcastRaising the Profile of ARFID Through Clinical Insight with Dr. Stephen Linacre
Raising the Profile of ARFID Through Clinical Insight with Dr. Stephen Linacre

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

Update: 2025-08-18
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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 palsy
  • How his personal eating disorder experience shaped his career in clinical psychology
  • Introduction to ARFID and the lack of recognition in services
  • Key differences between ARFID and anorexia
  • The role of neurodiversity and sensory sensitivities in ARFID
  • Why misdiagnoses like “fussy eating” are harmful
  • Practical advice for clinicians, parents, and carers supporting someone with ARFID

Timestamps:

  • 01:42 – Stephen's personal experience of anorexia as a teenage boy
  • 05:51 – Living with Type 1 diabetes and cerebral palsy
  • 12:00 – Stigma, recovery, and men with EDs
  • 16:40 – Introducing ARFID and why services fall short
  • 18:28 – ARFID vs. anorexia: why standard treatment may be harmful
  • 22:05 – Autism, sensory issues, and ARFID overlaps
  • 24:00 – Challenges with diagnosis, language, and access to care
  • 27:00 – Advice for parents, carers, and clinicians

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of anorexia, ARFID, chronic illness, and recovery. Please listen with care.

Resources & Links:

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  • Subscribe to the Full of Beans Podcast here
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  • Read our latest blog here

Thank 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 💛

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

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