BRAVE IOP
Intensive Outpatient Program for Children with ARFID
A structured, family-based program designed to increase food variety, reduce anxiety, and build confidence around eating.
Hours
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
9A – 12P
Who This Program Is For
Children ages 7-12 participating alongside parents/caregivers
ARFID is more than picky eating. This program may be appropriate if your child
- Eats only a limited range of foods
- Prefers specific brands or preparations
- Struggles with textures, smells or flavors
- Has low appetite
- Experiences fear of vomiting or choking
Family-based Program
Children and parents participate together in all groups.
NUTRITION & FOOD EXPOSURE
Weekly Nutrition Counseling (1x/week)
Individualized sessions with a dietitian to tailor care and monitor progress.
Meal Support Training (Parents + Kids)
Learn what to say and how to support your child during meals.
Family-based Nutrition Education
Interactive learning with both children and caregivers.
Exploration Group (Food Exposures)
Gradual, structured exposure to new foods in a supportive environment.
Cooking Adventures
Hands-on activities to build confidence and flexibility with food.
THERAPEUTIC PROGRAMMING
Skills & Psychoeducation Group (Kids + Parents)
Practical tools to manage anxiety, rigidity, and mealtime challenges.
Body Awareness Group (Kids + Parents)
Building interoceptive awareness (hunger, fullness, body cues).
Parent-Only Therapy/Skills Group
Focused coaching, consistency strategies, and home implementation support.
TREATMENT APPROACH
Evidence-based, family-centered care:
- Family-based Treatment (FBT)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Our goal is to help your family feel more confident, connected, and supported at every meal. Early support can make a lasting difference. Let’s work together to help your child thrive.
Esperanza’s Adolescent IOP is in-network with Aetna, Baylor Scott & White, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Cigna, Community First Commercial, ComPsych, Humana, Magellan Health, Optum, Oscar, TRIWEST, TRIWEST VA CNN, and United Behavioral Health. Our expert screening staff can quickly assess whether the Adolescent IOP is your best treatment option.
Housing Accommodations
Esperanza understands that sometimes an obstacle to getting treatment can be location. This is why we have established a relationship with the local Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Antonio. They are committed to assisting in the health and well-being of children by offering free accommodations for a family member and their adolescent during time in eating disorder treatment.
If you are considering treatment and live outside the San Antonio area, please connect with our Intake Coordinator, Dessimber Lauber, LVN for an assessment. To receive details on this housing opportunity contact Beth Confer, Director of Community Outreach at 210.749.1030 or email bethc@EsperanzaEDC.com.
