ASD Feeding Program

General, News, Services, UCCF

The University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF) is excited to share news about the feeding program for ASD* clients.

The feeding program uses empirically supported behavioral strategies to address feeding concerns. A BCBA* will work one on one with the individual client. Goals include increasing food repertoire while decreasing maladaptive behaviors.

Feeding therapy targets individuals who have the following behaviors surrounding eating:

  • Refusal behaviors (i.e. head turning, pushing away spoon, swatting)
  • Disruptive behaviors (i.e. crying, screaming, leaving the table, throwing food or utensils, arguing)
  • Aggression (i.e. hitting, kicking, biting, scratching, pinching)
  • Very selective eating patterns (i.e. only eating certain foods)
  • Foods that need to look right (i.e. no bruises, shape)

ASD = Autism Spectrum Disorder(s)

BCBA = Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Caregiver Involvement

Caregiver support is important as well; parents are encouraged to join sessions to learn strategies to promote generalization at
home.

In addition, regular parent meetings with the BCBA will also be scheduled.

Outpatient versus In-House Services

We offer this program either as an outpatient service, or it can be combined with in-house ABA services at our clinic.

Outpatient sessions are typically 1 hour in length, and can be schedule 1-3 times per week, depending on the client needs.

Patients may be enrolled in outside ABA therapy programs, in addition to participating in our outpatient program.

If the family is receiving ABA services through us already, feeding goals would be incorporated into the client’s current ABA sessions .

Insurance Information

Currently, we accept clients with insurance who have a diagnosis of ASD and insurance authorization for ABA services.

If there is no ASD diagnosis or insurance does not provide authorization for ABA services, self-pay is accepted as well.


Ready to learn more information? Call us at (734) 615-7853 or complete our secure, online ‘Contact Us’ form. Learn more about our Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) services on this webpage.


The University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF) is strongly committed to helping children and families enjoy a happier life, more satisfying relationships, and increased success. UCCF is a part of the Mary A. Rackham Institute at the University of Michigan, which provides provides high-quality, individualized mental health, neuropsychological testing, and language and literacy services to the community.