What feeding therapy techniques have you used with your patients?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Entry Level Example
Answer Example
Experienced Example

You've likely seen patients with food-related behavioral issues as an ABA therapist. Feeding therapy techniques you might use with your patients vary depending on the individual's specific needs and preferences. Some standard techniques include introducing new foods gradually, using positive reinforcement to encourage trying new foods, and using visual aids to help your patient understand and identify different foods. Additionally, you may work with the patient to develop new mealtime routines and strategies to improve overall eating habits and reduce anxiety around mealtimes.

After attending therapy sessions with you, have your patients started to cut their food, properly use utensils, wait quietly at restaurants, or wipe their mouths without being asked? These are examples of success stories you can share with your interviewer.

"I have learned a little bit about feeding therapy techniques at university. The techniques I learned included teaching a child with autism to use utensils and providing them with strong posture support during mealtime. More severe cases may require help with motor functions such as getting the food from their plate to their mouth. Also, reinforcing with food itself may be a reward if there is food the patient especially appreciates."

"Confusion and distaste towards textures and temperatures can be difficult for some of my patients to overcome. I've used Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy to help my patients overcome some of their behaviors related to food and nourishment. This type of cognitive-behavioral therapy is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). ERP aims to help individuals confront their fears and obsessive thoughts while also learning how to resist the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors. I have had great success with this therapy and will continue using it with patients who have food-related behaviors."

"When working with patients that suffer from a food-related aversion, I make a point to educate the family on the importance of reinforcement and how to use my therapy methods successfully. This past month I've been working with a family and teaching the importance of ignoring the negative behaviors and reinforcing the small, positive wins."