“You Want Me to do What?”: Collaborating with Clients when Developing ARFID Exposures

About the Presenters

Laura McLain, PsyD, BC-TMH, is the Clinical Telehealth Supervisor and Training Specialist for The Renfrew Center. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge and her Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from John F. Kennedy University. Dr. McLain has worked in a variety of settings and with several different populations including children with autism spectrum disorders and developmental disabilities, emerging adults, depression, anxiety, self-esteem and identity issues, addictions, and relationship issues.  She has a decade of experience treating eating disorders with special interest in college students, clients in midlife, co-occurring substance use, understanding and applying research to clinical practice, and managing safety concerns. In addition to her role at Renfrew, she also works in private practice providing clinical supervision and serving individuals suffering with eating disorders, substance use disorders, and trauma. Dr. McLain is an active member of the American Psychological Association (APA), the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals (iaedp), is a member of the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), and is a Board Certified Telemental Heath Provider.

Jessica Berens, MS, RD, LDN, is a Senior Regional Nutrition Manager at The Renfrew Center. She received a dual-Bachelor’s degree in Food Science & Human Nutrition and Psychology from The University of Florida, and her Master of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics with a concentration in nutrition and sports from Texas Tech University. Mrs. Berens has experience working with all eating disorder presentations and specializes in Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) as well as bringing weight neutral language and goals into higher levels of care.