Autism and Eating Disorders with Dr Yoshi Steele

Tuesday 10 February 2026, 7.30pm-9.30pm

At Chandlers Ford Methodist Church,  SO53 2GJ and livestreamed on Zoom

FREE to HACP members, £10 to non-members (payable on the door if attending in person, online if attending via Zoom)

Talk Summary: Autism and Eating Disorders

This talk explores the complex intersection between autism and eating disorders, with a particular focus on how typical treatment models may not fully meet the needs of autistic individuals. We begin by outlining the standard pathway for eating disorder treatment, including the involvement of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), and consider why these approaches may not always be effective or accessible for autistic people.

I will draw on current research to highlight the prevalence, presentation, and specific challenges faced by autistic individuals with eating disorders. This includes exploring how traits such as sensory sensitivities, a preference for routine and predictability, and differences in social communication can shape both the development and experience of disordered eating.

The talk will also address related conditions such as Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), which is particularly relevant in the autistic population. I’ll discuss how ARFID and other non-typical eating presentations can be misinterpreted or overlooked within conventional diagnostic and treatment frameworks.

Throughout the session, I will encourage attendees to reflect on how to support autistic individuals using a neurodiversity-affirming approach—moving beyond deficit-based models to consider more flexible, individualised, and inclusive ways of working that acknowledge and respect neurodivergent experiences.

Dr Yoshi Steele, speaker for Autism and Eating Disorders

About the Speaker

My name is Dr Yoshi Steele. I have a doctorate in psychology and over 10 years’ experience working in neurodiversity across all ages, from nursery-aged children to adults, including individuals with a range of communication styles.

I have worked with CAMHS, local authorities, and individuals with eating disorders, adapting treatments to align with neurodiversity-affirming research. My doctoral work explored how autistic individuals are perceived within the criminal justice system.

I am committed to challenging deficit-based models and supporting professionals to adopt inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming approaches in their work.