A Transdiagnostic,Modular Approach to Treating Pica in Young Girl

Abstract

Objective:

Pica is the persistent consumption of nonnutritive, nonfood substances. Despite the multitude of adverse complications associated with this condition, there is no gold standard treatment for pica in youth. This case study offers the first empirical investigation into the implementation of an empirically supported modular, transdiagnostic treatment—the MATCH-ADTC: Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, or Conduct Problems—to treat pica and behavior challenges in a 10-year-old, White girl with Triple X Syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and trauma history.

Method:

We describe our assessment, formulation, and application of the MATCH program to target pica and behavior problems. Pre- and posttreatment symptom ratings (Child Behavior Checklist; CBCL), weekly ratings of pica and behavior problems (Behavior Rating Scale), and client satisfaction with treatment (Client Satisfaction Questionnaire) were collected at pre-, post-, and 6-months after treatment.

Results:

After 26 sessions, clinically significant improvements were observed in the client’s pica and behavior problems from baseline to posttreatment. Score differences in parent report on the CBCL from pre- to posttreatment indicated decreased levels of symptoms in all subscales reported. Six-month follow-up showed that pica behaviors remained at near-zero rates, and improvements in child behavior were sustained.

Conclusions:

This case study offers preliminary support for the use of MATCH, a modular, transdiagnostic treatment for treating pica and comorbidities in youth. A detailed treatment approach for clinician use is provided.

Implications for Impact Statement

This case study offers the first empirical support for a modular and transdiagnostic treatment to treat youth pica and comorbidities. The Modular Approach to Therapy for Children (MATCH) treatment offers a comprehensive program that clinicians can use to tailor treatment. We offer clinicians a treatment plan for youth pica and emphasize the importance of parent involvement in youth treatment.

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