It’s completely normal to want to eat in a way that supports your health. But in today’s digital world, that intention can quickly turn into overwhelm. With constant messages about what you should and shouldn’t be eating, it can become hard to know what to trust or what actually applies to you. For individuals with anxiety or OCD, this environment can intensify the pressure to “get it right.” What starts as a desire to be healthy can quickly shift into overthinking, rigid food rules, and a growing sense of uncertainty around everyday eating decisions. When Nutrition Advice Starts to Work Against You Much of the nutrition content online is designed to capture attention and not support mental health. It often relies on fear, urgency, and black-and-white thinking. For those with OCD or anxiety , this can intensify: Reassurance-seeking (e.g., Googling, label-checking) Obsessive thoughts about food or “clean eating” Avoidance of certain foods Guilt or anxiety after eating Over time, eating becomes less about nourishment and more about managing fear. The Link Between OCD, Anxiety, and Food OCD is driven by a need for certainty and responsibility. Around food, this can sound like: “What if this harms me?” “I need to eat perfectly.” “I should avoid anything ‘bad.’” But nutrition isn’t an area where certainty exists. The more rigid the rules, the stronger anxiety tends to become. Why “Perfect Eating” Isn’t the Goal At Compassionate Healing Institute, we emphasize flexibility over perfection. There is no single “correct” way to eat. Health is built over time—not through one perfect choice. In fact, rigid food rules often lead to: Undernourishment Increased food preoccupation Disconnection from body cues Less trust in your body A More Supportive Approach Healing involves learning to relate to food, and your thoughts about food, differently. Through ERP , nutrition therapy , and compassionate care, we help individuals: Reduce anxiety around eating Interrupt reassurance-seeking Reintroduce avoided foods Reconnect with internal cues Build a more flexible relationship with food This is especially important for those with OCD-related food fears, ARFID, or anxiety-driven restriction. You Don’t Need Certainty to Nourish Yourself Recovery means learning you can care for your body without complete certainty. You are allowed to: Make “good enough” decisions Eat without overanalyzing Tolerate uncertainty Prioritize nourishment over fear The goal isn’t to eliminate anxious thoughts but to stop letting them drive your behavior. Food can become less about control and more about care. Read Our Article for Practical Strategies If this resonates with you, I invite you to explore an in-depth guide I co-authored with Katie Jeffrey, MS, RDN, CSSD, LDN, where we outline five practical, evidence-based strategies  to help you navigate nutrition information without reinforcing anxiety or OCD. Read the full article: How to Navigate Nutrition Information in the Media When You Have Anxiety and OCD In this article, you’ll learn how to: Evaluate nutrition information without getting pulled into fear Recognize language that fuels anxiety and OCD Step out of reassurance-seeking patterns Make more flexible, “good enough” food decisions Begin rebuilding trust with your body

When you hear the phrase intuitive eating, what comes to mind? How does someone actually eat “intuitively”? Let’s start by breaking it down. Intuitive means “based on what one feels to be true, even without conscious reasoning; instinctive.” In other words, it’s something we already know how to do, it’s built in. Eating intuitively simply means listening to your body’s natural cues: hunger, fullness, and even cravings. At one point in your life, you were already a pro at this. Think back to infants and toddlers, they eat when they’re hungry and stop when they’re full. They don’t count calories, track meals, or stress about the “right” foods. They’re the perfect example of intuitive eaters. So what happened? Diet culture. Somewhere along the way, many of us were taught to ignore or override those natural signals. We’ve been told when to eat, what to eat, and how much to eat, often in direct conflict with what our bodies are asking for. Over time, that noise drowns out our instincts, and we start believing that someone else knows our body better than we do. Another common fear is that if we let go of food rules and eat intuitively, we’ll lose “control” and only want so-called “unhealthy” foods. But let’s pause here, why do we trust our bodies to breathe for us, to pump blood, to do thousands of incredible things every single day, yet assume it’s not capable of knowing how to nourish itself? Before dieting existed, intuitive eating was simply how people ate. So how do we relearn it today? The first step is rebuilding trust with your body. If you’ve ignored hunger cues for a long time, they may feel faint or even nonexistent. That’s why having a bit of structure at first can actually help. For example, try eating breakfast within an hour of waking, then aim for a meal or snack every 2.5–3 hours. It might feel awkward at the beginning, but with consistency, your body will start sending clear signals again. It’s also important to know that if you’ve restricted certain foods in the past, it’s normal to feel out of control when you allow them again. Sometimes that looks like overeating or binging. I know that can feel scary, but the key is not to respond with more restriction, that only keeps the cycle going. Instead, just move on to your next meal or snack. Over time, those foods lose their power, and you’ll find balance. Intuitive eating isn’t just about physical health, it’s about mental health and overall quality of life. Food is fuel, yes, but it’s also joy, comfort, culture, and connection. By ditching diet rules and rebuilding trust with your body, you free up energy for the things that truly matter. Your body is smarter than diet culture has led you to believe. If you’re willing to listen, it already knows exactly what you need.

When struggling with OCD or an eating disorder, it’s easy to become trapped in cycles of self-criticism, shame, and guilt. These mental health conditions often come with intrusive thoughts, compulsions, or disordered behaviors that feel deeply distressing—and in response, many people harshly judge themselves. This is where self-compassion becomes a powerful, healing force.   Self-compassion isn’t about ignoring problems or excusing harmful behavior. Instead, it’s about treating yourself with the same kindness, understanding, and patience you’d offer a loved one. Research has shown that cultivating self-compassion can reduce anxiety, support emotional regulation, and improve treatment outcomes for both OCD and eating disorders.   Why Self-Compassion Helps Interrupts the shame spiral: Shame often fuels both OCD and eating disorders. Self-compassion breaks the cycle by replacing harsh judgment with understanding. Reduces avoidance: When we’re kinder to ourselves, we’re more likely to face fears or triggers head-on—essential in exposure-based therapies. Builds resilience: Compassion fosters a sense of worth that isn’t defined by thoughts, symptoms, or appearance.   Tips for Cultivating Self-Compassion Practice mindful awareness: Notice your thoughts without judgment. Label them—“That’s an intrusive thought” or “That’s my inner critic”—and gently redirect your focus. Write a compassionate letter to yourself: Speak to yourself the way you would to a struggling friend. Use supportive statements: “I’m doing the best I can” or “It’s okay to feel this way”   Healing is rarely linear, and it’s never perfect. But when you respond to setbacks with compassion instead of criticism, you create space for growth, understanding, and lasting change.

Paije is a Florida licensed registered dietitian who specializes in eating disorders and takes an “all foods fit” approach. She specializes in anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. She treats individuals navigating co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, borderline personality disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and anxiety disorders. She is passionate about helping people improve their relationship with food and their bodies. Paije Nobles MS RDN Paije is a Florida licensed registered dietitian who specializes in eating disorders and takes an “all foods fit” approach to care. She specializes in the treatment of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. She also treats individuals navigating co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, borderline personality disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and anxiety disorders. Paije is passionate about helping people improve their relationship with food and their bodies. Paije is able to provide telehealth services in AK, AZ, CO, CT, HI, ID, IN, MI, MT, NH, NJ, NM, UT, VA, WI, WY. Paije offers in person sessions in Coral Springs and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida . Member of the international association of eating disorders professionals About Paije I am a licensed registered dietitian based in Florida, specializing in eating disorder treatment across all ages and genders. I take a weight inclusive, all foods fit approach to nutrition and recovery, and I’m passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. My goal is to support clients in nourishing their bodies without shame, guilt, or fear. I have experience working with individuals with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. I have also has worked extensively with individuals navigating co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, borderline personality disorder, Obsessive Compulsive disorder and anxiety disorders. My clients range from the age of 11 years old to older adulthood. I’ve worked across all levels of care, from inpatient to outpatient, and currently co-facilitate eating disorder recovery support groups through the The National Alliance for Eating Disorders. Whether someone is just starting their recovery journey or has been navigating it for years, I aim to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental support every step of the way. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

Compassionate Healing Institute, LLC offers expert therapy, for OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders in Coral Springs Florida and PsyPact s tates with compassionate, evidence-based care through Exposure and Response Prevention and CBT. Compassionate Healing Institute OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER• EATING DISORDERS • ANXIETY Compassionate Care. Evidence-Based Healing. Lasting Freedom Ready to get started? Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation (561) 679 - 1139 Click Here to Schedule a Call OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER EATING DISORDERS ANXIETY NUTRITION THERAPY EXPOSURE & RESPONSE PREVENTION PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING OCD and Eating Disorder Treatment in Coral Springs and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida Find us on the map ! Click here to schedule a call Contact us at info@healocded.com Compassionate Healing Institute, LLC Offers Exposure Therapy Near You We proudly serve the following cities Broward County Coral Springs Coconut Creek Cooper City Dania Beach Davie Deerfield Beach Ft. Lauderdale Hallandale Beach Hillsboro Beach Hollywood Lauderdale Lakes Lauderdale By-The-Sea Lauderhill Lighthouse Point Martgate Miramar North Lauderdale Oakland Park Parkland Pembroke Park Pembroke Pines Plantation Pompano Beach Riverwalk Ft. Lauderdale Southwest Ranches Sunrise Tamarac Weston Wilton Manors Palm Beach County Boca Raton Boynton Beach Delray Beach Lakeworth West Palm Beach Certified Eating Disorders Specialist PsyPact Providers Professional Members of the IOCDF We provide online therapy across the U.S. through PSYPACT ® Our licensed psychologists have obtained an Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) from the PSYPACT® Commission. This means that they can provide telehealth services to residents of all PSYPACT participating states which include AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY, plus DC and the Northern Mariana Islands. To check if your state is eligible click here: PSYPACT ® States Lissette Cortes PsyD CEDS Co-Author: The OCD workbook for Food and Eating Fears Amazon New Harbinger Press Good Reads Barnes and Nobles and wherever books are sold! NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consult (561) 679-1139 Before we get you scheduled, we want to make sure you are aware that our clinic does not take insurance, and our clinicians are out of network providers and that prospective patients must be at least 7 years of age. * Click here to schedule a call Taking the first step toward healing is both brave and important. We’re glad you’re here. At Compassionate Healing Institute LLC, we provide specialized psychological and nutritional care for OCD , ARFID , eating disorders , anxiety and related conditions using evidence-based treatments and comprehensive evaluations tailored to your unique needs. Our mission is to create a compassionate, empowering space where individuals can build resilience and achieve lasting mental wellness. We are dedicated to providing affirming, culturally competent care for all individuals, including those who are LGBTQ+ and from diverse backgrounds, honoring every person’s story and identity. About - Recovery begins with understanding and awareness - Through national YouTube panels and interviews, CHI clinicians share real stories and expert insights on overcoming OCD, eating disorders, food fears, and anxiety, providing guidance and support for those seeking lasting recovery. Join our expert team as they discuss evidence-based treatments, ERP therapy, and integrated care in national conversations and educational videos. February 27, 2025 ANAD Day of Conversation ANAD and the IOCDF explored the connection between eating disorders and OCD, highlighting key similarities, differences, and treatment insights. Dr. Lissette Cortes and Katie Jeffrey, RDN, shared their expertise on integrated care and recovery for these co-occurring conditions. February 19, 2025 IOCDF Lunch and Learn Clinician and IOCDF Advocate Chris Trondsen, MS, AMFT, shares professional clinical insights and education around OCD, anxiety, and related disorders in this lunchtime stream for all audiences. This episode focused on eating disorders awareness. Dr. Lissette Cortes and Katie Jeffrey shared about their expertise on feeding and eating disorders and OCD. February 22, 2023 IOCDF Lunch and Learn Clinicians and IOCDF Advocates Chris Trondsen, MS, AMFT, and Liz McIngvale, PhD, share professional clinical insights and education around OCD, anxiety, and related disorders in this lunchtime stream for all audiences. Dr. Lissette Cortes and Emmy Weiss shared about their expertise on feeding and eating disorders and OCD. January 11, 2023 IOCDF Research Roundtable Hosts Jonathan Abramowitz, PhD, and IOCDF Advocate Kyle King pick a hot topic in OCD literature to dissect with expert researchers in the field. Dr. Lissette Cortes , Katie Jeffrey and Dr. Jonathan Hoffman were invited to speak on eating disorders and OCD. October 15, 2025 Untangling the connection: ARFID and OCD Join us in collaboration with the Compassionate Healing Institute to answer your questions about ARFID and OCD. Whether you're a loved one, a provider, or someone personally navigating these mental health conditions, this is your space to find answers, resources, and support. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

Compassionate Healing Institute offers SPACE therapy for ARFID, a parent-based approach that reduces anxiety, improves mealtimes, and supports lasting eating flexibility. SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) can create significant distress for children, teens, and their families. When mealtimes feel tense, limited food variety interferes with growth or daily functioning, or a child’s eating becomes a central focus of family life, caregivers often feel overwhelmed and unsure how to help. At Compassionate Healing Institute, we offer SPACE for ARFID, a parent-based treatment designed to support families in reducing eating-related anxiety and expanding flexibility around food—without requiring the child to participate directly in therapy. SPACE empowers caregivers to make meaningful, lasting changes that support their child’s relationship with food and decrease the patterns that inadvertently keep ARFID symptoms in place. What Is SPACE for ARFID? SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) is an evidence-based, parent-focused intervention originally developed for anxiety and OCD. Its principles translate powerfully to ARFID because this feeding disorder often involves: Anxiety about textures, tastes, or sensory discomfort Fear-based avoidance related to choking, vomiting, or medical events Rigid eating patterns that become reinforced over time Family accommodations that unintentionally maintain avoidance Through a structured therapeutic process, SPACE helps caregivers reduce accommodations, increase support, and create a calmer, more effective approach to helping their child move forward with eating. How SPACE Helps With ARFID SPACE treatment focuses on changing the family environment around eating—not forcing the child to confront feared foods. By adjusting their responses, caregivers become the primary agents of change. SPACE for ARFID helps caregivers: Understand the role of anxiety and avoidance in ARFID Reduce accommodations that increase dependence or limit food variety Respond to food refusal or distress with confidence and clarity Introduce supportive statements that encourage progress Create a consistent, manageable structure around mealtimes Support gradual flexibility without pressure or conflict This approach can complement nutrition counseling, medical monitoring, or additional therapies as needed. What to Expect in SPACE Treatment at CHI Initial Assessment Caregivers meet with one of our trained SPACE clinicians to review the child’s eating patterns, sensory concerns, medical or nutritional implications, and the family’s current strategies. We identify accommodations, avoidance patterns, and primary goals. Ongoing Parent Sessions Parents attend weekly sessions without the child present. During these sessions, caregivers learn and practice: Supportive communication Reducing specific accommodations Structuring mealtime routines Managing distress or resistance Celebrating small steps in flexibility Clinicians offer tailored guidance based on each family’s needs and dynamics. Collaboration With CHI Specialists When clinically appropriate, families may also work with a: Dietitian for nutritional adequacy and growth monitoring Feeding specialist for sensory-based guidance Psychologist for co-occurring psychological concerns present for the child such as anxiety or OCD. Families receive a cohesive, integrated plan that supports both emotional and nutritional well-being. Is SPACE for ARFID Right for My Family? SPACE for ARFID may be a good fit if: Your child experiences intense anxiety or distress around eating Meals have become conflictual, tense, or highly structured Food variety is significantly limited Family adjustments (e.g., separate meals, special preparations) have increased over time Your child is hesitant or unwilling to participate in traditional therapy You want an effective treatment that does not rely on child readiness SPACE allows caregivers to make progress even when a child feels overwhelmed by direct therapeutic involvement. Our Commitment at CHI At Compassionate Healing Institute, we understand that ARFID affects the entire family system. Our clinicians provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment to help caregivers feel empowered, confident, and hopeful. Through SPACE for ARFID, families gain practical tools and learn strategies that encourage growth, reduce anxiety, and restore calmer mealtimes. Begin SPACE for ARFID at CHI If your child is struggling with ARFID, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule an initial assessment and learn how SPACE for ARFID can help your family thrive. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call