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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.

September is National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. I want to take this opportunity to encourage you to consider the impact that can be made when we normalize saying something is wrong or encouraging someone to seek help. I often recall a comic strip a friend shared with me, where people responded to physical injuries like they would typically respond to mental health struggles. One character in the comic showed his friend his broken limb, and his friend responded with "have you tried not thinking about it?" This comic sparked an important question for me. If we wouldn't hesitate to encourage our friend seek medical help if they were physically ill, why don't we treat mental illness in the same way? I understand that stigma around mental illness is very much present in our culture. Because of this there can be a certain level of "shame" in admitting there is something that hurts or needs attention. But again, would we be ashamed to say my broken foot hurts? Why as a society do we treat this differently? On a more positive note, we have most recently seen a shift in the younger generation taking more of a stand through social media and normalizing seeking help (kudos to our Gen-Z-ers). I really believe this will have a great impact for the future of mental health, because saying “I need help with my mental health” should be as acceptable as saying “I need help with my physical health.” If you are feeling depressed or in distress, please remember you are not alone. It's important to bring awareness to the impact that normalizing this dialogue can make on someone’s life. Suicide awareness and prevention begin with speaking out about and listening to someone’s struggles. Sometimes the most difficult thing to do is to speak about our vulnerabilities. However, we also know this is the most important factor in building connections and a possible avenue to saving a life. Having lost a dear friend to suicide, this initiative really hits home.   I remember feeling very upset about not having had a clear understanding of the kind of pain they were going through before they passed. Depression, distress, mental illness, should not be so foreign to us. Perhaps it is because it may not make sense to us, that we need to learn more about it. I invite you to take this opportunity this month of September to get more familiar with mental illness, and together we can make a difference in diminishing suicide rates and increasing mental well-being.   To get you started here is a list of common signs of suicide to watch out: Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use Statements about having no reason for living or no sense of purpose in life Experiencing anxiety, agitation, difficulty sleeping or sleeping all the time Stating that they feel trapped or hopeless. Withdrawal from friends, family and society Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking Drastic mood changes ·       Giving away possessions ·       Tying up loose ends, like organizing personal papers or paying off debts ·       Saying goodbye to friends and family   Here is a list of wonderful organizations that are active on this initiative:   ·      https://floridasuicideprevention.org/   ·      https://nspw.afsp.org/     ·      https://nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Suicide-Prevention-Awareness-Month-(SPAM)?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-PPslviC-gIVHcLCBB1-lww-EAAYAyAAEgI5e_D_BwE     ·      https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/index.html     Also the number to dial is 988 . This is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline   Lastly, here is the comic I was referring to in case you were curious:   https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2014/11/12/mental-illness-advice-physical-illness_n_6144398.html

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, 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, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WV, WI, and WY. 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 4 years of age. * Click here to schedule a call Taking the first step toward healing is both brave and important—and we’re glad you’re here. At Compassionate Healing Institute LLC, we provide specialized psychological and nutritional care for OCD , 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

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 also able to provide telehealth services in AK, AZ, CO, CT, HI, ID, IN, MI, MT, NH, NJ, NM, UT, VA, WI, WY. 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 provides comprehensive ADHD evaluation and treatment for children, teens, and adults. Improve focus, regulation, and daily functioning. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, organization, impulse control, emotional regulation, and daily functioning. While commonly associated with children, ADHD impacts people across the lifespan—and many individuals aren’t diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood. Understanding ADHD ADHD is more than difficulty focusing. It often affects how a person organizes their day, manages responsibilities, completes tasks, and experiences their emotions. Because symptoms can vary widely, many people feel misunderstood or attribute their struggles to personality flaws rather than an underlying neurological difference. ADHD commonly includes challenges in three core areas: Inattention Difficulty with sustained focus, organization, planning, and follow-through Hyperactivity High internal or external energy, restlessness, or difficulty slowing down Impulsivity Quick reactions, interruptions, difficulty pausing, or acting before thinking These patterns can impact school, work, relationships, and self-esteem. Many people with ADHD describe feeling “behind,” overwhelmed, or inconsistent—even when they are trying very hard. Common Symptoms and Lived Experiences ADHD can look different for every individual. Some people are outwardly energetic and talkative; others appear quiet but feel unfocused or overstimulated internally. Below are common experiences many clients relate to: Inattention Struggling to stay focused during conversations, meetings, or lectures Forgetting steps in a task or losing track of time Frequently misplacing items (keys, phone, documents) Starting multiple projects but having difficulty finishing them Feeling mentally “foggy” or overwhelmed by complex tasks Difficulty organizing responsibilities or managing deadlines Hyperactivity or Restlessness Feeling constantly “on the go” or unable to unwind Trouble sitting through meals, classes, or long meetings Talking quickly or excessively A strong need for movement, fidgeting, or pacing Feeling mentally “revved up” even when physically still Impulsivity Interrupting others unintentionally Making quick decisions without considering long-term impact Difficulty resisting distractions or urges Speaking or acting before thinking Overspending, overcommitting, or emotional reactivity Many individuals with ADHD also notice: Feeling easily frustrated or overwhelmed Heightened sensitivity to rejection (often called RSD) Difficulty regulating emotions Feeling misunderstood by peers, coworkers, or partners Chronic guilt about unfinished tasks or perceived “inconsistency” These experiences are common—and treatable. ADHD is not a lack of effort or motivation. It is a neurological difference that benefits from support, structure, and tailored strategies. How ADHD Is Diagnosed at CHI At Compassionate Healing Institute, diagnosis begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation, which may include: Psychological and clinical interviews Standardized ADHD assessments through psychological evaluations Review of developmental, academic, or work history Neuropsychological testing when needed Collaboration with medical providers if medication is part of treatment This thorough approach ensures accurate diagnosis and allows us to differentiate ADHD from conditions with overlapping symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, or sleep difficulties. ADHD in Children and Teens For children and adolescents, ADHD may show up as: Difficulty staying seated or focused in class Emotional outbursts or low frustration tolerance Forgetting assignments or losing school materials Sensitivity to noise or overstimulation Social challenges or difficulty waiting their turn Struggles with transitions, routines, or organization Parents often receive guidance and support to help their child thrive both at home and in school. ADHD in Adults Many adults with ADHD describe long-standing patterns such as: Chronic procrastination Difficulty managing work responsibilities Trouble keeping up with emails, bills, or time-sensitive tasks Feeling overstimulated in certain environments Challenges with planning, routines, or household management Relationship strain related to communication or follow-through With appropriate support, adults can develop effective strategies that enhance daily functioning, confidence, and overall well-being. Our Commitment at Compassionate Healing Institute At Compassionate Healing Institute, we provide evidence-based, compassionate care for individuals seeking clarity, support, and meaningful strategies to navigate ADHD. We recognize that ADHD shows up differently for everyone, and our clinicians work collaboratively to create treatment plans that are personalized, validating, and aligned with each person’s strengths and goals. We believe individuals with ADHD are resourceful, resilient, and capable of meaningful progress with the right tools. Our goal is to help clients understand their neurobiology, build effective systems, and create a life that aligns with their values, without shame or self-blame. Our clinicians provide compassionate, personalized care so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of self. Begin ADHD Treatment at CHI If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, we are here to help. Our team can guide you through assessment, diagnosis, and individualized treatment to support lasting change. Contact us today to schedule an initial evaluation and learn more about ADHD services at Compassionate Healing Institute. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call