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.

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, 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

Dr. Michael Sheffield is a licensed psychologist in Florida, NY and PsyPact specilizing in OCD, anxiety and eating disorders, autism, tics and Tourette's. He provides services to adolesents and adults. Michael Sheffield Psy.D. Dr. Sheffield is a Florida and New York licensed psychologist and PsyPact® provider treating adolescents, teens, and adults in all participating PSYPACT® states . He specializes in OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety disorders and co-occurring diagnoses including autism, mood disorders, and personality disorders. He is also a CBIT trained provider and treats patients with tics/Tourette’s and BFRBs. He is also trained in SPACE for parenting interventions. Dr. Sheffield works from a CBT perspective and incorporates ERP, ACT, and DBT into his treatment. PsyPact Provider Professional Member of the IOCDF About Dr. Sheffield I am a Florida and New York licensed psychologist and work from a CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) framework and incorporate exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) interventions. I provide individual therapy, group therapy, and parent training. My specialties include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and extensive comorbidities including mood disorders, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and personality disorders. My approach to treatment is collaborative with an emphasis on forming a strong therapeutic alliance with my patients. I aim to help them foster a deeper understanding into what factors are maintaining and reinforcing the behaviors they would like to change and to identify and implement behaviors that are more in line with living a life dictated by their values rather than fear. An overarching goal of treatment is to help my patients identify the thoughts and feelings that are driving maladaptive behaviors and to work together to build new behavioral patterns that can result in increased well-being and life satisfaction. I have received extensive training in the treatment of OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders and have worked with individuals at every level of care from outpatient treatment to residential treatment. I have completed advanced training in the treatment of body-focused repetitive behaviors (e.g., skin picking, hair pulling) via the TLC Foundation and am a graduate of their Virtual Professional Training Institute (VPTI). I have also completed advanced training in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) via Behavioral Tech. As someone with lived experience, helping individuals overcome a life ruled by OCD and anxiety is extremely personal to me. I am also extremely passionate about working with individuals suffering from co-occurring OCD and eating disorders and am on the leadership board of the OCD and Eating Disorders Special Interest Group through IOCDF. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you! Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

Panic attacks often seem to come out of nowhere. This creates a big alert response in efforts to prevent the next one from coming around, which often recreates panic. Therapy then focuses on breaking this cycle of panic. Panic Disorder Panic Disorder Are you experiencing sudden, intense fear or discomfort—often without warning or clear reason? You may be struggling with Panic Disorder, a treatable anxiety condition that can deeply affect daily life. At Compassionate Healing Institute in Coral Springs, Florida, we offer specialized therapy for panic disorder and panic attacks, helping you understand what’s happening in your body and mind—so you can take back control and feel safe again. We also offer telehealth sessions across all PsyPact states and NY. What Is Panic Disorder? Panic Disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by repeated, unexpected panic attacks—intense episodes of fear that peak within minutes. These attacks often feel overwhelming and can mimic serious medical issues, like heart attacks, leading many people to seek emergency care. To be diagnosed with panic disorder, people usually: Experience frequent panic attacks Worry persistently about having another attack Avoid situations or places where they fear a panic attack might occur This pattern can lead to avoidance, isolation, and significant disruption in work, school, or relationships. Common Symptoms of Panic Attacks Panic attacks come on suddenly and may include: Racing or pounding heartbeat Shortness of breath or hyperventilation Chest pain or tightness Dizziness or lightheadedness Trembling or shaking Sweating Nausea or stomach discomfort Feelings of unreality or detachment Fear of losing control, going crazy, or dying Even though panic attacks are not dangerous, they feel incredibly real and frightening. Many people live in fear of the next episode—this is where therapy can truly help. What Causes Panic Disorder? While there’s no single cause, panic disorder may develop due to: Genetics or family history of anxiety History of trauma or significant stress Chronic worry or underlying anxiety conditions Brain chemistry or a sensitive nervous system At Compassionate Healing Institute, we take a holistic and personalized approach, working with you to understand the underlying causes and build effective tools to manage and reduce symptoms. Effective Therapy for Panic Disorder We specialize in evidence-based treatment for panic disorder that empowers you to reduce panic symptoms, challenge fear-based thinking, and return to the activities you once avoided. Evidence-Based Treatment Includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Recognize and change the thought patterns that trigger panic and avoidance. Interoceptive Exposure Therapy: Safely and gradually expose you to panic sensations to reduce fear and avoidance. Mindfulness: Ground yourself in the present and build nervous system resilience. Psychoeducation & Coping Skills: Understand the body’s fear response and learn how to interrupt the cycle of panic. Whether panic has just started or has been interfering in your life for years, our trained clinicians can help you regain peace of mind. Why Choose Compassionate Healing Institute? Anxiety & OCD Specialists with advanced training Empowering, individualized care for teens, adults, and families Inclusive and affirming therapy for all backgrounds In-person and online therapy options Conveniently located in Coral Springs, FL, serving Parkland, Coconut Creek, and surrounding areas Reclaim Your Life from Panic You are not broken—and you are not alone. With the right support, panic disorder is treatable. Our clinicians are here to guide you toward calm, confidence, and freedom! https://calendly.com/chiclinicalteam/15-minute-callback Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call