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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 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

Explore expert videos on OCD and eating disorder recovery. Get practical tips, guidance, and support to help you or your loved ones on the healing journey. Video Library Welcome to our video library! Here, you’ll find expert insights, practical tips, and supportive resources on OCD and eating disorder recovery. Our videos are designed to educate, inspire, and guide you or your loved ones on the journey to healing—helping you feel informed, empowered, and less alone. info@healocded.com 561-679-1139 All Videos Sign in All Videos Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... All Categories All Categories Entertainment Nonprofits & Activism People & Blogs Now Playing 00:24 Play Video Autism Masking: The Invisible Struggle & Burnout Explained #shorts Now Playing 00:54 Play Video Empower Your Child: Beyond Reassurance to Confidence Building #shorts

Effective, evidence-based CBIT and HRT therapy for tics, Tourette Syndrome, hair pulling, skin picking, and other BFRBs. Learn to manage symptoms and regain control. Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions for tics (CBIT) and Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT) for BFRBs Evidence-Based Treatment for Tics, Tourette Syndrome, and Compulsive Habits Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) and Habit Reversal Training (HRT) are gold-standard, research-supported therapies for individuals living with tics, Tourette Syndrome, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) like trichotillomania (hair pulling), dermatillomania (skin picking), and nail biting. These therapies help individuals gain control over involuntary movements and repetitive behaviors—without judgment or shame—by teaching practical skills to reduce symptoms and increase awareness. At Compassionate Healing Institute, we offer specialized CBIT and HRT services for children, teens, and adults in a supportive and personalized environment. What Is CBIT? CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics) is a structured, evidence-based treatment for tics and Tourette Syndrome. CBIT builds on Habit Reversal Training (HRT) and includes multiple components that work together to reduce tic severity and improve quality of life. CBIT focuses on: Awareness training: Becoming more aware of the urge or trigger before a tic occurs Competing response training: Learning and practicing a behavior that is incompatible with the tic Function-based intervention: Identifying situations that worsen tics and developing strategies to modify them Relaxation and stress-management tools: Helping regulate emotional and physical triggers CBIT empowers individuals to gain better control over their tics without relying on medication. What Is HRT? Habit Reversal Training (HRT) is a behavioral therapy originally developed to treat tics and now widely used to treat Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) such as: Trichotillomania (hair pulling) Excoriation Disorder (skin picking) Nail biting and cheek chewing Thumb sucking or knuckle cracking HRT includes three core components: Awareness training: Recognizing the situations, emotions, or body sensations that trigger the behavior Competing response training: Practicing a substitute behavior that prevents the urge from becoming an action Motivation and support: Building insight, accountability, and family or peer involvement when helpful These strategies help individuals interrupt habitual behaviors and replace them with healthier coping mechanisms. Conditions We Treat with CBIT & HRT Our clinicians specialize in the treatment of: Tics and Tourette Syndrome Provisional tic disorder Trichotillomania (hair pulling disorder) Excoriation disorder (skin picking disorder) Nail biting and other BFRBs Complex motor and vocal tics Tic-related anxiety or distress Co-occurring conditions such as OCD, ADHD, and anxiety disorders We work with children, teens, and adults, and our treatment plans are tailored to developmental stage, symptom severity, and personal goals. How CBIT and HRT Work Our treatment approach is structured, collaborative, and evidence-based. Therapy usually includes: 1. Assessment and Goal Setting We start with a thorough assessment of the tic or BFRB behaviors, their triggers, and impact. We’ll also explore co-occurring symptoms, such as anxiety or compulsions, to ensure holistic care. 2. Awareness and Tracking You’ll learn to recognize the early signs—known as premonitory urges or emotional triggers—that occur before the behavior, increasing your ability to respond rather than react. 3. Competing Responses We’ll teach and practice competing responses—specific physical actions that are incompatible with the tic or BFRB. These responses are practiced regularly and in real-life situations. 4. Environmental and Emotional Support We address the role of stress, environment, and habits in maintaining behaviors. Family members or caregivers may be involved to reinforce progress and reduce judgment or shame. 5. Skill Building and Relapse Prevention As symptoms improve, we focus on generalizing skills across settings and preparing for long-term success, even during periods of stress or transition. Why Choose CBIT and HRT? These treatments are: Backed by decades of research Non-medication-based approaches with lasting results Suitable for children, teens, and adults Highly customizable to individual needs and lifestyles Effective in in-person or telehealth formats Unlike traditional talk therapy, CBIT and HRT focus on behavioral change, skill development, and empowerment—not just insight. Are CBIT and HRT Effective? Yes—CBIT and HRT are considered first-line treatments by organizations like the Tourette Association of America and The Trichotillomania Learning Center (TLC Foundation for BFRBs). Many people experience: Significant reduction in tics or repetitive behaviors Improved emotional regulation and body awareness Better concentration and reduced shame or social withdrawal Increased confidence and quality of life When delivered by trained professionals, CBIT and HRT often lead to meaningful improvement in just 8–12 sessions. Supportive, Judgment-Free Care At Compassionate Healing Institute, we understand that tics and BFRBs are not just habits—they’re complex, often misunderstood conditions. We meet you with empathy, compassion, clinical expertise, and a plan tailored to your needs and goals. Start CBIT or HRT Therapy Today If you or your loved one is struggling with tics or repetitive behaviors, you don’t have to manage it alone. CBIT and HRT therapy can help you take control—gently, step by step. We offer in-person sessions and secure telehealth appointments. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing symptoms for years, our team is here to support your progress. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about CBIT and HRT therapy. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call