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Discover what to expect at Compassionate Healing Institute, including a clear step-by-step treatment process, evidence-based care, ongoing evaluation, and individualized support designed to help you make meaningful, lasting progress. For Invididuals What to Expect at Compassionate Healing Institute Compassionate, Evidence-Based Care for Anxiety, OCD, and Eating Disorders in South Florida and all PsyPact States Taking the first step toward help can feel overwhelming — but at Compassionate Healing Institute (CHI), we’re here to make it easier. Our process is designed to help you feel informed, supported, and confident every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking help for OCD, an eating disorder, anxiety or related conditions you’ll receive specialized, integrated care grounded in compassion and clinical excellence. Step-by-Step Process: Your Treatment Journey Step 1: Free 15-Minute Phone Consultation Your journey begins with a complimentary phone consultation with one of our clinicians or intake specialists. This call is a safe, no-pressure opportunity to: Share a brief overview of what’s been going on Learn more about our approach to OCD, anxiety, and eating disorder treatment Ask questions about therapy options, or fees Determine whether CHI is the right fit for your needs We’ll also discuss logistics like scheduling, clinician availability, and whether a higher level of care (such as an intensive outpatient or residential program) might be more appropriate based on your current symptoms. If we’re a good fit, we’ll schedule your Intake Evaluation and send you secure forms to complete online. If your needs fall outside our scope, we’ll connect you with trusted referrals in the South Florida area — because our goal is to get you the right care, even if it’s not with us. Step 2: Comprehensive Intake Evaluation Your first in-person or telehealth session is a 60-minute comprehensive assessment focused on understanding you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. During this evaluation, your clinician will: Explore your history with any presenting concerns including anxiety, OCD, and/or eating or body-related concerns Ask about your daily routines, triggers, and goals for recovery Review your medical and nutrition background (if applicable) Identify any urgent safety or medical concerns that may require medical or nutritional stabilization Use brief symptom questionnaires to help measure progress over time This stage helps us determine whether our traditional outpatient or intensive program best fits your needs. If appropriate, you may also meet with our Registered Dietitian, who specializes in disordered eating and food-related anxiety, for a parallel nutritional assessment. By the end of your intake process, you’ll have a clear understanding of your treatment recommendations, next steps, and a personalized plan to move forward safely and effectively. Step 3: Collaborative Treatment Planning Once initial assessment is complete, your clinician will meet with you to deliver a personalized treatment plan and recommendations for treatment structure tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll: Identify specific therapy goals and milestones Discuss recommended modalities, such as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or nutrition therapy Clarify session frequency, estimated length of treatment, and any between-session work You’ll leave this step knowing exactly what to expect — and that your care plan is collaborative, flexible, and centered around you. Step 4: Active Treatment Phase This is where progress takes root. You’ll meet with your therapist weekly (or multiple times per week for intensive clients) to build new skills, face fears, and practice recovery-oriented behaviors. Treatment may include: ERP sessions to reduce anxiety-driven rituals, compulsions and avoidance CBT tools to reframe thinking errors or self-critical thoughts Meal support and nutrition exposure work to rebuild confidence with food Values-based work and relapse prevention strategies to sustain long-term recovery If multiple providers are involved in your care, we’ll coordinate closely to ensure a consistent and integrated approach. Step 5: Adjusting Intensity When Needed Recovery isn’t linear, and that’s okay. Treatment at Compassionate Healing Institute includes ongoing evaluation, allowing your clinician to monitor progress and adjust the treatment structure as needed. These adjustments may include modifying your current plan or, when appropriate, recommending a higher level of care to best support your safety, recovery, and long-term success. If you’re making consistent progress, we may gradually reduce frequency to foster independence and long-term confidence. Step 6: Review, Taper, and Aftercare As your goals are met, your clinician will help you develop a maintenance plan to prevent relapse and sustain progress. You’ll receive: A summary of your progress and key coping tools Guidance for managing future stressors or triggers Optional check-in or “booster” sessions for continued support Our goal is for you to leave treatment feeling empowered, grounded, and confident in your ability to maintain the changes you’ve worked so hard for. What You Can Expect from Us Evidence-based, compassionate treatment tailored to your needs Transparent, collaborative communication Coordination with dietitians, physicians, or psychiatrists when appropriate A safe, inclusive space that honors your pace and personal goals What We Ask of You Bring openness and curiosity — you don’t have to be “ready,” just willing Practice honesty about what’s working and what feels hard Try your best with exposures and between-session practice Let us know if something feels off — we’ll adjust together Preparing for Your First Appointment Complete your pre-intake paperwork If available, share recent lab results or medical notes Write down any questions or goals you’d like to discuss Come as you are — nervous, hopeful, or unsure — we’ll meet you there Ready to Begin? If you’re looking for OCD treatment, eating disorder therapy, or anxiety counseling in South Florida, Compassionate Healing Institute is here to help you take the next step toward healing. Serving Coral Springs, Boca Raton, greater South Florida and online in all PsyPact states. 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

Mindfulness Based Therapy cultivates a present-focused non-judgemental awareness of the self and others. It focuses on helping individuals better manage their thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness-Based Therapy Mindfulness involves a state of active attention rooted in the present moment where one observes their thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. The individual is encouraged to maintain an attitude of openness and curiosity to whatever arises in their experience. Popular techniques that emphasize the practice of mindfulness include activities such as breath work, meditation, guided imagery and body scan exercises. While mindfulness is rooted in Buddhist teachings and traditions, it has been integrated within a variety of therapeutic approaches that are widely used, namely Mindfulness-Based Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Research has indicated that mindfulness approaches such as MBT can be effective for helping individuals who have experienced ongoing depression or multiple episodes. It has also been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders and bipolar disorder. Similarly, DBT treatment and application of mindfulness has been known to be effective in treating individuals with emotional regulation difficulties, post-traumatic stress disorder, self-harming behaviors, eating disorders, and depression and anxiety. MBT understands that thoughts and emotions are interconnected and encourages the use of mindfulness to gain awareness of one’s internal narrative and feelings, then using this awareness to challenge your assumptions with more objective alternatives. In treatment, mindfulness is used as a foundation to live a life that is more skillful and intentional rather than one that is driven by impulse or emotion. It emphasizes observing, describing, and participating in the moment in a nonjudgmental way while applying present-focused awareness. Mindfulness is an expansive and useful concept that serves as a foundation for a variety of approaches and techniques. It is important to work with your therapist to gain understandings on which mindfulness-based treatment would be most appropriate for your presenting concerns. Regardless of what you may experiencing, mindfulness is an effective tool and philosophy that can better guide you to living a more fulfilling and peaceful way of being. 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

At CHI we offer a FREE Montlhy OCD and Eating Disorders support group for adults, the last Tuesday of every month online via Zoom. This group is available for adults reciding across the Unites States and the globe. Free Monthly OCD and Eating Disorders Support Group Second Tuesday of the month online on Zoom 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Information We are happy to announce our free clinician led, monthly OCD and eating disorders support group! This group is intended for adult individuals, with OCD and eating disorders and/or body image concerns. It is led by Cognitive Behavioral Therapists and is based on Exposure and Response Prevention Principles. To receive Log-in information: Please send us an email at info@healocded.com to receive a registration link for the group. You will need to register each month. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

This in-person therapy group incorporates exposure and response prevention practices, goal setting, process and increases accountability. Participants will practice ERP tools learned in individual therapy in a supportive and collaborative environment. OCD EXPOSURE PROCESS AND GOAL SETTING GROUP This is an in-person group that meets at our Coral Springs office. Begins April 7th, and meets on Mondays 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Registration now open! Group Leaders: Michael Sheffield, Psy.D. Lissette Cortes, Psy.D. CEDS About our group Our OCD group will launch April 7th. This group meets on Mondays for a total of 8 weeks at office in our Coral Springs, FL. Open to adults who experience OCD and are participating in individual ERP therapy . Processing, goal setting, planning and execution of ERP work. Connect with others on the recovery journey in a supportive environment. Increase accountability. This is an ongoing group, with a commitment for 8 week attendance. For more information and to sign up: Please contact us at info@healocded.com or (561 ) 679-1139 Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

Although we all experience anxiety to a degree, anxiety disorders can be debilitating. Cognitive-behavioral interventions help the individual better cope with their anxiety, and decrease avoidance of anxiety triggers. Anxiety Disorders Anxiety is a normal human response to stress, but when it becomes persistent, overwhelming, or disruptive, it may indicate an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health concerns, affecting individuals across the lifespan. At Compassionate Healing Institute, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help clients manage anxiety, regain control, and improve quality of life. We understand that anxiety can affect every aspect of daily functioning—from work, school, and relationships to sleep, concentration, and physical health. Our clinicians work collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs, experiences, and goals. Understanding Anxiety Disorders Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness that can interfere with daily life. While everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, anxiety disorders are more intense, persistent, and often accompanied by physical symptoms. Common lived experiences of anxiety include: Racing thoughts or difficulty concentrating Feeling tense, restless, or on edge Avoiding situations due to fear or worry Physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, or stomach upset Sleep difficulties or fatigue Irritability, self-doubt, or feeling “stuck” in worry loops Types of Anxiety Disorders Anxiety disorders can present in many forms. At CHI, we provide assessment and treatment for a range of anxiety disorders, including: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Persistent, excessive worry about everyday events or responsibilities Difficulty controlling worry or calming racing thoughts Physical symptoms: muscle tension, headaches, stomach discomfort Lived experience: Feeling “on edge” constantly, second-guessing decisions Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia) Intense fear of social situations or being judged by others Avoidance of public speaking, social gatherings, or new relationships Lived experience: Feeling extreme self-conscious, experiencing panic in social interactions Panic Disorder Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks—sudden surges of intense fear Physical symptoms: heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness Lived experience: Feeling like you are “losing control” or having a medical emergency during an attack Specific Phobias Intense fear of specific objects or situations (heights, animals, medical procedures) Avoidance behavior that interferes with daily life Lived experience: Feeling paralyzed by fear even when you know it is unlikely to cause harm Separation Anxiety Disorder Excessive fear of being apart from loved ones Worry about safety or wellbeing of caregivers Lived experience: Difficulty leaving home, school, or routines due to fear of separation Selective Mutism (in children and adolescents) Consistent failure to speak in specific social situations despite speaking in other settings Often linked to social anxiety or extreme fear of embarrassment How Anxiety Is Treated at CHI At Compassionate Healing Institute, we provide evidence-based, individualized treatment to help clients manage anxiety and build resilience. Treatment may include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): Gradual, guided exposure to feared situations Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Developing values-based coping strategies Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Supporting emotional regulation Skills-based interventions: Improving problem-solving, organization, and coping skills Family and caregiver support (for children and adolescents) Collaboration with medical providers when medication may support treatment Our approach is personalized, flexible, and designed to meet each client where they are—whether anxiety has been present for years or has recently emerged. Our Commitment at Compassionate Healing Institute Our clinicians provide compassionate, personalized care for children, teens, and adults. We focus on helping clients: Understand the roots and patterns of anxiety Develop coping skills and emotional regulation strategies Build confidence and resilience Improve relationships, school, work, and daily functioning We empower clients to regain control, reduce distress, and live meaningful lives aligned with their values. Begin Anxiety Treatment at CHI If anxiety is affecting your life or your child’s daily functioning, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Contact Compassionate Healing Institute to schedule an initial evaluation and learn how our evidence-based, individualized treatment can support lasting change. 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

Supervision and consultation for clinicians who work with and are interested in supervision and consultation regarding the treatment of co-occurring eating disorders and OCD, clinicians of all levels of expertise and clinicians who are interested in increasing their skill set of Exposure and Response Prevention. Supervision and Consultation Group for Clinicians Treating OCD and Eating Disorders This is an ongoing group, and participants are encouraged to sign up for one or more group blocks. Open to dietitians and therapists of all levels of expertise who treat OCD, and/or eating disorders and this diagnostic overlap. Group Leaders: Group Blocks: Coming soon! Email us for more information. About our group We welcome clinicians all throughout the states. Participants are encouraged to sign up for one more more group blocks. Each group will be kept to a maximum of 6 clinicians. The cost per group block is $400. Open to dietitians and therapists: who work with and are interested in supervision and consultation regarding the treatment of co-occurring eating disorders and OCD . of all levels of expertise. who are interested in increasing their skill set of Exposure and Response Prevention. For more information and to sign up: Please contact us at info@healocded.com or (561) 679 -1139

Dr. Michael Sheffield is a licensed psychologist in New York specilizing in OCD, anxiety and eating disorders. He provides services to adolesents and adults through telehealth. 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

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ERP is the gold standard of OCD treatment. It focuses on building an ability to lean into discomfort and anxiety, while building a more adaptive response to such an experience. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Gold-Standard Treatment for OCD and Anxiety Disorders Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the most effective, evidence-based treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other anxiety-related conditions. It helps individuals break free from the cycle of obsessions and compulsions by gradually facing their fears and learning to tolerate uncertainty without engaging in rituals. At Compassionate Healing Institute, we specialize in ERP therapy, offering compassionate, structured, and expert support to help you reclaim your life from OCD and anxiety. What Is Exposure and Response Prevention? ERP therapy is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) specifically designed to treat OCD. The “exposure” part involves intentionally confronting feared thoughts, situations, or triggers. The “response prevention” part means resisting the urge to engage in compulsions or avoidance behaviors. By repeatedly facing these fears in a supportive environment, your brain learns that the anxiety is tolerable—and often temporary—without needing to perform rituals. ERP Helps You: Reduce the power of obsessive thoughts Stop compulsive behaviors and mental rituals Tolerate anxiety and uncertainty without avoidance Regain freedom in daily life, relationships, and routines ERP is not about overwhelming you—it’s about building your confidence and tolerance step-by-step. Conditions Treated with ERP While ERP is most well-known for treating OCD, it’s also effective for several other anxiety-related conditions, including: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Social anxiety disorder Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) Panic disorder and agoraphobia Health anxiety and illness anxiety disorder Specific phobias (e.g., contamination, heights, driving) Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) Eating disorders, especially when compulsive rituals or avoidance are present Our clinicians tailor ERP to your unique symptoms and fears, whether they involve physical actions, mental compulsions, or avoidance behaviors. How ERP Works ERP therapy follows a structured yet flexible process, designed to support you while gently challenging your fears. 1. Assessment and Psychoeducation We begin by understanding your symptoms, triggers, and how OCD or anxiety shows up in your life. You’ll learn how the OCD cycle works and how ERP interrupts it. 2. Creating a Hierarchy We collaboratively develop an exposure hierarchy—a personalized list of feared situations ranked from least to most distressing. 3. Gradual Exposure You’ll begin to face fears, starting with lower-level exposures. These might involve thoughts, images, situations, or actions you typically avoid. Each step is manageable and done at your pace. 4. Response Prevention During exposures, you’ll resist compulsions or safety behaviors—whether that’s seeking reassurance, checking, washing, or mental reviewing. This teaches your brain that you can tolerate discomfort and that feared outcomes are unlikely to occur. 5. Building Tolerance and Confidence With repetition, anxiety decreases, and you gain freedom from the exhausting cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Is ERP Difficult? ERP can be challenging—but it’s also incredibly empowering and rewarding. Many people worry it will be too intense, but it’s always collaborative and paced according to your readiness and willingness. Our clinicians approach ERP collaboratively to help you: Feel supported every step of the way Practice exposures in session or with guidance between sessions Learn to manage setbacks with self-compassion Build skills you’ll use for life Clients often say ERP feels hard at first but quickly becomes the most rewarding part of their recovery. ERP for Children, Teens, and Adults We provide ERP therapy for all ages. Treatment is adapted to be developmentally appropriate and can include family involvement when helpful. Whether you’re a teen experiencing intrusive thoughts, or an adult managing OCD for years, ERP can help you break free from the cycle. ERP + Other Treatments ERP can be used on its own or in combination with: CBT for broader thought restructuring Mindfulness practices to enhance distress tolerance Medication (in collaboration with psychiatrists) Family therapy for increased support and understanding Meal support and exposures for clients with eating disorders and OCD overlap We offer a fully integrated approach that meets your unique needs. Benefits of ERP Therapy Proven effectiveness for OCD and anxiety Teaches lifelong coping tools Reduces reliance on rituals and safety behaviors Improves quality of life and emotional resilience Increases confidence and autonomy Backed by decades of research and clinical success Ready to Break Free from OCD or Anxiety? If you’re feeling stuck in rituals, overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts, or trapped by anxiety, Exposure and Response Prevention can help you take your life back. We offer ERP therapy in person and via secure telehealth sessions. Whether you’re seeking individual therapy or looking to integrate ERP into an existing treatment plan, we’re here to support your journey. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or learn more about how ERP therapy can support your healing and growth. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

Through food exposure, individuals face their food fears, lessening avoidance and improving the quality of their lives. Food Exposure When we struggle in our relationship with food it can greatly impact our quality of life. Individuals often experience restriction, compulsions, avoidance, checking and engaging in safety behaviors because of having a fear around a certain food, or food aversion. Food fears and food avoidance are often significant components of eating disorders, OCD and phobias. Food fears and food avoidance can be the result of: Having had a previous negative experience with food An adverse reaction to the experience of eating itself Concerns around the possible consequences of eating Negative sensory experiences such as the feel of textures, the taste, and smells of food, the sound of eating or the sight of food Strict rules around the experience of eating Concerns with the impact that food can have on the body Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is an evidence-based treatment for the treatment of food fears and food avoidance. Through food exposure we are able to teach the brain new information by having the individual confront feared stimuli without engaging in compulsive behaviors. By engaging in response prevention, individuals can develop confidence in their ability to tolerate discomfort and uncertainty. Challenging your food fears and healing your relationship with food, will help you reconnect with your values and aspirations improving your quality of life. The Benefits of Working with an OCD and Eating Disorders Dietitian Nutritionist Optimize your energy, mood, and sleep by learning to enjoy all foods that you love without depriving yourself. Cultivate awareness, curiosity and compassion for yourself, behaviors, patterns, and thoughts regarding food choices and amounts. Develop a personalized and flexible nutrition plan to optimize your overall well-being. This may include meal and snack timing and suggestions, hunger and fullness awareness, how to increase satisfaction and pleasure from food, gentle nutrition information that can be used as a guideline for making food decisions, how to cultivate a positive relationship with food and your body. https://calendly.com/chiclinicalteam/15-minute-callback 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

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