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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

Eating disorders are not by choice or a condition of vanity. EDs are biopsychosocial conditions which means many factors contribute to their development. Repairing your relationship with your body, food and exercise is key. Eating Disorders Eating Disorders are biopsychosocial conditions, where genetics, the social environment and psychological factors play a role in their development. Eating disorders do not discriminate on gender, age, ethnicity or socioeconomic status. They are not a condition of vanity or something someone chooses to experience. Often times eating disorders develop from a simple lifestyle change, that sparks up an unhealthy relationship with food, the body, and/or exercise. Eating disorders thrive on secrecy and are perpetuated by shame.They can lead to severe physical and emotional consequences, but understanding them is the first step toward recovery. The DSM 5 recognizes the following feeding and eating disorders: Anorexia Nervosa : Characterized by restrictive eating and an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to significant weight loss and a distorted body image. Bulimia Nervosa : Involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as vomiting or excessive exercise, to prevent weight gain. Binge Eating Disorder : Characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often accompanied by feelings of loss of control and distress. Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): An extreme avoidance of certain foods or food groups, leading to inadequate nutrition without a focus on body image. Pica: Persistent eating of non-nutritive, non-food substances (e.g., dirt, paper). Rumination Disorder: Repeated regurgitation of food, which may be re-chewed, re-swallowed, or spit out. Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED): Eating disorders that do not meet the criteria for the above categories but still cause significant distress or impairment. Although not recognized by the DSM 5 Orthorexia has been a term coined for an unhealthy obsession with eating foods that one considers healthy, leading to dietary restrictions and anxiety around food choices. It is often associated with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Causes and Risk Factors Eating disorders can arise from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Common risk factors include: Societal pressures and media portrayal of body image Trauma or stressful life events Family history of eating disorders or mental health issues High self-criticism and perfectionism Signs and Symptoms Recognizing the signs of eating disorders is crucial for early intervention. Common symptoms include: Significant weight changes Preoccupation with food, dieting, and body image Withdrawal from social activities Changes in mood and behavior Preoccupation with body shape and weight Constantly thinking about food Eating past the point of feeling full Counting calories Cutting out certain foods Exercising past the point of exhausting Avoiding wearing certain types of clothing. People who experience ARFID tend to have a different subset of symptoms where the avoidance of food is due to taste, texture, having had a negative experience of eating, or low interest in food. Impact on Health Eating disorders can lead to severe physical and psychological health issues, including malnutrition, heart problems, and increased risk of anxiety and depression. It’s important to address these disorders promptly to minimize long-term consequences. Support and Treatment Options Recovery from an eating disorder is possible with the right support. Treatment may include: • Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , family-based therapy, and group therapy can be effective. • Nutritional Counseling : Working with a dietitian to establish a balanced and healthy relationship with food. • Medical Intervention: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to address underlying mental health issues. Getting Help If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, seeking help is crucial. Support can come from healthcare professionals, support groups , and hotlines . Remember, you are not alone in this journey. If one or more of the above symptoms resonates with you, please know that help is available. We provide evidenced-based treatment for eating disorders, we are Health At Every Size (HAES) aligned clinicians and me practice from diet-rejecting an intuitive eating approach to treatment. Your treatment is tailored to meet your own individual needs. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

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

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

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. Generalized Anxiety Disorder Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Treatment Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition marked by persistent and excessive worry about various areas of life—such as work, relationships, finances, health, or daily responsibilities. Unlike occasional stress or concern, GAD causes worry that is difficult to control and often out of proportion to the actual situation. I ndividuals with GAD often experience symptoms such as excessive thoughts about what could go wrong or avoiding certain tasks or events that could bring unwanted consequences. Anxiety can also manifest as physical symptoms and can include numbness or tingling, feeling hot, feeling unable to relax, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and experiencing a racing heart. People with GAD have a difficulty with managing their worries and how their body feels because of them. Common Symptoms of GAD: Constant worry or anxiety about many different areas of life Restlessness or feeling on edge Fatigue or feeling easily tired Difficulty concentrating or mind “going blank” Muscle tension or body aches Trouble sleeping (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep) Irritability or mood changes These symptoms often last for six months or more and can interfere with work, relationships, and overall well-being. What Causes Generalized Anxiety Disorder? There’s no single cause of GAD, but it often results from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, including: Family history of anxiety or mental health disorders Chronic stress or trauma Personality traits such as perfectionism or low tolerance for uncertainty Brain chemistry and nervous system sensitivity Generalized Anxiety Disorder Treatment at Compassionate Healing Institute We specialize in evidence-based therapy for GAD, providing compassionate, individualized care to help you manage anxiety and improve your quality of life. Our Anxiety Treatment Approaches Include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Learn how to challenge unhelpful thought patterns and shift anxiety-producing behaviors. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Develop flexibility in responding to anxious thoughts and focus on your values. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): For clients with overlapping OCD or phobia symptoms, or eating disorders. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Build awareness and stay grounded in the present moment. We work collaboratively to tailor treatment to your specific needs, age, and goals, whether you’re seeking help for the first time or returning to therapy after a setback. Why Choose Us for Generalized Anxiety Treatment at Compassionate Healing Institute? Specialized in Anxiety and OCD-Related Disorders Licensed, Compassionate clinicians Supportive, Inclusive Environment for All Backgrounds Telehealth and In-Person Appointments Available Serving Coral Springs, Parkland, Coconut Creek, and South Florida We understand how exhausting chronic anxiety can be—and we are here to help you find clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Take the First Step Toward Healing Living with anxiety doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken—it means you’re human. And healing is absolutely possible. At Compassionate Healing Institute in Coral Springs FL, we walk with you every step of the way. Should you recognize some of these traits within yourself, know that you are not alone and solutions are available. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the first line of treatment for GAD that focuses on reevaluating unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors that can contribute to anxiety. 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 online therapy group incorporates mindfulness practice with exposure and response prevention. Participants will learn to co-exist with thoughts without judgement and increase present focused awareness while practicing intuitive and mindful eating principles. OCD and Eating Disorders Therapy Group This is an online group through secure video conferencing Coming soon! Registration is open to residents of all PSYPACT states! Group Leaders: Paije Nobles, MS, RDN Lissette Cortes, Psy.D. CEDS About our group OCD and Eating Disorders therapy group will launch this Spring. This group is open to adults in all participating PSYPACT states and meets online through secure video conferencing starting in December. This group incorporates exposure and response prevention principles as well as mindfulness and intuitive eating. Early bird cost is $80 per session when registering before November 15th. After November 15th the cost is $100 per session. Group participants will: Practice exposure and response prevention principles to face their food fears. Achieve a more peaceful relationship with food and their body. Learn mindful and intuitive eating skills they can use to make choices around food and eating 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

Discover what to expect for your loved ones care at Compassionate Healing Institute, including a clear step-by-step treatment process, evidence-based care, ongoing evaluation, and individualized support designed to help your loved one make meaningful, lasting progress. For Families and Loved Ones What to Expect at Compassionate Healing Institute What Families & Loved Ones Can Expect at Compassionate Healing Institute Supporting Your Loved One’s Healing Journey When someone you care about is struggling with OCD, or an eating disorder, anxiety or a related condition it can be hard to know how to help. At Compassionate Healing Institute (CHI), we believe that healing doesn’t happen in isolation — families and loved ones play an essential role in recovery. Our team partners with you to ensure your loved one receives compassionate, safe, and evidence-based care while you also feel supported and informed along the way. Step-by-Step: The Family Experience at CHI Step 1: Free 15-Minute Phone Consultation Many families begin with a free consultation call to discuss concerns, ask questions, and learn about our approach. This call helps us: Understand what your loved one has been experiencing Offer guidance on whether traditional outpatient or intensive treatment is appropriate Review fees and payment options Explain how family members can be involved during treatment If CHI is a good fit, we’ll schedule an intake evaluation for your loved one, or for yourself to support your loved one. If a higher level of care (such as residential or PHP) is needed, we’ll connect you with trusted programs in South Florida to ensure your loved one’s safety and continuity of care. Step 2: Intake Evaluation The intake evaluation is an in-depth session (usually 60 minutes) where our clinician meets with you or your loved one — and in many cases, for the treatment of your loved one, you will be invited to give input when appropriate. During this stage, we: Learn about symptoms, behaviors, and life stressors Gather relevant history (medical, emotional, nutritional) Identify safety or medical concerns that may require higher-level monitoring Begin to outline treatment goals Families are encouraged to share observations and concerns, especially around eating, anxiety, or compulsive behaviors. Your insights often help us build a fuller picture of what’s happening day-to-day. Step 3: Treatment Planning & Family Communication Once the assessment is complete, we’ll meet with your loved one (and, if appropriate, family members) to review the plan of care. This may include: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and anxiety Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and family-based interventions SPACE -Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions SPACE for ARFID- Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions for Avoidance Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Nutrition therapy or meal support with our registered dietitian Neuropsychological Assessments We discuss frequency, structure, and how you can best support progress at home. Families are always welcome to ask questions and participate in education sessions to better understand OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders. Step 4: Active Treatment Phase As your loved one begins therapy, our team focuses on helping them face fears, rebuild self-supportive behaviors, and increase their confidence while expanding their lives. You can expect: Regular updates and check-ins (with your loved one’s consent) Guidance on how to respond to anxiety, compulsions, or eating-related distress at home Access to family sessions focused on boundaries, communication, and relapse prevention Our goal is to empower you with practical tools to support recovery, not to take on the role of therapist, but to create an environment that reinforces healing. Step 5: Coordination & Ongoing Support Sometimes clients need additional structure or medical support. If your loved one’s symptoms become more severe, we’ll collaborate with you and coordinate referrals to trusted IOP, PHP, or residential programs. When care is stepped down, we stay involved to maintain smooth transitions and continued progress. Step 6: Review, Taper, and Aftercare As treatment goals are met, sessions may taper from weekly to bi-weekly or monthly check-ins. We help families and clients create a long-term plan that includes: Relapse-prevention strategies Clear communication tools Resources for continued community or nutritional support Your involvement during this phase helps your loved one maintain accountability and confidence in their recovery journey. How We Support Families At CHI, we view family engagement as a key part of treatment success. We offer: Education about OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety Guidance on supporting recovery without reinforcing symptoms Family therapy or coaching sessions to address communication and boundaries Resource recommendations for parents and partners (books, workshops, community support groups) We believe that when families are informed and supported, outcomes improve — and everyone feels more hopeful. What We Ask of Families & Loved Ones Approach your loved one’s recovery with patience and compassion Keep communication open with the treatment team (with client consent) Avoid judgment or “fixing” — your presence and empathy are often the most powerful support Take care of yourself, too — recovery can be stressful, and your well-being matters If You’re Worried About Safety If you notice signs of medical instability, rapid weight loss, self-harm thoughts, or other red flags, please contact us immediately or reach out to emergency services. Our clinicians will help assess risk and ensure your loved one receives the appropriate level of care as quickly as possible. Ready to Learn More? If your loved one is struggling with OCD, an eating disorder, anxiety or a related condition, Compassionate Healing Institute can help. We’ll guide your family through every step with understanding, transparency, and care. 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

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

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

CFT focuses on helping individuals develop and nurture compassion for themselves and others. This psychological approach enhances exposure and response prevention treatment for OCD and eating disorders. Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) is a psychological approach developed by Dr. Paul Gilbert that focuses on helping individuals develop and nurture compassion for themselves and others. Rooted in evolutionary psychology, attachment theory, and neuroscience, CFT is particularly effective for individuals who struggle with high levels of shame, self-criticism, or trauma. It works by activating the brain’s soothing system—helping people feel safer, calmer, and more connected. CFT teaches that we all have three emotional systems: the threat system (which protects us), the drive system (which motivates us), and the soothing system (which helps us feel safe and cared for). In many individuals, especially those with a history of trauma or self-criticism, the soothing system may be underdeveloped. CFT helps to balance these systems by cultivating self-compassion as a way to reduce inner conflict and build emotional resilience. Understanding Self-Compassion Self-compassion is the practice of responding to ourselves with kindness, understanding, and patience—especially in moments of pain or failure. Rather than judging ourselves harshly or trying to “tough it out,” self-compassion encourages us to acknowledge our struggles as part of the shared human experience. Key elements of self-compassion include: Self-kindness instead of self-judgment Common humanity instead of isolation Mindfulness instead of over-identification with negative thoughts By learning to treat ourselves with the same care we’d offer a friend, we create the emotional safety necessary for growth and healing. Applying CFT to OCD and Eating Disorders CFT offers a powerful framework for addressing the emotional roots of both Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Eating Disorders. People with OCD often experience intense shame and fear around their intrusive thoughts and compulsions, leading to a cycle of self-criticism and anxiety. Similarly, individuals struggling with eating disorders frequently contend with deep-seated feelings of inadequacy, body shame, and a harsh internal critic. By fostering self-compassion, CFT helps individuals shift from punitive self-monitoring to a more understanding and supportive inner dialogue. In the treatment of OCD, CFT can reduce the fear and shame associated with intrusive thoughts, making space for more effective behavioral interventions. In eating disorder treatment, cultivating compassion helps to challenge the belief that worth is tied to appearance or control, and it opens the door to more balanced, nurturing behaviors around food and body image. Through consistent practice, CFT empowers individuals to move away from cycles of shame and avoidance, and toward a more peaceful, connected, and self-accepting way of being. You don’t have to face this alone. Self-compassion focused therapy can help you gently navigate the challenges of OCD or an eating disorder with kindness and care. Reach out today—we’re here to support your healing. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

Join Compassionate Healing Institute’s therapy groups in South Florida for support with eating disorders, OCD, ADHD, and anxiety—connect, learn, and heal in a safe, compassionate environment. Group Therapy and Support Groups Group therapy can be an essential part of psychological well being and a great addition to any treatment plan. Group therapy differs from individual therapy in that in group sessions, individuals share their thoughts, emotions and experiences with others who may provide feedback, connection, and validation. Group therapy can be a powerful and valuable venue for healing. Free Monthly OCD and Eating Disorders Adult Support Group This group meets every second Tuesday of the month, online from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m EST. This group is open to adults with OCD and eating disorders and meets online through Zoom. For more information and to sign up, please email info@healocded.com Learn More! Free Monthly Adult OCD Support Group This group meets every last Tuesday of the month, online from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m EST. This group is open to adults with OCD and OC-spectrum conditions and meets online through Zoom. For more information and to sign up, please email info@healocded.com Learn More! Free Monthly ARFID Support Group CHI offers a monthly virtual support group for adults navigating Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), food fears, sensory sensitivities, and anxiety around eating. This supportive and neurodiversity-affirming group is led by eating disorder dietitian Paije Nobles, MS, RDN and provides a compassionate space for connection, encouragement, and recovery-focused discussion. Group Details: • Third Thursday of every month • 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EST • Virtual via Zoom • Led by Paije Nobles, MS, RDN Ideal for adults seeking ARFID support, eating disorder recovery support, and guidance around expanding flexibility with food in a supportive environment. Contact us to sign up! Supervision and Consultation Group for Clinicians Treating OCD and Eating Disorders This is an ongoing group online over zoom. 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 Learn More! OCD EXPOSURE PROCESS AND GOAL SETTING GROUP This is an in person group starting in August! This group meets on Mondays for a total of 8 weeks at our office in Coral Springs, FL. This group is open to adults who experience OCD and are participating in individual ERP therapy Learn More! OCD and Eating Disorders Therapy Group Stay tuned for our Fall Edition! This group is open to adults residing in all participating PSYPACT states and meets online through secure video conferencing. Learn to face and challenge your food fears through exposure and response prevention principles as well as intuitive and mindful eating skills. Learn More! Call 561 679 1139 Email info@healocded.com Follow

Join our virtual Adult ARFID Support Group led by Paije Nobles, MS, RDN. Monthly Zoom support for adults struggling with food fears, sensory sensitivities, restrictive eating, and ARFID recovery. Free Monthly ARFID Support Group Third Thursday of the month online on Zoom 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. EST Welcome! Looking for support for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) as an adult? Compassionate Healing Institute offers a virtual Adult ARFID Support Group designed to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space for adults navigating food fears, sensory sensitivities, anxiety around eating, limited variety, and challenges related to nourishment and daily functioning. Whether you are newly exploring an ARFID diagnosis or actively working toward recovery, this group offers a space to feel understood and less alone while connecting with others who share similar experiences. Information: This monthly ARFID support group is led by eating disorder dietitian Paije Nobles, MS, RDN , and focuses on connection, psychoeducation, encouragement, and recovery-oriented support for adults experiencing ARFID symptoms. Group discussions may include topics such as fear foods, nutrition challenges, social eating anxiety, sensory issues, meal planning, exposure-based approaches, and building flexibility with food in a compassionate and neurodiversity-affirming environment. Group details • Who: Adults (18+) experiencing ARFID symptoms or food-related anxiety • When: Third Thursday of every month • Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EST • Where: Virtual via Zoom • Facilitator: Paije Nobles, MS, RDN To Sign Up 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