SEARCH RESULTS

Licensed Psychologists Lissette Cortes PsyD CEDS, Michael Sheffield PsyD, PsyD, Registered and Licensed Dietitian Katie Jeffrey MS, RDN, CSSD, MB-EAT-QI, LDN. Psychological services, neuropsychological serviced and nutritional services for the treatment of OCD, eating disorders, anxiety and related conditions in Coral Springs, FL. About Us Compassionate Healing Institute (CHI) helps children and adults of all genders find freedom from OCD, eating disorders, and related challenges through evidence-based, compassionate care. Our expert team integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and nutrition therapy to promote lasting healing. At CHI we also pride ourselves in training our clinicians to deliver specialized, high-quality care. Whether you meet with us in our Coral Springs office, through telehealth, or in your community for out-of-office exposures, our mission remains the same: to guide each person toward healing with compassion, expertise, and hope. Our Story It's not every day that like-minded passionate individuals find each other, and in each other they find a common purpose. Compassionate Healing Institute was founded on a common goal of specialized clinical care, based on evidence-based interventions and self-compassion practices in treatment. Our approach to treatment is based on our shared values of authenticity, light hearted practice, learning, growing, connection and compassion. Meet The Team Lissette Cortes Psy.D. CEDS she/her CHI Founder and Director of Clinical Services Licensed Psychologist Certified Eating Disorders Specialist PsyPact® Provider Michael Sheffield Psy.D. he/him CHI Co-Founder and Director of Clinical Programs Licensed Psychologist PsyPact® Provider Isaac Tourgeman Ph.D. he/him Licensed Neuropsychologist Certified Brain Injury Specialist Paije Nobles she/her MS, RDN Licensed and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Licensed in FL 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

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. Mindfulness for OCD Therapy Group This is an online group through secure video conferencing Coming soon! Registration is open to residents of all PSYPACT states! Group Leaders: Katie Jeffrey, MS, RDN, CSSD, MB-EAT-QI, LDN Lissette Cortes, Psy.D. CEDS Michael Sheffield, Psy.D. About our group Our Mindfulness for OCD therapy group will launch this winter. This group is open to adults in all participating PSYPACT states and meets online through secure video conferencing. This group incorporates mindfulness practice with principles of exposure and response prevention. Group participants will: Learn to shift their relationship with your thoughts, feelings and physical sensations. Cultivate greater present focused awareness of your experiences. Learn to coexist with your thoughts without judgement. For more information and to sign up: Please contact us at info@compassionateinst.com for more information or to sign up!

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

SPACE treatment is a structured, evidence-based intervention designed to help parents support their children with anxiety or (OCD). It is unique in that it focuses exclusively on parental behaviors and interactions. Parents are the primary participants in the treatment, even though the intervention targets the child’s anxiety or OCD. Through this treatment parents learn to communicate empathy and confidence in their child‘s ability to manage anxiety through a non-confrontational approach. SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) SPACE treatment is a structured, evidence-based intervention designed to help parents support their children with anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It was developed by Dr. Eli Lebowitz at the Yale Child Study Center and is unique in that it focuses exclusively on parental behaviors and interactions rather than direct therapy with the child. Many parents of children with anxiety or OCD may feel unsure about how to respond to their child’s distress, often engaging in accommodating behaviors to ease their child’s discomfort. While well-intentioned, these accommodations can unintentionally reinforce the child’s anxiety, making it harder for them to develop the coping skills they need to thrive. What is SPACE Treatment? SPACE is unique because it focuses entirely on empowering parents and caregivers, rather than directly involving the child in therapy. Through SPACE, parents learn: How to reduce accommodating behaviors that maintain anxiety or OCD. Ways to set clear and supportive boundaries. Strategies to communicate confidence and encouragement to their child. Techniques to address their own feelings of guilt, fear, or uncertainty related to their child’s struggles. By making targeted changes in their own responses, parents can help create an environment where their child feels safe to face challenges, build resilience, and reduce anxiety symptoms. Why Choose SPACE? Research has shown that SPACE is as effective as traditional child-focused therapy in reducing anxiety and OCD symptoms. It also helps strengthen the parent-child relationship by fostering trust and open communication. This approach is especially helpful for families where a child may be unwilling to participate in therapy or when parents want to take a more active role in the treatment process. How SPACE Treatment Works Our trained SPACE providers work closely with parents in a supportive and collaborative process. Treatment typically involves 12-15 weekly sessions where caregivers will: 1. Identify specific accommodations they’re making for their child’s anxiety or OCD. 2. Learn alternative supportive responses that encourage independence and growth. 3. Practice implementing these strategies, with guidance and feedback from the therapist. Parents often report feeling empowered, confident, and more connected to their child after completing the SPACE program. Is SPACE Right for Your Family? If your family is navigating the challenges of childhood anxiety or OCD, SPACE treatment could be the perfect fit for you. This compassionate and practical approach not only helps children overcome their struggles but also equips parents with lifelong tools to support their child’s mental health. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Let us support you in creating a path to peace and resilience for your child and your family. At CHI, our trained clinicians are here to help your family thrive. If you’d like to learn more about SPACE or schedule a consultation, please contact us. 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 offers SPACE therapy for ARFID, a parent-based approach that reduces anxiety, improves mealtimes, and supports lasting eating flexibility. SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) can create significant distress for children, teens, and their families. When mealtimes feel tense, limited food variety interferes with growth or daily functioning, or a child’s eating becomes a central focus of family life, caregivers often feel overwhelmed and unsure how to help. At Compassionate Healing Institute, we offer SPACE for ARFID, a parent-based treatment designed to support families in reducing eating-related anxiety and expanding flexibility around food—without requiring the child to participate directly in therapy. SPACE empowers caregivers to make meaningful, lasting changes that support their child’s relationship with food and decrease the patterns that inadvertently keep ARFID symptoms in place. What Is SPACE for ARFID? SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) is an evidence-based, parent-focused intervention originally developed for anxiety and OCD. Its principles translate powerfully to ARFID because this feeding disorder often involves: Anxiety about textures, tastes, or sensory discomfort Fear-based avoidance related to choking, vomiting, or medical events Rigid eating patterns that become reinforced over time Family accommodations that unintentionally maintain avoidance Through a structured therapeutic process, SPACE helps caregivers reduce accommodations, increase support, and create a calmer, more effective approach to helping their child move forward with eating. How SPACE Helps With ARFID SPACE treatment focuses on changing the family environment around eating—not forcing the child to confront feared foods. By adjusting their responses, caregivers become the primary agents of change. SPACE for ARFID helps caregivers: Understand the role of anxiety and avoidance in ARFID Reduce accommodations that increase dependence or limit food variety Respond to food refusal or distress with confidence and clarity Introduce supportive statements that encourage progress Create a consistent, manageable structure around mealtimes Support gradual flexibility without pressure or conflict This approach can complement nutrition counseling, medical monitoring, or additional therapies as needed. What to Expect in SPACE Treatment at CHI Initial Assessment Caregivers meet with one of our trained SPACE clinicians to review the child’s eating patterns, sensory concerns, medical or nutritional implications, and the family’s current strategies. We identify accommodations, avoidance patterns, and primary goals. Ongoing Parent Sessions Parents attend weekly sessions without the child present. During these sessions, caregivers learn and practice: Supportive communication Reducing specific accommodations Structuring mealtime routines Managing distress or resistance Celebrating small steps in flexibility Clinicians offer tailored guidance based on each family’s needs and dynamics. Collaboration With CHI Specialists When clinically appropriate, families may also work with a: Dietitian for nutritional adequacy and growth monitoring Feeding specialist for sensory-based guidance Psychologist for co-occurring psychological concerns present for the child such as anxiety or OCD. Families receive a cohesive, integrated plan that supports both emotional and nutritional well-being. Is SPACE for ARFID Right for My Family? SPACE for ARFID may be a good fit if: Your child experiences intense anxiety or distress around eating Meals have become conflictual, tense, or highly structured Food variety is significantly limited Family adjustments (e.g., separate meals, special preparations) have increased over time Your child is hesitant or unwilling to participate in traditional therapy You want an effective treatment that does not rely on child readiness SPACE allows caregivers to make progress even when a child feels overwhelmed by direct therapeutic involvement. Our Commitment at CHI At Compassionate Healing Institute, we understand that ARFID affects the entire family system. Our clinicians provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment to help caregivers feel empowered, confident, and hopeful. Through SPACE for ARFID, families gain practical tools and learn strategies that encourage growth, reduce anxiety, and restore calmer mealtimes. Begin SPACE for ARFID at CHI If your child is struggling with ARFID, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule an initial assessment and learn how SPACE for ARFID can help your family thrive. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

Find answers to frequently asked questions about Compassionate Healing Institute’s mental health services, including therapy for eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD in South Florida. FAQs Frequently asked questions What states do you offer services in? Our licensed psychologists have obtained an Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) from the PSYPACT® Commission. This means that they can provide telehealth services to residents of all PSYPACT® participating states which include AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, and WY. We provide in person services at our Florida location in Coral Springs. Our registered dietitian nutritionist is licensed in FL. She is also able to provide telehealth services in the following states: AK, CA, CT, FL, HI, ID, IN, MA, NC, NH, NY, OK, OR, PA, RI, TX, UT, WA, WI, WV, WY. What makes CHI different than other practices? Compassionate Healing Institute was founded on a common goal of providing specialized clinical care, based on evidence-based interventions and self-compassion practices. We take a team approach to treatment allowing us to provide a more comprehensive care model than traditional practices. We tailor our services to meet our patients where they are at and provide options from intensive treatment structures to traditional outpatient weekly sessions. We also provide customized programs for individuals stepping down from a higher level of care such as residential treatment programs or partial hospitalization programs. We are able to integrate individual, family, and group therapy, parenting support and coaching, nutrition services and neuropsychological testing, meeting each individual's unique treatment needs. Services can be delivered in person or via telehealth in Spanish or English. We also offer home visits and out of office exposure as clinically indicated. We strive to generalize treatment gains beyond the therapy room and across the individuals natural environment. Why seek treatment from a specialist? Our psychological services providers are doctoral-level clinicians which means they completed 5-6 years of graduate school training and are at the highest level of mental-health training in their profession. Beyond graduate school our clinicians sought out advanced and specialized training in evidenced-based treatments of OCD, eating disorders and anxiety disorders. This specialized training was completed through post-graduate trainings in specialty OCD clinics, national organizations (e.g. IOCDF, iaedp), consultation and supervision, certifications and seminars. Dr. Lissette Cortes is a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist through iaedp which means she completed a high level of training in the effective and collaborative treatment of feeding and eating disorders. Dr. Michael Sheffield and Dr. Lissette Cortes are CBIT trained which enables them to provide these treatment interventions and treat patients with Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. Our clinicians have a combined experienced of 32 years providing specialized treatment for these conditions. Do you accept insurance? Our OCD, eating disorders and anxiety disorders specialists do not accept insurance and are considered out of network providers. We are able to provide superbills which you can submit directly to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Some of our patients have had success with this, depending on their insurance plan. No Surprises Act & Good Faith Estimate Notice Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to inform individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a Federal health care program, or not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage both orally and in writing of their ability, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services, to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” of expected charges. • You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees. • Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business date before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service. • If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. • Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises/ (http://www.cms.gov/nosurprises/)or call 1 (800) 368-1019. Do you provide ERP treatment? Yes, our specialists are highly trained in exposure and response prevention. This is the gold standard of care for OCD, anxiety and related conditions. 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.Tourgeman is a bilingual (English and Spanish) clinical neuropsychologist and certified brain injury specialist. He specializes in the assessment of neurological conditions such as brain injury, stroke and dementia and psychiatric diagnoses is such as OCD, anxiety, ADHD, executive dysfunction and personality pathology. His clients range from 6 years of age to older adults. He uses a patient center approach focusing on helping people better understand and manage their difficulties. Isaac Tourgeman Ph.D. Dr.Tourgeman is a bilingual (English and Spanish) clinical neuropsychologist and certified brain injury specialist. He specializes in the assessment of neurological conditions such as brain injury, stroke and dementia and psychiatric diagnoses is such as OCD, anxiety, ADHD, executive dysfunction and personality pathology. His clients range from 6 years of age to older adults. He uses a patient center approach focusing on helping people better understand and manage their difficulties. About Dr. Tourgeman I am Dr. Isaac Tourgeman, Ph.D., a bilingual (English and Spanish) professional specializing in neuropsychology and certified in brain injury treatment. My educational background is anchored by a Master of Science in Psychopharmacology and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, with a focus on neuropsychology. In my academic role, I am an Associate Professor and Co-coordinator of the Neuropsychology Track for the Doctoral Program in Psychology, and I contribute as an adjunct professor in a Master’s program for Speech Pathology. In my clinical practice, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive neuropsychological services as the Director at an inpatient rehabilitation hospital. I also serve as a staff psychologist at a leading neuroscience center and participate in the neurotrauma program at a community hospital, tackling complex cases and fostering recovery. My ability to communicate in multiple languages allows me to effectively connect with a diverse array of patients and students, enhancing the support and care I deliver in my professional endeavors. As a neuropsychologist, I offer a range of assessments tailored to understand and support the unique needs of my patients. Each assessment type is selected based on the individual patient's presenting symptoms, history, and specific concerns. The results from these assessments are used to inform treatment planning, whether it’s for therapeutic interventions, educational planning, medical treatment, or to provide clarity on a diagnosis. My approach ensures that each patient receives a thorough evaluation leading to supportive and targeted interventions that enhance their overall well-being and functionality. 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, 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 Provider Professional Member of the IOCDF We provide online therapy across the U.S. through PSYPACT ® Our licensed psychologists have obtained an Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) from the PSYPACT® Commission. This means that they can provide telehealth services to residents of all PSYPACT participating states which include AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WV, WI, and WY. To check if your state is eligible click here: PSYPACT ® States 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

Learn how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps treat OCD, anxiety, eating disorders, and more. Discover effective tools to change thoughts and behaviors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Evidence-Based Therapy for Anxiety, OCD, Eating Disorders, and More Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a proven, practical, and highly effective approach for treating a wide range of mental health concerns. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, or stress-related issues, CBT offers tools that create lasting change. At Compassionate Healing Institute, we specialize in CBT therapy that helps individuals break unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthier behaviors, and improve emotional well-being—so you can live with greater clarity, balance, and confidence. What Is CBT? CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is a short- to medium-term, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that helps you understand how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected—and how to change them to feel better. In CBT, you’ll learn how to: Identify negative thinking patterns and cognitive distortions Challenge unhelpful beliefs and assumptions Develop healthier, more realistic thought habits Change behaviors that reinforce anxiety, avoidance, or depression Practice new coping strategies in daily life CBT is focused on the present and emphasizes skills and strategies that empower you beyond the therapy room. What Can CBT Help With? CBT is one of the most widely researched therapies and is considered the gold standard for treating: Anxiety disorders (including GAD, panic disorder, social anxiety, phobias) Depression and low mood Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, ARFID) PTSD and trauma-related symptoms Health anxiety and chronic worry Perfectionism and self-criticism Stress, burnout, and sleep issues It’s also a powerful approach for those experiencing life transitions, low self-esteem, or who want to develop more adaptive ways to cope with everyday challenges. CBT for OCD: Targeting Obsessions and Compulsions at the Core Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for OCD is one of the most effective treatments for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, especially when it includes Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—a specialized form of CBT. OCD involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) meant to neutralize those thoughts or reduce anxiety. Common OCD themes include contamination, harm, perfectionism, religious scrupulosity, checking, and more. In CBT for OCD, we help you: Identify and understand OCD triggers and patterns Use ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) to gradually face feared thoughts or situations without engaging in compulsions Learn how to tolerate uncertainty and discomfort in a structured way Build long-term resilience and confidence in managing OCD symptoms Our approach is compassionate, tailored, and evidence-based, helping you gain more adaptive ways of responding to thoughts without reinforcing OCD cycles. CBT for Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating CBT is a leading treatment for eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and ARFID. We use CBT-E (Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and other specialized protocols to help clients: Challenge disordered beliefs about food, weight, and body image Normalize eating patterns and reduce food-related anxiety Interrupt binge-purge or restrictive behavior cycles Reconnect with natural hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues Develop long-term strategies for emotional regulation and self-care CBT for eating disorders may include meal support, behavioral experiments, and exposures to feared foods, helping clients replace fear-based choices with balanced, intuitive eating. What to Expect in CBT Therapy CBT is collaborative, structured, and focused on action. During your sessions, you can expect to: Set meaningful treatment goals and track progress Learn and apply cognitive and behavioral tools between sessions Receive feedback and guidance in a supportive environment Address stuck patterns, avoidance, or distress in real time Leave each session with strategies you can use right away You’ll also likely engage in homework—short exercises or thought logs—to reinforce what you’re learning and help you make steady, sustainable progress. Benefits of CBT Proven effectiveness for a wide range of mental health concerns Skills-based approach that empowers long-term growth Short- to medium-term structure, typically 8–20 sessions Tailored to your goals and updated as progress unfolds Effective in-person or via telehealth Whether you’re new to therapy or looking to restart with a fresh approach, CBT offers a clear, supportive path toward meaningful change. Is CBT Right for You? Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is ideal for individuals who: Want to actively participate in their healing Are looking for practical strategies to reduce symptoms Struggle with OCD, anxiety, eating disorders, or depression Feel stuck in cycles of negative thinking or avoidance Want support in building emotional resilience and healthy routines We tailor CBT to fit your life—whether you’re in college, parenting, returning to work, or managing chronic stress. Start Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Today CBT therapy can help you break patterns, manage symptoms, and feel better. Our licensed clinicians are trained in CBT and specialized modalities like ERP for OCD and CBT-E for eating disorders. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or learn more about how Cognitive Behavioral 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

Dr. Cortes is a licensed psychologist and certified eating disorders specialist. She provides evidenced based treatment for OCD and eating disorders. Lissette Cortes Psy.D. CEDS Dr. Cortes is a licensed psychologist, Certified Eating Disorders Specialist and PsyPact® provider able to treat individuals in all PSYPACT® states. She treats adolescents and adults. She specializes in the treatment of co-morbid OCD and Eating Disorders. She also treats anxiety disorders, BDD, BFRBs and tics and Tourette‘s. Dr. Cortes is trained in CBIT for the treatment for Tourette's and in SPACE for parenting interventions. She practices from a CBT approach using ERP and implementing ACT principles. Certified Eating Disorders Specialist PsyPact Provider Professional Member of the IOCDF About Dr. Cortes I am a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Florida, Certified Eating Disorders Specialist and my pronouns are she/her.I am a Cognitive-Behavioral therapist and specialize in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I provide individual therapy, group therapy and parenting training. My main treatment focus is on eating disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, as well as BDD, Trichotillomania, phobias, panic disorder, anxiety disorders and depression. I am a Health At Every Size (HAES) aligned clinician and practice from a size-inclusive and diet-rejecting perspective incorporating Intuitive Eating principles. In my treatment approach I focus on creating an environment that supports a collaborative relationship in which goals are set in unison with my clients. I help my clients become more familiar with their own unhelpful thinking patterns, while developing more adaptive ways to cope with distress and to ultimately make supportive life changes. I support my clients in making changes to improve the quality of their lives by approaching otherwise avoided situations and obtaining self-confidence. I also facilitate improvements in family relationships by providing an environment where family members can feel comfortable in expressing their emotions, being heard and effectively communicating with one another. During my training at Nova Southeastern University and throughout my clinical practice while living in South Florida, I have served multicultural populations. I was born in Bogota, Colombia and Spanish is my first language, which has given me the opportunity to provide services in both English and Spanish languages. My client focus is inclusive of the LGBT population, and of folks of all genders, diverse religious backgrounds, ethnicities and nationalities as well as affirming of neurodivergence. I am very passionate about community involvement, advocating for mental health treatment, education and outreach. Since 2011 I have been a group facilitator for The National Alliance for Eating Disorder. I also hold leadership positions for the board of Florida Psychological Association Palm Beach Chapter and for the board of iaedp (International Association for Eating Disorder Professionals) South Florida Chapter. Together with my colleagues, we founded the OCD and Eating Disorders Special Interest Group through IOCDF. 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 neurodiversity-affirming therapy for autistic individuals, supporting wellbeing, identity, and personalized mental health care. Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy for Autistic Individuals Autism is a natural and meaningful neurotype. Autistic individuals bring unique strengths in focus, creativity, honesty, pattern recognition, and deep interest-based learning. Yet the world is often designed around neurotypical expectations, which can lead to stress, burnout, anxiety, and challenges in daily life. Our practice provides neurodiversity-affirming therapy for autistic individuals, including those who are diagnosed, self-identified, or are exploring the possibility that they might be autistic. Therapy is adapted to your sensory needs, communication style, and goals—you never have to mask or “be less autistic” to receive support. What Is Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy? Neurodiversity-affirming therapy recognizes that: Autism is a natural neurological variation, not a disorder to cure. Differences in communication, sensory processing, and routines are valid. Many challenges come from environmental mismatch—not from autism itself. Autistic individuals deserve therapy that adapts to them, not the other way around. This approach provides mental health support while respecting and celebrating autistic identity. Areas of Support for Autistic Individuals Autistic clients come to therapy for a wide range of reasons. Common focus areas include: Autistic Burnout & Chronic Stress Understanding causes, rebuilding energy, and preventing future burnout. Anxiety, OCD, and Co-Occurring Conditions Evidence-based treatment adapted for autistic individuals. Sensory Overload & Emotional Regulation Identifying sensory triggers, creating supportive environments, and developing regulation strategies. Executive Functioning & Daily Life Skills Collaborative tools for organization, planning, task initiation, and structuring routines—without shame. Relationship & Communication Support Working on mutual understanding, boundary-setting, and authentic communication. Identity Exploration, Late Identification, & Unmasking Processing new self-understanding, reducing internalized stigma, and building a sustainable lifestyle Autism and OCD: Understanding the Overlap Many autistic individuals also experience Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), but standard OCD models often overlook the unique ways it can appear in autistic individuals. Distinguishing autism-related traits from OCD is important so treatment is both effective and affirming. Why Autism and OCD Are Frequently Confused Some autistic traits can resemble OCD, including: Preference for predictability or routine Repetitive behaviors or stimming Intense focus on specific interests Sensory-based patterns or avoidance These are not OCD and should not be treated as compulsions. What OCD Looks Like in Autistic Individuals OCD in autistic individuals often includes: Intrusive, unwanted, anxiety-causing thoughts Compulsions performed to relieve distress, not to self-regulate Rituals that feel burdensome rather than soothing Mental compulsions or rumination Difficulty explaining internal experiences due to alexithymia A neurodiversity-informed assessment helps differentiate autistic routines, sensory stims, and comforting patterns from true OCD compulsions. This ensures clients receive the right type of support. Why Autism and OCD Often Co-Occur Research shows a higher rate of OCD among autistic individuals due to: Chronic anxiety from inaccessible environments Masking and pressure to conform Sensory overload and high vigilance Detail-oriented cognitive styles This is not because autism “causes” OCD, but because certain life conditions overlap. Neurodiversity-Affirming OCD Treatment for Autistic Individuals Traditional Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—the gold standard for OCD—can be highly effective for autistic individuals when adapted respectfully. Our approach includes: Sensory accommodations during ERP Predictable structure and clear explanations Modified pacing to avoid overwhelm Direct communication without ambiguity Adjustments for autistic burnout Protecting stimming and sensory regulation (never treating them as compulsions) The goal is to treat OCD effectively without suppressing autistic behaviors or identity. We use evidence-based modalities, including CBT, ACT, ERP, and sensory-informed strategies, adapted specifically for autistic communication, processing, and sensory needs. Every session is collaborative, transparent, and paced according to client comfort. Clients never have to mask, translate their experience into neurotypical language, or pretend to be someone they’re not. This service is designed for: Autistic individuals Self-diagnosed or questioning individuals Late-identified autistic individuals Autistic individuals experiencing OCD or anxiety Neurodivergent individuals seeking affirming, respectful mental health care If you’re unsure whether your experiences stem from autism, OCD, anxiety, or a combination, therapy can help clarify and support you. You Deserve Therapy That Honors Your Neurotype If you’re looking for therapists who understand autism, respect neurodiversity, and provide affirming support for autistic traits and co-occurring challenges like OCD or anxiety, we can help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation or learn more about neurodiversity-affirming 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