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When struggling with OCD or an eating disorder, it’s easy to become trapped in cycles of self-criticism, shame, and guilt. These mental health conditions often come with intrusive thoughts, compulsions, or disordered behaviors that feel deeply distressing—and in response, many people harshly judge themselves. This is where self-compassion becomes a powerful, healing force.   Self-compassion isn’t about ignoring problems or excusing harmful behavior. Instead, it’s about treating yourself with the same kindness, understanding, and patience you’d offer a loved one. Research has shown that cultivating self-compassion can reduce anxiety, support emotional regulation, and improve treatment outcomes for both OCD and eating disorders.   Why Self-Compassion Helps Interrupts the shame spiral: Shame often fuels both OCD and eating disorders. Self-compassion breaks the cycle by replacing harsh judgment with understanding. Reduces avoidance: When we’re kinder to ourselves, we’re more likely to face fears or triggers head-on—essential in exposure-based therapies. Builds resilience: Compassion fosters a sense of worth that isn’t defined by thoughts, symptoms, or appearance.   Tips for Cultivating Self-Compassion Practice mindful awareness: Notice your thoughts without judgment. Label them—“That’s an intrusive thought” or “That’s my inner critic”—and gently redirect your focus. Write a compassionate letter to yourself: Speak to yourself the way you would to a struggling friend. Use supportive statements: “I’m doing the best I can” or “It’s okay to feel this way”   Healing is rarely linear, and it’s never perfect. But when you respond to setbacks with compassion instead of criticism, you create space for growth, understanding, and lasting change.

September is National Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. I want to take this opportunity to encourage you to consider the impact that can be made when we normalize saying something is wrong or encouraging someone to seek help. I often recall a comic strip a friend shared with me, where people responded to physical injuries like they would typically respond to mental health struggles. One character in the comic showed his friend his broken limb, and his friend responded with "have you tried not thinking about it?" This comic sparked an important question for me. If we wouldn't hesitate to encourage our friend seek medical help if they were physically ill, why don't we treat mental illness in the same way? I understand that stigma around mental illness is very much present in our culture. Because of this there can be a certain level of "shame" in admitting there is something that hurts or needs attention. But again, would we be ashamed to say my broken foot hurts? Why as a society do we treat this differently? On a more positive note, we have most recently seen a shift in the younger generation taking more of a stand through social media and normalizing seeking help (kudos to our Gen-Z-ers). I really believe this will have a great impact for the future of mental health, because saying “I need help with my mental health” should be as acceptable as saying “I need help with my physical health.” If you are feeling depressed or in distress, please remember you are not alone. It's important to bring awareness to the impact that normalizing this dialogue can make on someone’s life. Suicide awareness and prevention begin with speaking out about and listening to someone’s struggles. Sometimes the most difficult thing to do is to speak about our vulnerabilities. However, we also know this is the most important factor in building connections and a possible avenue to saving a life. Having lost a dear friend to suicide, this initiative really hits home.   I remember feeling very upset about not having had a clear understanding of the kind of pain they were going through before they passed. Depression, distress, mental illness, should not be so foreign to us. Perhaps it is because it may not make sense to us, that we need to learn more about it. I invite you to take this opportunity this month of September to get more familiar with mental illness, and together we can make a difference in diminishing suicide rates and increasing mental well-being.   To get you started here is a list of common signs of suicide to watch out: Increased substance (alcohol or drug) use Statements about having no reason for living or no sense of purpose in life Experiencing anxiety, agitation, difficulty sleeping or sleeping all the time Stating that they feel trapped or hopeless. Withdrawal from friends, family and society Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking Drastic mood changes ·       Giving away possessions ·       Tying up loose ends, like organizing personal papers or paying off debts ·       Saying goodbye to friends and family   Here is a list of wonderful organizations that are active on this initiative:   ·      https://floridasuicideprevention.org/   ·      https://nspw.afsp.org/     ·      https://nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Suicide-Prevention-Awareness-Month-(SPAM)?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-PPslviC-gIVHcLCBB1-lww-EAAYAyAAEgI5e_D_BwE     ·      https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/index.html     Also the number to dial is 988 . This is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline   Lastly, here is the comic I was referring to in case you were curious:   https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2014/11/12/mental-illness-advice-physical-illness_n_6144398.html

Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) play a crucial role in the treatment of eating disorders by providing specialized nutrition guidance and support. Their expertise is essential for addressing the complex relationship between food, nutrition, and mental health that characterizes eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Key aspects of their role include: 1. Nutrition Assessment: RDNs conduct comprehensive assessments to understand the client’s eating behaviors, food intake, nutrition status as well as evaluate for possible deficiencies. During this comprehensive assessment, RDNs also gain an understanding regarding the individual’s relationship with food and his/her body. This assessment helps the RDN to create a plan that will best suit the client’s needs and individual goals. 2. Meal Planning and Monitoring: RDNs develop varied and balanced meal plans that meet the nutritional needs of clients. An “all foods fit” approach is utilized and emphasized. This fosters a peaceful relationship with food for the client. Meeting the client where s/he is at as well as monitoring progress and adjusting plans as needed is a continuous part of their work. 3. Education and Counseling: RDNs provide evidence-based nutrition education and dispel food myths. They provide counseling to address food-related fears and misconceptions, helping patients develop a more peaceful relationship with food. 4. Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams: Treatment of eating disorders often involves a team of healthcare professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and medical doctors. RDNs collaborate with these team members to ensure a holistic and comprehensive approach to treatment. 5. Support: RDNs offer emotional support and encouragement helping clients increase their willingness to remain committed to their recovery journey. Building trust and rapport is crucial for effective intervention. 6. Behavioral Interventions: RDNs may use techniques such as CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy), ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and/or self-compassion practices to address dysfunctional eating behaviors and thoughts. They help clients set realistic intentions and develop coping strategies for managing triggers and setbacks. 7. Family Involvement: In many cases, RDNs work with families to educate them about the client's condition and how they can provide support. This is particularly important for younger clients. 8. Preventing Relapse: Long-term follow-up and support are essential to prevent relapse. RDNs help patients maintain healthy eating behaviors and thoughts and provide ongoing counseling to address any emerging issues. By addressing the nutritional and psychological aspects of eating disorders, RDNs play a vital role in the comprehensive treatment and recovery process. Their interventions are essential for restoring physical health, improving mental well-being, and promoting sustainable, healthy eating behaviors.

OCD is a neurobiological condition that affects 1 in 100 adults and 1 n 200 children in the U.S. The gold standard of treatment for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention with which people can live full lives. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Obsessive Compulsive Disorder , or OCD, is characterized by persistent unwanted thoughts, images, sensations or urges also known as obsessions that trigger heightened levels of anxiety, distress, discomfort and even disgust. Because these experiences can be so distressful individuals engage in compulsive behaviors, avoidance or rituals in an attempt to get rid of, or control their obsessions and the distress associated with them. This cycle of obsessions and compulsions is often very time consuming and debilitating, preventing the individual from living a full life. Symptoms of OCD Obsessions: Intrusive thoughts that can cause significant anxiety, such as fears of contamination, harming others, or fears of making a mistake. Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or rituals, like excessive cleaning, checking, or counting, performed to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event. Common themes of OCD include : Fear of causing harm Fear of being harmed Fear of contamination Experience of extreme disgust Concern with body sensations Need for symmetry or exactness Intolerance for uncertainty The repeated cleaning of inanimate objects Excessive checking Ritualistic counting Avoidance of certain places, experiences or things Prevalence: OCD affects about 1-2% of the population worldwide. In the U.S., the lifetime prevalence is around 1.6%. Onset: OCD often begins in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood, with a mean age of onset between 19 and 25 years. Gender Differences: It affects all genders, but biological males often show symptoms earlier in life, while biological females may experience a later onset. Causes of OCD: The exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, but a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors may contribute to its development. Traumatic events, stress, or a family history of OCD can also increase the risk. Co-occurring Conditions: OCD often occurs alongside other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders , depression, and tic disorders . Impact on Daily Life: OCD can severely affect daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. Individuals may spend hours each day on compulsions, leading to distress and impairment in personal, academic, or professional areas. Diagnosis OCD is diagnosed by a mental health professional through interviews and assessments based on DSM-5 criteria. Symptoms must be time-consuming (e.g., taking more than an hour daily) and cause significant distress or impairment. Treatment Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) : Specifically, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a highly effective treatment for OCD. It involves gradually exposing individuals to their fears while helping them resist the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors. Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms. They can reduce the intensity of obsessions and compulsions. Support Groups : Connecting with others who understand the challenges of OCD can provide valuable support and encouragement. If one or more of the above symptoms are present for you, please know you don't have to suffer and treatment is available. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention which research shows it provides the best results for the treatment of OCD. Exposure therapy is tailored to meet your own individual needs and so we provide in office exposure, as well as outside of the office and home visits. 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

Compassionate Healing Institute, LLC. provides evidenced-based psychological and nutritional services for OCD, eating disorders and anxiety as well as psychological testing evaluations. We specialize in exposure and response prevention (ERP) and provide telehealth sessions, in person sessions, meal support, food exposure and home visits. Read More Compassionate Healing Institute OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER • EATING DISORDERS • ANXIETY (561) 679-1139 info@compassionateinst.com Contact us today OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER Learn More EATING DISORDERS Learn More ANXIETY Learn More NUTRITION THERAPY Learn More EXPOSURE & RESPONSE PREVENTION Learn More PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING Learn More Providing in-person services in South Florida Find us on the map ! 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 We provide online services 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, 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 10 years of age. * Click here to schedule a call OUR VALUES AND MISSION Taking the first step to seeking support can be challenging and also courageous. We are glad that you are here! We are a team of specialists who focus on providing compassionate care to all individuals seeking mental health treatment. We provide specialized psychological and nutritional services through evidenced-based treatments as well as psychological evaluations , honoring your unique needs and experiences as an individual. Our mission at Compassionate Healing Institute is to provide a supportive environment where individuals can embark on their journey towards mental wellness. Through evidence-based practices and personalized treatment plans we strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and cultivate resilience. We are deeply committed to providing affirming and culturally competent care to all individuals, including those who are LGBT+ and individuals of all nationalities, races and ethnicities. Our practices embraces diversity and the unique identities and experiences of each person who seeks our support. About OCD and Eating Disorders Eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often intersect. Individuals with eating disorders may engage in compulsive behaviors around food and body image while individuals with OCD may develop a challenging relationship with food due to OCD fears. When these two conditions are both present this can make recovery challenging. Understanding this relationship is crucial for effective treatment, as addressing both the eating disorder and OCD symptoms simultaneously can significantly improve outcomes. Our clinicians have been guest speakers for various organizations including the IOCDF to bring about more awareness to this comorbidity. Click on the videos bellow to learn more. February 27, 2025 ANAD Day of Conversation ANAD and IOCDF came together to discuss the connection, similarities, and differences of the eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorders. This conversation will provided insight into the lived experience of these co-occurring conditions and explored special considerations for treatment and support. Dr. Lissette Cortes and Katie Jeffrey shared about their expertise on eating disorders and OCD. 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. Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call

Meal support for OCD and eating disorders—learn to face feared foods, reduce mealtime anxiety, and practice intuitive eating in recovery. Meal Support Meal support is a vital part of recovery for individuals struggling with OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) and eating disorders. If meals bring anxiety, guilt, or distress—or if you avoid certain foods or eating situations—our structured support helps you regain trust in your body and normalize your eating patterns. We offer evidence-based meal support to help you face feared foods, challenge intrusive thoughts, and take steps toward intuitive eating and long-term recovery. Why Meal Support Is Essential in Eating Disorder and OCD Recovery Living with OCD or an eating disorder often means meals are loaded with fear, rules, or compulsions. Our goal is to reduce mealtime anxiety and help you: Break free from disordered eating patterns Decrease compulsive behaviors and food-related rituals Learn to eat regular, balanced meals throughout the day Reconnect with your body’s natural hunger and fullness cues Our meal support sessions offer structure, encouragement, and a calm space to practice eating without shame or fear. Facing Feared Foods and Feared Eating Experiences A key part of healing involves exposure to feared foods and eating situations. These exposures help rewire the brain’s response to anxiety around food and reduce avoidance behaviors over time. We support you in: Reintroducing foods that have become “off-limits” Challenging rigid food rules and safety behaviors Sitting with discomfort without acting on compulsions Practicing ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) techniques in real-time Facing feared foods isn’t about pushing you too far—it’s about taking small, supported steps toward food freedom. Practicing Intuitive Eating in Recovery Many people in recovery want to embrace intuitive eating, but it’s not always clear how to do this safely after experiencing OCD or an eating disorder. With meal support, you can begin to: Understand and trust your internal hunger and fullness cues Separate intrusive thoughts from genuine body signals Learn to eat without guilt, fear, or overthinking Cultivate a peaceful, balanced relationship with food We meet you where you are—whether you’re learning to eat intuitively for the first time or reintroducing flexibility after structured meal plans. How Meal Support Helps Normalize Eating Patterns Meal support helps your body and brain relearn what it means to eat normally and consistently. Over time, you’ll begin to: Eat consistently—meals and snacks every 3–4 hours Feel more in control and calm during eating times Reduce anxiety around food choices and social eating Build long-term habits that support full recovery We work with you to establish sustainable routines that promote both physical and emotional healing. Who We Support Our meal support services are ideal for: Individuals with OCD and food-related compulsions Those recovering from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, or ARFID People transitioning from higher levels of care (PHP, IOP) Anyone struggling with mealtime anxiety, food fears, or disordered eating Support can be provided one-on-one or in small groups, virtually or in person, depending on your needs. Start Healing—One Meal at a Time Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. With compassionate, clinically-informed meal support, you can: Face feared foods and situations with confidence Reduce the power of OCD and eating disorder thoughts Learn to eat intuitively and joyfully Restore balance, nourishment, and peace Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Click here to schedule a call