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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.

While OCD affects people from all walks of life, individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community may experience unique challenges related to their identity. OCD symptoms can intertwine with their journey of understanding and accepting their gender and sexuality. Obsessions may focus on concerns, such as "What if I’m not truly gay?" or "What if I'm not really the gender I identify as?" These experiences of doubt and uncertainty then lead to significant distress. Individuals then engage in compulsions like excessive checking, reassurance seeking, mental rituals to try neutralizing these concerns or ritualistic behaviors aimed at proving or disproving their identity. Because OCD is so black and white, it feels as thought there is no room for doubt and there should be a 100% guarantee of absolute certainty. Any hint of doubt or ambiguity, feels unacceptable. This then goes against the natural and normal course and journey of sexual and gender identity development and exploration. An important component of working on sexual identify and gender identity OCD, focuses on honoring and giving space for each individual's journey of finding themselves and their identities. The gray areas within the journey can feel stressful when OCD is present, but this should not rush the journey! It's crucial for mental health professionals to provide culturally competent care, recognizing the unique experiences and stressors faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals with OCD. Safe spaces where individuals can share their experiences without fear of judgment can help reduce the isolation that often accompanies both OCD and the challenges of being LGBTQIA+. Treatment should then focus on helping individuals recognize how OCD can get in their way, and better tolerate anxiety while eliminating compulsions. The goal is to increase the ability to have positive relationships, positive functioning and overall well-being, living a life that is most authentic and affirming of who they are.

Contact We are glad you are here! Lets get in touch. We offer free 15 minute phone consultations. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or consult. Please use the form bellow to request a phone consultation. We look forward to hearing from you! First Name Last Name Email Phone Are you seekig sevices for yourself or someone else? What is your/their age? What state do you/they reside in? What type of services are you seeking: Eating Disorders Treatment OCD Treatment Anxiety Treatment Nutrition Therapy Psychological Evaluation Tics / Tourette's (CBIT) Other Are you looking to work with a specific provider? Lissette Cortes Psy.D. CEDS Michael Sheffield Psy.D. Katie Jeffrey MS, RDN, CSSD, MB-EAT-QI, LDN Neuropsychologist 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. * I've read and understand the above statement. Send If you would like a specific time for a call back you can see our availability here Thanks for submitting!

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. 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 April 7th! 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 Winter 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! 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@compassionateisnt.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@compassionateisnt.com Learn More! Self Compassion for OCD Therapy Group Our next self compassion for OCD therapy group will launch 2025! This group is open to adults experiencing OCD and participating in individual therapy. This group incorporates self compassion practice with principles of exposure and response prevention. More information soon! Call 561 679 1139 Email info@compassionateinst.com Follow

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 Learn About our Clinical Team Each of our clinicians is dedicated to meeting your unique needs. We emphasize a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where together we can identify and set goals of treatment to provide you with the best clinical care. 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 Katie Jeffrey she/her MS, RDN, CSSD, MB-EAT-QI, LDN Licensed and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Licensed in CT, FL, NC and RI Contact Contact us today for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, or to learn more! (561) 679 - 1139 Serving 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 Serving Palm Beach County Boca Raton- Boynton Beach - Delray Beach - Lakeworth - West Palm Beach