Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Treatment in Denver
Understanding the Symptoms of Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Body dysmorphia, clinically known as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), is a mental health condition in which a person becomes excessively preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance. These flaws are often minor or not noticeable to others, but to the individual they feel distressing, consuming, and difficult to ignore. Common areas of concern include the skin, face, hair, body shape, or specific features. Individuals may spend significant amounts of time thinking about their appearance, checking mirrors, comparing themselves to others, or seeking reassurance.
This preoccupation can lead to significant emotional distress and interfere with daily functioning. People with body dysmorphia may avoid social situations, photos, mirrors, or bright lighting, and may feel intense shame, anxiety, or low self-esteem. Some individuals pursue repeated cosmetic procedures without lasting relief. Body dysmorphia can affect people of all genders and ages, and without treatment, symptoms often persist or worsen over time.
How CBT Helps Treat Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based and highly effective treatment for body dysmorphia. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge distorted beliefs about their appearance and reduce behaviors that maintain distress, such as mirror checking, reassurance seeking, or avoidance. Therapy focuses on developing more balanced ways of thinking and responding to appearance-related thoughts.
CBT for body dysmorphia often includes exposure techniques, such as gradually reducing avoidance of mirrors or social situations, while learning to tolerate distress without engaging in compulsive behaviors. Treatment also helps individuals shift focus away from appearance as a primary source of self-worth. With consistent CBT, many people experience reduced preoccupation with perceived flaws, improved self-esteem, and greater engagement in daily life.
Fees
Individual Sessions
(45-minutes)
/session
Parent Training Sessions
(45-minutes)
/session
Couples
(45-minutes)
/session
Adults DBT Groups Sessions
(2-hours)
/session for six months to 1-year
Multi-Family Skills Group
(2-hours)
/session for 24-weeks
Insurance
We do not accept insurance (most specialists do not), but many of our clients are able to get partial reimbursement from their insurance companies through their out-of-network benefits. We are happy to provide you with the necessary paperwork to submit an out-of-network claim to your insurance company.
Begin Your Healing Journey
At Mountainside Behavioral Health, we are committed to fostering a supportive and professional environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered on their path to healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is body dysmorphia different from normal appearance concerns?
Body dysmorphia involves excessive, persistent distress and behaviors that interfere with daily functioning, rather than occasional dissatisfaction with appearance.
Can body dysmorphia affect men as well as women?
Yes. Body dysmorphia affects people of all genders and can focus on different appearance concerns.
Is body dysmorphia related to eating disorders?
While they are distinct conditions, body dysmorphia and eating disorders can co-occur and share features such as body dissatisfaction and perfectionism.
Can body dysmorphia improve with treatment?
Yes. CBT has strong evidence for reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for individuals with body dysmorphia.
Free Consultation -
Begin Your Healing Journey
At Mountainside Behavioral Health, we are committed to fostering a supportive and professional environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered on their path to healing.