Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Therapy

Evidence-based treatment for body-focused distress and appearance-related obsessions — offered via secure telehealth in Pennsylvania, Florida, & Vermont

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) involves persistent, distressing thoughts about perceived flaws in appearance that are often unnoticeable to others. These thoughts can feel consuming, leading to anxiety, shame, avoidance, or repetitive behaviors meant to find reassurance or relief.

At Onward Healing, we help individuals understand BDD and learn how to respond differently to appearance-focused thoughts and urges — without feeding the cycle that keeps them stuck.

Symptoms may include:

  • Intense preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance

  • Repeated checking, comparing, or seeking reassurance

  • Avoiding mirrors, photos, social situations, or lighting

  • Mental reviewing or rumination about appearance

  • Feeling distressed or impaired despite reassurance from others

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Treatment

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

Evidence-based treatment for BDD focuses on changing how you respond to appearance-related thoughts, images, and urges — rather than trying to eliminate them.

Treatment may include:

  • Gradual exposure to avoided situations (mirrors, photos, social settings)

  • Reducing checking, reassurance-seeking, and comparison behaviors

  • Learning to disengage from mental reviewing and rumination

  • Building tolerance for uncertainty and discomfort

  • Developing self-compassion and flexibility around appearance-focused thoughts

Treatment is collaborative, paced, and guided by your values.

Our Approach to BDD Therapy

BDD treatment at Onward Healing is:

  • Evidence-based – grounded in CBT and ERP principles

  • Compassion-focused – addressing shame with understanding and care

  • Mindfulness-informed – learning to notice thoughts without engaging

  • Trauma-informed – sensitive to experiences that may intensify body-focused distress

  • Individualized – tailored to each person’s unique presentation

Our goal is to help you move onward — toward a life that is not defined by appearance-based fear or self-criticism

BDD Therapy via Telehealth

Telehealth therapy is highly effective for BDD and allows treatment to take place in the environments where symptoms often show up — at home, during daily routines, and in social contexts.

Online therapy is:

  • Secure and HIPAA-compliant

  • Supported by research for BDD treatment

  • Accessible throughout Pennsylvania

  • Well-suited for exposure-based work

What to Expect

  1. Free 15-minute consultation to discuss concerns and goals

  2. Comprehensive assessment of BDD symptoms and maintaining patterns

  3. Ongoing telehealth sessions focused on skill-building and meaningful change

Living with BDD can feel isolating — but effective treatment exists. With evidence-based care and compassionate support, it’s possible to move onward with greater ease and confidence.