Body Dysmorphic Disorder Treatment

Specialized body dysmorphic treatment in NYC

Find relief and confidence to move forward in life with specialized body Dysmorphic treatment

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is more than self-consciousness. It involves intrusive, distressing thoughts about one's appearance. leading to isolation, depression, shame, self-disgust, anxiety, and anger. BDD often involves avoiding school, work, and social activities, along with time-consuming behaviors.

If you experience BDD, you know how overwhelming it can feel. But there’s hope—Bio Behavioral Institute’s BDD treatment program helps you regain confidence and reconnect with life. After launching the first BDD-specific treatment protocol in 1990, we continue to be one of the few centers treating BDD with experience, science, and compassion. If you have felt misunderstood elsewhere, your treatment journey with us will be different. We will work hand-in-hand with your goals.

Our treatment approach helps you manage these symptoms, regain control, and understand your journey.

Our historic expertise in BDD treatment

Over 30 years ago, Bio Behavioral Institute was the first to publish and develop a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatment strategy, differentiating it from OCD treatment.

Our clinicians have written two treatment manuals for BDD which are widely used for its treatment. Bio Behavioral Institute is one of the only programs in the country offering an Intensive Outpatient Programfor BDD.

Why BDD Treatment at Bio Behavioral Institute?

Specialized Expertise

We’re the longest standing institute to provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat Body Dysmorphic Disorder.

Compassionate, Personalized Care

We work closely with you to understand and address your unique needs.

Flexible Treatment Options

We offer access to care in-person, online, or wherever your comfort takes us.

How we treat BDD

Our program uses evidence-based techniques proven to reduce body dysmorphia symptoms:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

Learn to challenge negative thoughts and develop healthier ways of thinking.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP):

Gradually confront and challenge your appearance-related fears and previously avoided situations.

Perceptual Re-Training:

Group Therapy:

If you’d like, join others overcoming similar challenges for support and shared experiences.

5 - Star Rating

"I came to Bio Behavioral after years of being diagnosed from having neuroses to schizophrenia. It was there that I found people who understood me and helped me. They interviewed me at length and knew I had OCD. A care plan was implemented and they were with them every step of my journey .Everyone there on the team had studied OCD and knew how to diagnose and treat. I can never thank Bio Behavioral enough”

Read More
- Lynn R.
Verified Customer

Our process

Our body dysmorphic treatment plan addresses your feelings, thoughts, avoidance, and visual perceptual aspects of the disorder. Here’s what you can expect:

Find Understanding and Validation 

Our initial assessment helps us deeply understand what you’re experiencing. 

Target Key Elements of the Disorder

Your recovery starts when treatment addresses all of the key elements of the disorder.

Get a Personalized Path to Progress

Our customized treatment program allows you to experience lasting relief and self-acceptance. We’ll work with you at your own pace, putting you in control of your journey.

Receive Ongoing Support

You’ll have regular check-ins to make sure you progress comfortably, with guidance tailored to keep you moving forward. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Body Dysmorphia? What does it look like?

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition involving intrusive thoughts about perceived flaws in one’s appearance. This can lead to behaviors like excessive mirror-checking, avoiding social situations, and significant distress, impacting daily life and self-esteem.

What Causes Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

Body dysmorphic Disorder may result from a mix of genetic predisposition, neurocirculatory disturbances in the brain, and past trauma or negative experiences related to appearance distress. Social and cultural influences emphasizing physical appearance can also contribute to developing BDD.

What are the Signs of Body Dysmorphia?

If you experience ongoing distress about your appearance, repeatedly engage in behaviors to “improve” or “hide” your disliked aspects of your appearance, and find that these concerns interfere with daily life, you may have BDD. Common indicators include spending hours on appearance-focused activities or avoiding social interactions due to self-image.

How Common is Body Dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphic Disorder affects roughly 1 in 50 people, although it may be underreported due to stigma or shame. BDD often occurs alongside other mental health issues like OCD, depression, and anxiety.

What Types of Therapies Are Used in the Treatment?

Bio Behavioral Institute uses proven, evidence-based therapies to treat body dysmorphia:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals challenge negative thoughts and reshape self-perception
  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): Gradually confronts and manages appearance-related fears and avoidance. 
  • Perceptual Re-Training: [details]

Group Therapy: Provides shared support and understanding with others facing similar challenges

How Long Does the Treatment Typically Last?

Treatment duration varies by individual needs and progress, but many patients start to see improvement within a few months of therapy sessions. Multiple therapy sessions a week are often necessary in the early stages of treatments.

How Much Does Body Dysmorphia Treatment Cost?

Bio Behavioral Institute is an out-of-network provider. We provide superbills to your insurance company and do all that we can to help families pay for our services. 

Will I Have a Dedicated Therapist During My Treatment?

Yes, you will be assigned a dedicated therapist who specializes in body dysmorphic disorder treatment. This therapist will work closely with you, providing consistent support throughout your treatment journey.

Your journey to regaining your life back

Overcoming body dysmorphic disorder is possible. Bio Behavioral Institute’s specialized treatment can help you achieve a healthier, more confident life.