body dysmorphia treatment
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body dysmorphia treatment for adults and adolescents
Body dysmorphia, or Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), is a mental health condition where individuals become intensely preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance. These concerns often cause significant distress, anxiety, and impairment in daily functioning.
At Galen Hope, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care for adolescents and adults struggling with body dysmorphia, helping clients address both the emotional and behavioral aspects of the disorder while fostering self-acceptance and mental well-being.
what is body dysmorphia?
Body dysmorphia involves obsessive focus on perceived physical imperfections that may be minor or nonexistent. Individuals with BDD often engage in repetitive behaviors such as mirror checking, skin picking, or excessive grooming, and may avoid social situations due to embarrassment or shame. This condition can significantly impact self-esteem, relationships, and overall quality of life, and often co-occurs with anxiety, depression, or eating disorders. Early recognition and professional support are critical for effective recovery.
our approach to body dysmorphia treatment
Galen Hope uses a multidisciplinary approach to treat body dysmorphia, integrating therapy, medical support, and behavioral interventions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure-based techniques help clients challenge distorted body perceptions and reduce compulsive behaviors. We also address co-occurring mental health conditions and provide nutritional guidance and lifestyle strategies when relevant. The goal is to foster a healthier relationship with one’s body, improve emotional well-being, and promote long-term recovery.
what body dysmorphia treatment might look like at galen hope
1. connect
Connect with us: A compassionate care coordinator will listen and help you take the first step towards healing and moving forward with your life.
2. Collaborate
Collaborate on your treatment plan: Our expert clinical team will design a personalized roadmap based on your goals, needs, and life circumstances.
3. Engage
Engage in our healing community: Participate in a structured, supportive treatment program alongside peers and professionals who understand trauma.
4. Healing
Begin your journey toward lasting healing: As symptoms ease, you will develop skills, insight, and a renewed sense of self to carry with you long after treatment ends.
typical body dysmorphia clients we work with
Galen Hope serves clients from across the United States and beyond, offering compassionate, expert care to individuals from states like: Florida, New York, Texas, California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Illinois, Wisconsin, Montana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Arizona, Tennessee, Washington, Maryland, Virginia, and more. Many clients travel nationally and internationally to receive personalized treatment in our welcoming, supportive environment. Our programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of those seeking deeper healing—no matter where they’re coming from.
At Galen Hope, we provide care for adolescents, teens, college students, and adults who struggle with distressing body image concerns and obsessive thoughts about appearance. Many of our clients are professionals, athletes, or performers who face pressures related to performance, aesthetics, or social expectations.
We also serve a diverse community, including men and women, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC and Latin/Hispanic communities, and those who have experienced trauma or high-stress environments. By incorporating family support when appropriate and focusing on individualized care, we create a safe, inclusive space that promotes emotional healing, self-acceptance, and lasting behavioral change.
we invite you here to heal in your own very special way
At Galen Hope, every client is immediately acknowledged as an individual whose story may not be represented by traditional diagnostic criteria. We seek to fully understand their life experience and to provide them with an affirming environment where they feel accepted and supported.
For someone struggling with an eating disorder or mental illness, finding a place in the world, forming connections, developing meaning and purpose in life, and having day-to-day support is vital to better outcomes, long-term health, and well-being. We create a sense of community inside our doors, where we facilitate a commitment to recovery. We find tremendous meaning in bringing someone into our circle and helping them recognize the importance they play in it. It is through these relationships that healing takes place and clients begin to develop the skills to live both independently and in relation to others.
body dysmorphia faqs
what are common signs and symptoms of body dysmorphia?
Common signs include obsessive focus on perceived flaws, frequent mirror checking or avoidance, excessive grooming, skin picking, or comparing oneself to others. Individuals may experience high levels of anxiety, shame, or distress related to their appearance. These behaviors often interfere with daily life, relationships, work, or school performance.
does body dysmorphia affect men and women differently?
Body dysmorphia can affect anyone, but men and women may focus on different body areas. Women often report concerns about weight, shape, or skin, while men may be preoccupied with muscularity, hair, or body size. However, the emotional distress and compulsive behaviors are similar across genders, and both can experience significant social and functional impairment.
is body dysmorphia related to eating disorders?
Yes, body dysmorphia frequently co-occurs with eating disorders, as both involve preoccupation with appearance and body image. Individuals with anorexia, bulimia, or other eating disorders may have overlapping symptoms such as restrictive eating, bingeing, or purging. However, body dysmorphia can occur independently, with obsessions focusing on features beyond weight or shape.
can therapy help with body dysmorphic disorder?
Yes, therapy—especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)—is highly effective for body dysmorphia. Therapy helps clients challenge distorted thoughts, reduce compulsive behaviors, and develop healthier coping strategies. Treatment may also address co-occurring anxiety, depression, or eating disorders for a comprehensive approach.
what type of therapist should I see for body dysmorphia?
A licensed mental health professional experienced in treating body dysmorphic disorder or related conditions is recommended. This may include psychologists, clinical social workers, or therapists specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy or eating disorders. Choosing a therapist familiar with the intersection of body image and mental health ensures more effective treatment.
how long does it take to recover from body dysmorphia?
Recovery timelines vary depending on symptom severity, co-occurring conditions, and engagement in treatment. Many individuals see improvement within several months of structured therapy, while more persistent symptoms may require longer-term support. Recovery is an ongoing process, with emphasis on developing healthy thought patterns, emotional regulation, and coping skills.
what’s the difference between an inpatient vs outpatient treatment center?
Inpatient centers provide 24/7 supervision, structured therapy, and intensive support for severe or medically complicated cases of body dysmorphia. Outpatient centers, like Galen Hope, offer individualized therapy, group support, and care coordination while allowing clients to maintain daily routines. Outpatient treatment provides professional guidance and accountability in a flexible environment tailored to each client’s needs.
how can I help a friend or family member with body dysmorphia?
Offer empathy and listen without judgment, focusing on their emotional experience rather than appearance. Encourage them to seek professional evaluation and support, and provide practical assistance such as helping them find a qualified therapist. Avoid comments about their appearance, and emphasize patience, understanding, and encouragement throughout their recovery journey.
does galen hope take insurance?
Yes. Galen Hope accepts insurance for mental health and eating disorder treatment. We are in-network with ComPsych, Claritev (formerly called Multiplan), Aetna, and Optum/UnitedHealthcare plans. We also work with many out-of-network insurance providers and offer benefit verification to help you understand your options.
What insurance plans does Galen Hope accept for eating disorder and mental health treatment?
Galen Hope is currently in-network with ComPsych, Multiplan, Aetna, and select Optum/UnitedHealthcare plans. Through our Optum contract, we may also be able to work with commercial plans such as UnitedHealthcare, AvMed, and Oscar. We also support many clients through out-of-network benefits with providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Cigna, First Health, and others. To determine how your specific plan may apply to treatment, please contact us for a complimentary insurance verification.
Can I use out-of-network insurance to pay for treatment at Galen Hope?
In some instances, we can accept out-of-network (OON) as full payment while in others, we provide a scaled partial payment. This may also be connected with your out or pocket max, as well as co-pays and co-insurance. The degree to which out of network benefits cover the full cost of treatment varies greatly from policy to policy. In some instances it can serve as full payment, while others may cover a portion. In all cases, individuals using out of network benefits will be subject to paying their out-of-network deductible and other fees such as the out of pocket max, co-insurance or co-pays as dictated by your insurance policy.
Does Galen Hope help verify insurance benefits for treatment?
Absolutely. We offer free insurance benefit verification to help you understand what your policy may cover before you begin treatment. We aim to provide full transparency around coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Can I get a Single Case Agreement (SCA) for treatment at Galen Hope?
When clinically indicated and appropriate, we pursue Single Case Agreements (SCAs) to help families access in-network-level coverage with an out-of-network provider. Our team advocates on your behalf and provides clinical documentation to support the request. We encourage you to call us so that we can determine if a SCA is warranted.
What happens if my insurance stops covering treatment early?
If your insurance coverage ends unexpectedly and we believe the denial of care is not in your best clinical interest, our team will work directly with your insurance carrier to appeal the decision. You will receive timely notification of any changes in authorizations for care in order to explore financial options and clinical recommendations to help minimize any disruption in care.
How can I find out what my insurance covers for eating disorder or mental health treatment?
Our admissions team will assess your insurance policy, the recommended level of care, and your treatment location to give you a clear understanding of what your plan is likely to cover. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
Are insurance benefits different depending on where I live?
Yes. Insurance coverage may vary by state and plan type. We consider your plan’s regional requirements when evaluating your benefits.
Will I know my treatment costs before starting at Galen Hope?
Yes. Before admission, we’ll walk you through all anticipated costs, including what insurance is likely to cover and any out-of-pocket expenses, so there are no surprises.
Can Galen Hope help me understand my insurance coverage?
Yes. Our experienced admissions team will break down your policy, explain your mental health or eating disorder benefits, and help you make the most informed decision possible.
our body dysmorphia treatment centers in florida
With two state-of-the-art body dysmorphia treatment centers in Florida, Galen Hope is dedicated to helping individuals address obsessive body image concerns while supporting co-occurring mental health conditions. Our programs integrate therapy, medical monitoring, and behavioral interventions to help clients reduce compulsive behaviors and improve overall well-being.
Whether local or traveling from out of state, clients benefit from a supportive, structured environment where they can develop practical coping strategies, strengthen emotional resilience, and achieve long-term recovery. Galen Hope’s approach emphasizes lasting change, empowering clients to foster healthier self-perception and engage fully in daily life.
Galen Hope proudly serves clients across South Florida through our two conveniently located treatment centers. Our Coral Gables location, just south of Miami and ~30 miles south of Fort Lauderdale, offers accessible care in a vibrant, culturally rich setting. In Delray Beach—just south of Palm Beach—clients will find a serene and supportive environment ideal for healing and growth. Whether you’re local to Florida or traveling from out of state, our programs offer a safe, welcoming space for true healing and growth.
coral gables
Address: 806 Douglas Road, Suite 625
Coral Gables, FL 33445
delray beach
Address: 4600 Linton Blvd.
Delray Beach, FL 33445