overcoming body image issues
body image treatment for adolescents and adults
Struggling with body image isn’t just about how someone looks—it’s about how they feel in their own skin. The thoughts, beliefs, and emotions surrounding body image deeply impact confidence, relationships, and overall well-being. For both teens and adults, negative body image can contribute to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and isolation. At Galen Hope, we provide compassionate, personalized body image counseling that helps clients reconnect with themselves—not through unrealistic ideals, but through self-compassion, healing, and empowerment. Recover starts by understanding that you are not broken—you are worthy of care.
what are body image concerns?
Body image concerns refer to the thoughts, perceptions, and feelings someone has about their body—its size, shape, weight, or appearance. When these thoughts become overly critical, distorted, or obsessive, they can lead to body dissatisfaction, avoidance behaviors, and mental health issues. Body image problems may manifest as constant comparison, body checking, shame around eating, or withdrawing from social activities.
These struggles often begin early, shaped by cultural messages, family beliefs, trauma, or peer experiences. For some, negative body image coexists with conditions like eating disorders, anxiety, or low self-esteem. At Galen Hope, we treat body image concerns not as superficial insecurities, but as deeply rooted emotional challenges that deserve attention and compassion.
our approach to body image treatment
At Galen Hope, we know that healing body image starts from within—not by changing the body, but by transforming the relationship to it. Our approach is trauma-informed, identity-affirming, and grounded in evidence-based practices that support emotional healing and lasting change.
Our treatment combines individual therapy, group work, and expressive modalities that help clients understand the origins of their body image struggles. We integrate Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and body-based therapies to address the emotional and relational roots of negative self-image. We also work with co-occurring issues such as perfectionism, disordered eating, or trauma, ensuring each client receives holistic, personalized care. At Galen Hope, we believe that everyone deserves to feel at home in their body, no matter their size, shape, or story.
what bipolar 1 disorder 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 image concern clients we work with
At Galen Hope, we serve individuals of all identities and backgrounds who are struggling with body image concerns. Many of our clients are teens, college students, or adults who are disconnected from their bodies or burdened by shame. We work with men and women recovering from eating disorders, living with chronic body dissatisfaction, or seeking to redefine their sense of self after years of self-criticism.
We support clients from the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent individuals, athletes, dancers, and BIPOC communities. We offer bilingual services. Whether you’ve lived with these struggles for years or are just beginning to name them, you’ll find a safe place and a skilled, compassionate team at Galen Hope.
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 image faqs
what does it mean to have body image issues?
Having body image issues means experiencing persistent dissatisfaction or distress about your physical appearance. This may involve distorted self-perception, body comparison, or obsessive thoughts about weight or shape. It often affects emotional well-being, self-worth, and daily functioning—and is not limited to one gender, size, or age.
what causes negative body image?
Negative body image is shaped by a combination of social, psychological, and cultural factors, including exposure to unrealistic beauty standards, bullying or teasing, trauma, perfectionism, and messages received in childhood. Social media, peer pressure, and even medical experiences can also contribute to how someone perceives and relates to their body.
can social media affect my body image?
Yes. Social media often amplifies body dissatisfaction by promoting edited, filtered, and curated images that do not reflect reality. Constant exposure to “ideal” bodies increases comparison, self-criticism, and feelings of inadequacy. At Galen Hope, we help clients build media literacy and develop tools to engage with social media in healthier, more empowered ways.
how do I know if my body image is unhealthy?
If thoughts about your body interfere with your self-esteem, confidence, relationships, eating habits, or daily life, it might be time to seek support. Warning signs include obsessive body checking, avoidance of mirrors, social withdrawal, and linking your worth to appearance. Therapy can help identify and address the root of these patterns.
can therapy help with body image concerns?
Absolutely! Therapy helps individuals explore the beliefs, experiences, and emotions that contribute t body image struggles. With the right support, clients learn to challenge distorted thoughts, build self-compassion, and shift their relationship with their body. At Galen Hope, therapy is a core component of our healing model—every step is taken with care and respect for your healing journey.
what's the difference between an inpatient vs outpatient treatment center?
Inpatient treatment involves 24/7 residential care, typically for acute or crisis-level needs. Outpatient centers like Galen Hope offer structured therapeutic support during the day while allowing clients to live at home or in supportive housing. We provide Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) designed to support deep healing and recovery in a real-world context.
how can I help a friend or family member with body image concerns?
Start with empathy, and avoid making comments about appearance. Focus on how they’re feeling, and encourage them to seek support. You might offer to help with logistics, like finding a therapist or attending an intake call. At Galen Hope, we provide resources for families and caregivers so you don’t have to navigate this alone.
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 image treatment centers in florida
With two premier Body Image treatment centers in Florida, Galen Hope provides a welcoming, affirming environment where healing can begin. Our centers are designed to feel safe and empowering—not clinical or judgmental—so clients can work through emotional pain and reconnect with their bodies on their terms.
We offer trauma-informed, integrative treatment that goes far beyond symptom relief, supporting long-term recovery and a deeper sense of self. Perhaps you’re from Florida, or you’re traveling from out of state—our programs are here to help you reclaim your relationship with your body and your life.
coral gables
Address: 806 Douglas Road, Suite 625
Coral Gables, FL 33445
delray beach
Address: 4600 Linton Blvd.
Delray Beach, FL 33445