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Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Treatment, Counseling and Therapy Program

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

13 minutes read

Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

If you have been struggling with persistent mental health distress, you may benefit from personalized care at a mental health treatment center. A Mission For Michael is a leading behavioral health treatment provider, with locations in California, Washington, and Virginia. Our recovery centers provide individualized care based on your unique mental health needs.

We provide treatment programs for a range of mental health conditions including mood disorders, some body image disorders, and dual diagnosis conditions. We will now review body dysmorphic disorder symptoms so that you can compare them to your current challenges and experiences. After, we will review common treatment approaches that can help you in your recovery journey.

What Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a body image disorder known for a preoccupation on your appearance, and perceived flaws in appearance. Often, the flaws that are focused on are not noticeable to others and are minor, but they feel real and can lead to significant distress. You may experience obsessive body image thoughts regarding your perceived physical flaws.

Individuals living with BDD may engage in particular behaviors like mirror checking and excessive grooming behavior, which can be time-consuming. This condition can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life, self-esteem, and overall psychological wellbeing. If you or someone you love has been struggling with their body image, we encourage you to contact A Mission For Michael your free assessment for body image disorders.

Body dysmorphic disorder is most commonly known for causing distorted body perception. This means that what you see when you look at yourself in the mirror often differs from what others see when they look at you. Your attention may be focused on particular areas that you perceive as flaws. Some of the common signs and symptoms associated BDD include:

  • Compulsive mirror checking, or avoiding mirrors completely
  • Excessive grooming behaviors can include skin picking due to body image
  • A plastic surgery obsession to “fix” perceived flaws
  • Seeking reassurance from others about appearance, though this rarely has the effect you’d like
  • Appearance-related anxiety that can lead to avoiding social situations
  • Anxiety, depression and shame connected to body image concerns
  • Intrusive thoughts that affect your concentration and focus

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) affects around 1.7% to 2.9% of the general population, with higher rates among those seeking dermatology or cosmetic procedures. BDD symptoms often emerge in early adolescence, around ages 12 and 13, and commonly target specific body areas like the skin, hair, nose, and chest.

Individuals with BDD may experience intense feelings of shame and stigma, leading to an average ten-year delay in seeking treatment. Studies indicate that around 80% of people with BDD report current or past suicidal thoughts, highlighting the mental health challenges associated with this disorder.

Does Health Insurance Cover Body Dysmorphic Disorder Treatment and Therapy Programs Near Me?

Yes, many health insurance plans provide coverage for the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder. Coverage does vary among major health insurance companies, and may include copay, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Insurance coverage often covers both inpatient and outpatient therapy clinics, allowing you to receive support during different stages of your recovery.

It is important to note that your plan may require prior authorization for specialized treatment options. To learn more about the scope of your insurance coverage, we encourage you to contact A Mission For Michael today.

Do Mental Health Centers Provide Therapy and Treatment for BDD?

Yes, a mental health treatment center can provide a variety of body dysmorphic disorder treatments. Treatment for BDD is often available in a range of intensities, to provide care for those who are in different stages of their recovery. This can include the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy.

In some cases, psychiatric care can be beneficial in addressing specific symptoms and challenges. The goal of a BDD treatment program is to help those who carry a fear of judgment about appearance address their intrusive and obsessive thoughts, improve self-esteem, and reduce the overall psychological distress they experience.

What Happens at a Body Dysmorphic Disorder Treatment Center?

Mental health treatment centers for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) can provide you with a structured environment to focus on decreasing your self-esteem issues and body image concerns. Specialty treatment centers can use evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).

You can expect to engage in a range of therapeutic activities like individual therapy, group therapy, educational sessions, and psychiatric care in some cases. BDD healthcare facilities can incorporate holistic treatments like mindfulness, art therapy, and life skills training. Contact AMFM directly to explore our treatment for those experiencing mental health and body image issues.

How to Find Body Dysmorphic Disorder Treatment Facilities Near Me

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) has multiple treatment centers that provide evidence-based and holistic care for a range of mental health conditions. Those who are experiencing social anxiety and body dysmorphia or obsessions with physical appearance are encouraged to dial (866)478-4383 to discuss available treatment options.

What Types of Body Dysmorphic Disorder Therapy and Treatment Programs Are Available Near Me?

There are a variety of body dysmorphia treatment programs available to address the variations in symptoms and level of distress experienced. Treatment programs can range from an inpatient treatment center to an outpatient treatment center. Some of the common BDD treatment programs include: 

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Day Treatment

Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP) and day treatment programs provide structured, intensive treatment options during the day while allowing you to return home for the evenings. These programs often include group and individual therapy, using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Inpatient and Residential Treatment

Inpatient and residential treatment programs can provide you with 24/7 care in a structured and therapeutic environment. Your treatment will focus on stabilizing severe symptoms with the use of therapy, medical support, group sessions, and holistic treatments addressing self-esteem concerns and intrusive thoughts. This is ideal for those who are experiencing severe symptoms, including safety risks.

Outpatient and Evening Treatment Programs

An outpatient treatment program or evening treatment program can provide you with flexible support around your work, school, and other commitments. These programs are ideal for those with mild to moderate symptoms who do not require intensive treatment. Programming focuses on strengthening your coping skills, building self-acceptance skills, and reducing obsessive symptoms.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP) is a form of outpatient care that includes multiple hours of treatment, several days each week. This can include group therapy, individual therapy, and psychiatric care in some cases. This can serve as a transitional program for those who have completed intensive treatment and are not ready for the flexibility of an outpatient program.

Sober Living or Transitional Living Programs

Transitional living programs could be beneficial for those who are living with co-occurring substance use disorders. These are therapeutic, supportive, and sober environments that are recovery-focused. Here, you can work to develop a routine and practice social skills that can aide in long-term recovery.

What Types of Counseling and Therapy Programs for BDD are Available Near Me?

There are several therapeutic approaches available to provide body dysmorphic disorder help for those experiencing BDD symptoms. Therapy programs can incorporate more than one approach and intervention to provide you with well-rounded care to help you improve your mental well-being. Some of the common therapeutic approaches used include:

Group therapy can provide you with a supportive environment with others who have had similar experiences with a body image disorder. Group therapy can encourage your use of social skills and decrease loneliness and isolation. Family therapy can focus on developing a safe and supportive home environment for everyone, with an increased understanding of your struggles.

Art and music therapy are creative therapies that allow you to access emotions and thoughts related to BDD that may be difficult to express. These therapies can provide you with a safe and supportive environment to explore your self-image concerns, and the root cause for your body image disorder.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be used to help you address distorted thinking patterns and beliefs that contribute to compulsive behaviors’ appearance concerns. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) includes gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking situations to decrease your fear response over time.

Mindfulness-based approaches can help you learn to stay present and manage stress without judging yourself or your experiences. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help you bring acceptance into your life, and work to reduce the impact that your negative or compulsive thoughts have.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) focuses on improving emotion regulation and distress tolerance skills, while learning to incorporate mindfulness into your routine.  Psychodynamic therapy can help you understand how underlying thoughts and experiences are leading to your self-esteem issues and body image concerns.

Trauma-informed therapy can be used at a recovery center for body image disorders. This approach recognizes the role that past trauma has had on the development of your symptoms, and works to create a safe and supportive space. You’ll focus on healing from your trauma and building a healthier self-image.

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    Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

    We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

    If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

    How Much Does BDD Therapy Cost With Health Insurance Coverage?

    Those who use health insurance often have a significantly reduced out-of-pocket cost for treatment. Insurance coverage does vary among popular health insurance providers, but insurance coverage often includes some, if not more, of the cost of body dysmorphic disorder treatment. You may be responsible for copay, deductibles, and premiums.

    Complete the AMFM insurance verification form for an in-depth understanding of your coverage options, and what you could expect to pay for residential treatment for a body image disorder.

    therapy session with psychologist and patient.

    How Much Does BDD Treatment Cost Without Health Insurance Coverage?

    Without the use of insurance, the cost of body dysmorphia treatment can vary greatly. Inpatient and residential treatment facilities have higher costs than outpatient treatment centers. This is because of the intensive programming, access to professional support around the clock, and fees associated with room and board. Residential treatment can cost between $500 to $2,000 per day.

    Outpatient therapy sessions often fall between $100 to $200 per session. Intensive outpatient treatment programs, including PHP and IOP, generally have higher costs. Those who receive specialized treatment services, psychiatric care, or dual diagnosis care may have higher treatment expenses. Dial (866)478-4383 today for a personalized quote for residential treatment programming.

    The AMFM Mental Health Treatment Center admission process is comprehensive and straightforward. We will spend time learning about your appearance-related anxiety and other body dysmorphic symptoms. This allows us to provide personalized care based on your unique needs. Here is a general overview of our admission process:

    • Initial Contact: Our admission process begins with you reaching out for help. We will ask for your contact information, and a brief summary of your body dysmorphic disorder symptoms and treatment goals.
    • Intake assessment: Our admission counselors will schedule you for an intake assessment.
    • Evaluation and diagnosis: Your evaluation will focus on understanding the root cause of your perceived physical flaws, self-esteem issues and body image concerns. This allows us to determine if our treatment program is appropriate for your needs.
    • Personalized treatment plan development: Using the information gathered in your evaluation, we will then develop your personalized treatment plan.
    • Insurance verification and financial counseling: We will verify your insurance to ensure that you have an understanding of what your out-of-pocket expenses would be before you begin treatment.
    • Admission approval: Your admission approval will be provided when the necessary paperwork and steps of the admission process are completed.
    • Admittance to the program: We will then provide you with an admission date, and help you understand personal items that should and should not be brought to our holistic treatment center.
    • Ongoing monitoring and adjustments: Throughout your treatment, our clinical team will monitor your progress to ensure that you’re receiving personalized care.
    • Studies have indicated that about 80% of those living with body dysmorphic disorder are experiencing active suicidal ideation, or have a history of suicidal ideation.
    • Body dysmorphic symptoms often begin around ages 12 and 13.
    • Some of the common body areas that are perceived physical flaws include the skin, hair, nose, chin, lips, chest, and hair.
    • The  prevalence of BDD ranges from 1.7% to 2.9% in the general population. These rates are higher when you look at individuals who are in certain healthcare settings, including dermatology, general cosmetic, and rhinoplasty surgery settings.
    • Due to stigma, shame, and other factors, there is commonly a ten-year delay between the onset of symptoms and seeking treatment.

    If you have been struggling with your mental health and body image issues, you may find yourself looking into nearby treatment options. There are often several steps to finding holistic body dysmorphia treatment, which may feel overwhelming. To simplify this process, try using the following steps to find your ideal healthcare facility:

    • Search Online: Using popular search engines, use phrases like “Body dysmorphic disorder treatment near me” or “Therapy for body dysmorphic disorder near me”. You can add in your location for precise results. 
    • Ask for Referrals from a Doctor or Therapist: Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor or therapist to discuss your current obsessions with physical appearance and overall distress. You can ask for referrals to an appropriate medical treatment center near you.
    • Contact Local Mental Health Clinics: Reach out to your local mental health clinics and psychiatric hospitals and ask about their available treatment services. These providers may provide specialized care, including cognitive behavioral therapy for BDD.
    • Check with Your Health Insurance Provider: Your insurance provider can provide you with a list of in-network mental health providers and specialty treatment centers that offer treatment for distorted body perception.
    • Look for Specialized Residential or Outpatient Programs: You may be able to access specialized care with local inpatient treatment centers or wellness centers. Use local mental health organizations as a starting point during this search.

    Check if your health insurance will cover the cost of mental health treatment.