What Is the Treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and How to Find the Right Therapist
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a deeply distressing and often misunderstood condition. People with BDD spend excessive time fixating on perceived flaws in their appearance, flaws that others may not notice at all. The thoughts can feel intrusive, repetitive, and consuming, leading to anxiety, avoidance, and shame.
While it can sometimes look like vanity from the outside, BDD is not about wanting to “look better.” It’s about the anxiety and obsession that something looks wrong and the compulsive mental and behavioral rituals that follow in an attempt to fix or neutralize the discomfort.
The good news is that BDD is treatable with the right, specialized care.
Evidence-Based Treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder
The most effective treatment for BDD is a specialized form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy called CBT-BDD.
CBT-BDD targets both the obsessive thought patterns (“I look terrible,” “Everyone is staring at me,” “I can’t go out until I fix this”) and the compulsive behaviors that reinforce them (checking mirrors, seeking reassurance, excessive grooming, comparing, avoiding social situations).
This approach helps clients:
Recognize and challenge distorted appearance beliefs
Reduce compulsive rituals and avoidance
Build tolerance for uncertainty and self-perceived imperfection
Reconnect with values and confidence beyond physical appearance
Medication, especially SSRIs, can also support treatment when symptoms are moderate to severe, but therapy remains the foundation of long-term recovery.
How BDD and OCD Are Connected
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is part of the OCD spectrum because both involve intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors aimed at relieving distress.
In OCD, the obsession might be about contamination or harm. In BDD, the obsession centers on appearance. Both disorders respond best to structured, evidence-based treatment like CBT with exposure and response prevention (ERP) principles.
That’s why it’s essential to find a therapist who not only treats anxiety or helps with self-esteem, but one who specializes in OCD-related disorders and uses the correct protocols.
Finding the Right Therapist for BDD in Columbus, Ohio
If you or someone you love struggles with BDD, finding a therapist who truly understands this disorder can make all the difference.
Here’s what to look for when choosing a therapist:
Specialization in BDD or OCD: Check that they explicitly list Body Dysmorphic Disorder or OCD as areas of focus, not just anxiety or body image issues.
Training in CBT-BDD or ERP: Ask what evidence-based methods they use. A qualified therapist will mention CBT, ERP, or exposure-based work tailored for BDD.
Comfort discussing appearance fears: You should feel safe sharing your most distressing thoughts without fear of judgment.
Collaborative, compassionate approach: BDD treatment takes courage and trust. Choose someone who moves at your pace and empowers you along the way.
Specialized BDD Therapy in Columbus, Ohio
I’m Bethany Johnson, a licensed therapist and owner of Ember & Oak Counseling in Columbus, Ohio. I specialize in working with adults who experience anxiety, OCD, and Body Dysmorphic Disorder using CBT-BDD and exposure-based approaches.
Together, we’ll identify the patterns keeping you stuck in self-criticism and begin building freedom, confidence, and peace with your appearance and with yourself.
If you’ve been searching for a BDD therapist in Ohio who truly understands the overlap between OCD and body image distress, I’d love to help you begin that healing process.
Book a free 15-minute consultation at by clicking the button at the top of the screen to learn more about how BDD treatment can help you reclaim your life.