Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Working with Bodily Focused Distress

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) affects around 2% of the population, making it more common than many better-researched and understood diagnoses such as anorexia.

BDD is characterised by a distressing preoccupation with a perceived defect or flaw in the appearance which is either not visible to the outside eye or, to the outside eye, is simply seen as part of normal human variation.

BDD affects people who identify as females and males almost equally and has one of the highest suicide rates of any mental health diagnosis.

In this training we  consider indications that a client may be experiencing body dysmorphic disorder and associated struggles and how to explore this possibility alongside them.

We delve into the systemic, biological, psychological and interpersonal underpinnings of BDD alongside its clinical presentation and recommended psychotherapeutic approaches. As part of the training, we explore associated manifestations of body-focused distress including eating disorders and how these can overlap and conflate with BDD.

The training includes insights from attachment theory, polyvagal theory, internal family systems theory, voice dialogue and the psychobiology of shame.

Testimonials

“Wow this has given me a totally new outlook and understanding of BDD and how to work with it using a variety of methods and tools/theories which really resonate with me.”

“This workshop was exceptionally enlightening and exceptionally delivered by Nicole. What an amazing woman she is.”

“The event was engaging, informative, interesting and packed with information and skills to take away for the therapist.”