Understanding Body Image and Body Dysmorphia

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our psychologists and counsellors provide evidence-based therapy for poor body difficulties and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) for children, adolescents and adults across the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney. Sessions are available in person at our Menai practice and via secure online appointments across Australia.

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Body image influences how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we move through everyday life. When body dissatisfaction becomes persistent or distressing, it can affect confidence, relationships and overall quality of life.

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Poor Body Image May Present As:

• constant comparison with others

• dissatisfaction with appearance

• frequent checking or reassurance seeking

• avoidance of mirrors or photographs

• withdrawal from social situations

• intense self-criticism about appearance

 

For some, poor body image may occur alongside Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression or Trauma.

 

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

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Body Dysmorphic Disorder involves a preoccupation with perceived flaws or imperfections in appearance that may not be noticeable to others. This focus can lead to significant distress, repetitive checking behaviours, avoidance and social withdrawal.

 

BDD commonly occurs alongside anxiety, obsessive-compulsive patterns, depression, and eating disorders.

 

Understanding Poor Body Image

 

Poor body image can develop for many reasons, including bullying, trauma, perfectionistic traits, low self-worth or societal pressures. Over time, these experiences may shape how someone relates to their body and their sense of identity.

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Early, evidence-based therapy can help people recognise the patterns that maintain body dissatisfaction and begin developing a more compassionate and flexible relationship with their body.

 

Body Image Therapy in Menai and the Sutherland Shire

 

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology, therapy focuses on understanding the emotional, cognitive and social factors that contribute to poor body image.

 

Where relevant, therapy may be integrated within Eating Disorder Counselling, Adolescent Counselling, or Adult Counselling, depending on developmental stage and individual needs.

 

Our clinicians draw on a range of Eating Disorder Therapies, tailored to each person’s goals and experiences. Approaches may include:

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• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for BDD

• Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO-DBT)

• Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)

• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

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Eating disorder therapy at Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology is delivered by clinicians with specialised training in evidence-based treatment approaches, adhering to national clinical guidelines and best-practice standards.

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Related Eating Disorder Information

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You may also wish to explore related eating disorder information:

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• Anorexia Nervosa

• Bulimia Nervosa

• Binge Eating Disorder

• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

• Disordered Eating

• Eating Disorder Therapies

• Eating Disorder Counselling

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​Sessions are available in person at our Menai practice in the Sutherland Shire, or via secure online sessions across Australia.

 

If you’re unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist. Call 02 8519 4197 or use the button below to request an appointment.