Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Diagnosis, formulation & treatment

CE courses & credits for psychologists in United States

US psychologists can learn about BDD diagnosis, formulation, and treatment. Our courses focus on shame, self-perception, and pathways to recovery.

About this course in the United States

This course examines Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a condition characterized by distressing preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance. US clinicians will learn its key features and the behavioral and cognitive patterns that maintain it, including checking, avoidance, and reassurance seeking. The role of shame, self-perception, overvaluation of appearance, cognitive distortions, and early experiences is explored, along with basic therapeutic principles focused on emotional regulation and reducing self-criticism. The course offers CE credits for psychologists through an APA-approved sponsor and supports clients' movement toward self-acceptance.

This talk explores Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a complex mental health condition characterised by a distressing preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance. It examines the role of shame, self-perception & overvaluation of appearance, highlighting how these experiences contribute to significant emotional distress & impairment in daily functioning. Participants will gain insight into common patterns such as checking behaviours, avoidance & reassurance seeking, which often maintain the cycle of distress.The talk also considers the psychological processes underlying BDD, including cognitive distortions, limited insight & the impact of early experiences, while exploring pathways toward recovery. A focus is placed on therapeutic approaches, emotional regulation & reducing self-critical processes, supporting individuals to move toward improved functioning, self-acceptance & psychological wellbeing.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:

Navigating Food Fights & Family Feuds: A Guide for Families Supporting Eating Disorder Recovery
Working with Emotions, Life Events, and Underlying Beliefs - Stage 3 & 4 of cognitive behavioural therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E)
Phases 2 & 3 of CBT for Eating Disorders (CBT-E): Addressing body image
Enhancing Outcomes in Eating Disorder Treatment: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E)
Intuitive Eating & Digestive Health
Deepening Change in Imago Relationship Therapy
Curatorship, Administratorship & Capacity: Ethical and Legal Considerations in South African Practice
Safety, Connection and the Autonomic Nervous System: Attachment Theory and Polyvagal Theory
Understanding ADHD Through an Executive Functioning Lens
Also available for: South Africa · Australia · United Kingdom