Discover BDD diagnosis, formulation, and treatment in Australia. Our courses cover shame, self-perception, and therapeutic approaches for psychologists.
Australian psychologists and counsellors can build their understanding of Body Dysmorphic Disorder with this course on diagnosis, formulation and treatment. It describes the key features of BDD and the behavioural and cognitive patterns that maintain it, such as checking, avoidance and reassurance seeking. Shame and self-perception are explored as central to symptom maintenance, alongside cognitive distortions and early experience. The course then turns to therapeutic approaches that ease self-critical processes and support clients towards better functioning, self-acceptance and psychological wellbeing.
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: