Body image therapy is designed to help individuals who are experiencing distress, shame, or anxiety related to the way they see and feel about their bodies. Whether your concerns are tied to weight, shape, skin, a specific body part, or a more general sense of “not enough,” these struggles can take a heavy toll on your mental health, relationships, and daily life.
At its core, body image therapy isn’t about changing your body—it’s about healing the relationship you have with it.
Body image is the mental picture you have of your body and how you feel about it. This picture is influenced by personal experiences, societal messages, family dynamics, trauma, and more. When your body image is negative, it can lead to low self-esteem, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, or avoidance of social situations.
How Body Image Therapy Can Help
In body image therapy, we work together to:
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Identify the roots of your body image distress
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Challenge harmful beliefs and internalized messages
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Build self-compassion and realistic self-perception
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Explore the impact of media, culture, and community
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Learn tools for managing intrusive thoughts and body-checking behaviors
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Reconnect with your body in ways that feel safe and empowering
This isn’t about toxic positivity or pretending to love everything about your appearance—it’s about creating space for neutrality, acceptance, and eventually, respect.
Helpful Links For Body Image
- ADAA.org - Anxiety and Depression Association of America has many helpful resources regarding body dysmorphic and best ways to cope with this disorder.
- Body Dysmorphic Foundations - BDF helps advance education of the public and healthcare professionals, helping them to understand the nature of BDD and how it might best be treated.
- Mayo Clinic - Offers great overview of body dysmorphic disorder and includes treatments, symptoms and self management help.
Visit Us at Greater Houston Counseling Services
We’re here to offer support whenever you need us. Don’t hesitate to call, text, or book an appointment with one of our knowledgeable therapists for effective therapy at one of our five Greater Houston Counseling Services locations.
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