Body Dysmorphia Therapy in New York, NY, and California

A Compassionate Approach to Reclaiming Your Relationship with Your Body

At Cornell & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy, we understand how deeply painful and isolating body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) can be. The obsessive focus on perceived flaws — real or imagined — can impact everything from your self-esteem to your relationships, social life, and daily functioning. That’s why we offer thoughtful, individualized body dysmorphia therapy in New York, NY, and California, both in person and online, to help you begin healing from the inside out.

Regardless of whether you’re navigating the relentless pace of Manhattan or the appearance-focused environments of Southern California, it’s not uncommon to feel like your body is constantly under a microscope. But you don’t have to manage those thoughts and feelings alone. We provide a safe and supportive space to work through body image concerns and the underlying emotional experiences that drive them.

Contemplative Therapy

What Is Body Dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts about perceived defects or flaws in one’s physical appearance. These perceived flaws often go unnoticed by others but can feel overwhelmingly real to the individual experiencing them. People with BDD may:

  • Spend excessive time in front of mirrors or avoid them altogether
  • Engage in repetitive behaviors like skin picking, hair styling, or comparing themselves to others
  • Seek reassurance or approval about their appearance
  • Avoid social situations due to shame or embarrassment
  • Experience anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms

Our work as body image therapists in New York, NY, and California is centered on helping you understand these patterns with curiosity and compassion — so that you can begin to loosen their grip and reconnect with your body in a gentler, more integrated way.

Therapy That Looks Beyond the Mirror

Our approach to body dysmorphia therapy is grounded in holistic, relational, and trauma-informed care. We know that BDD rarely develops in isolation. It’s often connected to early experiences of shame, criticism, trauma, or cultural and familial messages around appearance, worth, and control.

In therapy, we focus on:

  • Building awareness of the emotional roots of your body image distress
  • Exploring the role of perfectionism, control, and self-worth
  • Identifying repetitive thoughts and behaviors and understanding their purpose
  • Learning to relate to your body with more kindness and curiosity
  • Challenging internalized ideals from social media, family, or community standards

We integrate evidence-based approaches like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), somatic work, and mindfulness with psychodynamic and Gestalt-informed methods. Each session is tailored to your pace and needs. Our goal is not just symptom relief but a deeper shift in how you experience yourself.

Divorce Mediation

“Suffering is not holding you, you are holding suffering” (Buddha)

In-Person Therapy in New York City and San Diego

Our in-person sessions take place in warm, inviting spaces located in the heart of Manhattan and in San Diego. In New York City, we often work with professionals, artists, students, and individuals navigating high-pressure environments where appearance may be tied to success or social standing. In California, we see clients who are impacted by image-conscious cultural dynamics and personal histories that shape how they view themselves.

We welcome all body types, genders, and backgrounds, and honor the complexity of your story. If you’re searching for body image therapists in New York, NY, and California who understand the nuance and sensitivity required to do this work well, you’ve found a place to start.

Online Body Image Therapy in NY and CA

We also offer remote therapy throughout New York State and California. Many clients appreciate the flexibility and privacy of working with a therapist from the comfort of their home. Whether you’re in Brooklyn, the Bay Area, or a quieter part of either state, our online sessions are just as attuned and relational as our in-person work.

We use secure, HIPAA-compliant video platforms and offer convenient scheduling for clients with demanding work hours or limited local options for specialized care.

Frequently Asked Questions

While many people experience some dissatisfaction with their appearance, body dysmorphia is more intense, persistent, and disruptive. If thoughts about your appearance interfere with your daily life, relationships, or mental health, it may be time to seek support.

Yes. Therapy — especially when it’s tailored to your experience — can be highly effective in reducing the symptoms of BDD and helping you develop a healthier relationship with your body.

Yes, we work with teens, young adults, and adults of all ages. Early support can make a huge difference, especially as body image concerns often begin during adolescence.

Many people with body dysmorphia also experience anxiety, perfectionism, or depression. We’re experienced in treating these interconnected challenges with compassion and skill.

At this time, we primarily offer individual therapy, but we may offer group work in the future. If you’re interested, let us know.

Supporting You Through the Distortions and Disconnection

We know how painful and exhausting it can be to live with constant body image distress. But change is possible — and it starts with being seen, heard, and supported without judgment. So whether you’re in New York, California, or looking for virtual support from either state, we’re here to walk with you on the path toward healing.
Remember: at Cornell & Associates, our body dysmorphia therapy in New York, NY, and California is designed to help you move toward greater self-acceptance, emotional freedom, and wholeness. So we hope you consider reach out to us today. Because you don’t have to do this alone.