Counselling, Psychotherapy
for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Eleos Counselling: Body Dysmorphia Recovery in West Sussex
Counselling Psychotherapy for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) West Sussex
Struggling with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) can be isolating, distressing, and exhausting. At Eleos Counselling, we offer counselling psychotherapy for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) in West Sussex, providing a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your experience and begin to feel more at ease with yourself. Our compassionate therapists understand how painful BDD can be—and how difficult it is to share what you’re going through.
Understanding Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where a person becomes excessively preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance. At Eleos Counselling, we offer counselling psychotherapy for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) in West Sussex to help individuals manage these overwhelming thoughts and regain confidence.
How Counselling Psychotherapy Can Help with BDD
Talking therapy can provide deep emotional relief. Our therapists are trained to offer support for BDD in West Sussex, helping you uncover the roots of your distress and develop healthier ways of relating to your body.
A Compassionate Approach to Body Image Therapy
At Eleos Counselling, we specialise in therapy for body image issues in West Sussex, drawing on trauma-informed, relational models that focus on healing shame, perfectionism, and low self-worth.
How Body Dysmorphia Affects Your Life
BDD doesn’t just affect how you feel—it influences every area of life:
Social Anxiety and Isolation
Many people with BDD withdraw from friends, family, or romantic relationships due to fear of judgment or embarrassment.
Disruption to Work and Study
Preoccupation with appearance can severely impact concentration, motivation, and attendance, sometimes resulting in lost opportunities or dropout.
Mental Health Impacts
BDD often coexists with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and, in some cases, suicidal thoughts. Addressing BDD early is vital for emotional wellbeing.
A Brief History of BDD
Though the term body dysmorphic disorder is relatively modern, the experience has been recognised for over a century. In 1891, Italian psychiatrist Enrico Morselli first described the condition as dysmorphophobia. Since then, our understanding of BDD has evolved significantly, moving from a misunderstood concern to a recognised condition on the obsessive-compulsive spectrum. Today, modern neuroscience allows us to better understand—and treat—the disorder with care and insight.
Contact Us
The Workshop Little East Street,
Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 9NP
Phone: (01403)217300
or (01293) 882210
Mobile: 07854602050
Therapy helped me see beyond the mirror.”
I used to spend hours picking myself apart. Every reflection felt like proof that something was wrong with me. I’d cancel plans, avoid photos, and feel completely trapped in my own skin.
Starting therapy with Tony at Eleos Counselling changed everything. He didn’t dismiss how I felt—he listened, really listened. Together, we began to untangle the fear and shame I’d carried for years.
It wasn’t instant, but over time, the grip loosened. I could go out without obsessing. I could see friends, take photos, even look in the mirror without spiralling.
Therapy didn’t just help me cope—it helped me breathe again.
How do I book a session?
If you’re worried about your own struggles with body dysmorphia or are concerned about someone you care about, you’re welcome to call or email Eleos Counselling using the details on our Contact Us page. All communication is treated with the utmost confidentiality.
Alternatively, you can book an initial assessment session by clicking the button below. This will take you to our secure online diary, where you can choose a time that works best for you.
The Brain and Body Dysmorphia: What Science Tells Us
Research has uncovered several neurobiological features commonly found in individuals struggling with BDD:
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Overactive Amygdala – causing intense anxiety about perceived flaws
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Visual Processing Differences – making it harder to see one’s appearance as a whole
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Impaired Self-Regulation – involving the prefrontal cortex, which influences obsessive thinking
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Serotonin Imbalance – similar to OCD, affecting mood and thought patterns
These findings help guide our approach at Eleos Counselling. We incorporate gentle, research-backed methods into every stage of body dysmorphia recovery in West Sussex.
Our Approach to Body Dysmorphia Recovery
1. Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is considered one of the most effective treatments for BDD. We help you identify and gently challenge unhelpful thoughts, reduce mirror-checking and grooming rituals, and foster more constructive self-talk.
2. Mindfulness and Self-Compassion
Judging your appearance harshly becomes a daily habit for many living with BDD. Our sessions introduce mindfulness practices and self-compassion tools that promote acceptance and reduce fixation on appearance.
3. Rebuilding Self-Esteem
Low self-worth often lies beneath the surface of BDD. We help you develop a stronger sense of identity and self-esteem that is not based on looks but on your values, strengths, and personal goals.
4. Support for Related Conditions
It’s common for BDD to be accompanied by anxiety, depression, or OCD. We work holistically, addressing all aspects of your wellbeing—not just symptoms in isolation.
Why Choose Eleos Counselling?
At Eleos Counselling, we understand that body dysmorphia recovery in West Sussex is not a one-size-fits-all process. We offer:
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A Private, Respectful Environment – free of judgement
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Experienced Therapists – trained in BDD, OCD, and anxiety-related interventions
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Tailored Support Plans – adapted to your pace, needs, and therapeutic goals
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Compassionate, Whole-Person Care – combining psychological insight with kindness
Begin Your Journey Today
Body dysmorphia can feel like it’s taken over your life—but with the right support, healing is possible. At Eleos Counselling, we’re here to help you reconnect with yourself and move toward a more peaceful and fulfilling future.
If you’re ready to begin body dysmorphia recovery in West Sussex, we invite you to contact us today.
📍 Location: Eleos Counselling, West Sussex
📞 Phone: 07854602050
📧 Email: info@eleoscounselling.com
We're here to walk with you
Contact Us
The Workshop Little East Street,
Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 9NP
📞 Call us today: 07854602050
📧 Email us: info@eleoscounselling.com