The purpose of this research study is to learn which of two different forms of therapy (treatments) is more likely to help individuals who have body image concerns. The two treatments we are comparing are called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Supportive Psychotherapy (SPT). Participants will be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to receive either CBT or SPT. Both treatments teach participants about Body Dysmorphic Disorder, or BDD. CBT for body image concerns is a promising new treatment whose effectiveness the study will test. The study will also test the effectiveness of SPT, which appears to be the most widely used therapy in the community to treat body image concerns and related problems, such as low self esteem or problems with family members or friends.

For each participant, this study will last for 12 months. This includes 22 weekly therapy sessions over 24 weeks, along with monthly assessment visits throughout the study and at 3- and 6-months after treatment ends.

If you would like to take part or would like more information about the study, please call the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Clinic at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) at 877-4MGH-BDD (877-464-4233) or email BDD@partners.org.

Institution  –  MGH - Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA

Principal Investigator  – Sabine Wilhelm, PhD

  

For further information about enrolling a patient in this trial, contact the person below.

Name  – Anne Wilson

Phone  – (877) 4MGH-BDD