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What We Treat

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder is a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder where individuals become excessively preoccupied with a perceived or minor flaw in their physical appearance.

Treatment for body dysmorphic disorder at Aster Springs

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) often co-occurs with eating disorders, making treatment more complex. At Aster Springs, our expert clinicians use a combination of evidence-based therapies to address both the symptoms and underlying causes, guiding individuals toward lasting recovery and improved self-esteem.

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Our Approach to treating BDD

Listen in as Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s AVP of Clinical Operations, Kate Fisch, LCSW, CEDS, explains how body dysmorphic disorder is treated at Aster Springs.

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About binge eating disorder

  • While individuals with eating disorders often struggle with body image related to weight and shape, those with BDD experience intense preoccupation with specific features or perceived flaws, regardless of their actual appearance.
  • People with BDD engage in obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors related to their perceived flaws, such as excessive mirror checking, seeking reassurance, or constantly comparing their appearance to others.
  • Although eating disorders and BDD have distinct diagnostic criteria, they share many overlapping symptoms and frequently co-occur. Research shows that 32% of individuals with BDD will be diagnosed with an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

body dysmorphic disorder

FAQs

What is body dysmorphic disorder?

BDD is a mental health condition in which individuals become fixated on perceived physical flaws — often minor or nonexistent. This preoccupation leads to distress, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors like mirror-checking, excessive grooming, or seeking reassurance. 

Though distinct from eating disorders, BDD often co-occurs with them, as both involve obsessive thoughts about appearance and self-worth. BDD can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and mental well-being. Treatment typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and, in some cases, medication to help individuals challenge distorted self-perceptions and reduce compulsive behaviors.

Common signs and symptoms of BDD include:

  • A preoccupation with appearance and excessive focus on one or more perceived defects or imperfections in one's appearance
  • Repetitive or compulsive behaviors and thought processes, including body checking, comparing oneself to others, mirror-checking, and seeking reassurance from others
  • Significant mental and emotional distress that impacts a person's ability to engage at school, work, or social situations
  • Excessive amounts of time spent grooming, checking one's appearance, and adjusting one's appearance
  • Intense feelings of self-conciousness, shame, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem

BED is more than just overeating — it’s a serious, complex eating disorder that requires professional support and evidence-based treatment. If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, seeking specialized care can be the first step toward lasting recovery.

BDD poses serious risks to mental and physical health. Individuals with BDD experience high levels of distress, anxiety, and depression, often leading to social isolation, impaired daily functioning, and a diminished quality of life. The disorder is strongly linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, with research showing that 24–28% attempt suicide, and .3% die by suicide annually.

Additionally, those with BDD have a higher likelihood of psychiatric hospitalization and co-occurring conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and eating disorders. Without proper treatment, BDD can severely impact long-term well-being, making early intervention and specialized care critical.

BDD is best treated with a combination of evidence-based therapies, often similar to those used for eating disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), helps individuals challenge obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also reduce symptoms of anxiety and distress.

When BDD co-occurs with an eating disorder, integrated treatment addresses both conditions simultaneously. Because BDD can be difficult to diagnose due to overlapping symptoms, professional assessment is crucial. A comprehensive approach focusing on body image distress, thought patterns, and emotional regulation supports long-term recovery.

Levels of Care

We’ll meet you where you are. Aster Springs offers a comprehensive continuum of care, bridging the gap between inpatient treatment and general outpatient therapy.

Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (V-IOP)

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Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

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Residential Treatment

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Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

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Our Treatment Approach

At Aster Springs, we address the underlying issues and experiences that contribute to eating disorders while simultaneously challenging the thoughts and behaviors that act as barriers to lasting recovery.

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Body Dysmorphic Disorder Resources

Explore the links below to learn more about body dysmorphic disorder, including symptoms, treatment, recovery, and more.

Explore all resources
  • Blog

When the Mirror Lies: The Types of Body Dysmorphic Disorder

  • Blog

Body Checking + Eating Disorders: A Hidden Cycle of Harm

  • Overviews

A Guide to Body Image

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In-network insurance

Ohio

  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • Beacon
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Cigna
  • Medical Mutual
  • MultiPlan
  • Optum
  • Parkview Health
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Tennessee

  • Aetna
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Cigna
  • MultiPlan
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Virginia

  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Multiplan
  • Optima Health
  • Optum
  • UMR
  • UnitedHealthcare
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Jeffersonville, IN

  • Ambetter
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • CareSource
  • Multiplan
  • Optum
  • Parkview Health
  • PHP of Northern Indiana
  • UMR
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Cincinnati, OH

  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • Beacon
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Cigna/Evernorth
  • Front Path
  • Medical Mutual of Ohio
  • MultiPlan
  • Ohio Health Choice
  • Ohio State University Health Plan
  • Paramount
  • Physicians Health Plan of N. Indiana
  • Optum
  • UMR
  • UnitedHealthcare
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Columbus, OH

  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • Beacon
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Cigna/Evernorth
  • Front Path
  • Medical Mutual of Ohio
  • MultiPlan
  • Ohio Health Choice
  • Ohio State University Health Plan
  • Paramount
  • Physicians Health Plan of N. Indiana
  • Optum
  • UMR
  • UnitedHealthcare
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Nashville, TN

  • Aetna
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Cigna
  • Optum
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Richmond, VA

  • Out-of-network benefits
  • Self-pay
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Executive Director, Ohio

Olivia Dunbar LISW-S

As the Executive Director for Aster Springs Ohio, Olivia is in charge of overseeing the operations of the facility and ensuring quality care for each and every patient who comes through the doors.

Olivia has a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan and received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Michigan State University. Olivia comes to us with almost 7 years experience in the field and previously worked in addiction treatment and was the regional clinical director over 6 inpatient and outpatient facilities. Olivia’s passion is building and growing programs while ensuring the highest quality of care possible for all clients. When it comes to her work, Olivia is extremely invested and believes that every person should be given the opportunity to heal and grow in an environment that is safe and welcoming. The safety and satisfaction of clients and staff are at the forefront of her leadership style. Olivia is happily married to her husband Tyler and she is a proud dog mom to Dolly. In her free time, Olivia enjoys spending time on the lake with her family, traveling, and reading.

Let’s be honest about denial.

Denial keeps eating disorders alive. Eating disorders thrive in secrecy and denial. If you don’t believe you’re sick, why would you seek help? That’s precisely how eating disorders stay in control.

Let’s be honest about denial in parents.

Denial is a natural response — but delaying the proper care can prolong suffering. For many parents, accepting that their child needs eating disorder treatment is an overwhelming and emotional experience. But early, appropriate intervention is key to lasting recovery.

Let’s be honest about isolation.

Eating disorders thrive in isolation, convincing you that you’re better off alone. But the truth is, isolation only makes things worse. It shrinks your world and traps you in a cycle of self-doubt and despair.

Let’s be honest about change.

Change is hard, but so is staying stuck. Living with an eating disorder can feel like the only way to survive. Even when it causes chaos, it becomes familiar — making change feel overwhelming.

Let’s be honest about guilt + shame in parents.

As a parent, it’s heart-wrenching to make the decision to send your child to treatment, especially when that child doesn’t want to go.

Let’s be honest about guilt + shame.

Guilt and shame can trap you in the cycle of an eating disorder, making it challenging to seek the treatment you need.

Let’s be honest about fear in parents.

Deciding to seek treatment for your child is scary — but doing nothing is scarier.

Let’s be honest about fear.

You are stronger than your fears. Treatment is hard, but so is staying stuck in the cycle of an eating disorder. You can do hard things. And on the other side of fear? A life worth living.

Executive Director, Ohio

Olivia Dunbar LISW-S

As the Executive Director for Aster Springs Ohio, Olivia is in charge of overseeing the operations of the facility and ensuring quality care for each and every patient who comes through the doors.

Olivia has a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan and received her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Michigan State University. Olivia comes to us with almost 7 years experience in the field and previously worked in addiction treatment and was the regional clinical director over 6 inpatient and outpatient facilities. Olivia’s passion is building and growing programs while ensuring the highest quality of care possible for all clients. When it comes to her work, Olivia is extremely invested and believes that every person should be given the opportunity to heal and grow in an environment that is safe and welcoming. The safety and satisfaction of clients and staff are at the forefront of her leadership style. Olivia is happily married to her husband Tyler and she is a proud dog mom to Dolly. In her free time, Olivia enjoys spending time on the lake with her family, traveling, and reading.

Executive Director, Outpatient Cincinnati

Natalie Fausey RD, LD

As the Executive Director of Aster Springs Outpatient Cincinnati, Natalie provides both clinical and operational leadership to the team.

She holds a bachelor’s in human nutrition from The Ohio State University and has been a registered and licensed dietitian since 2018. Previously, Natalie served as the clinical dietitian at Aster Springs for three years. She is passionate about food’s multifaceted role in life, from nourishment and enjoyment to fostering connection, culture, and tradition.

Dedicated to empowering her team, Natalie ensures the highest standards of care for every client. Outside work, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, exploring new destinations, and discovering unique coffee shops and restaurants.

Executive Director, Aster Springs VA & Outpatient Richmond

Sara Berry LMHC, MBA

Sara joined Aster Springs Outpatient Jeffersonville as Executive Director in August 2023, bringing nearly 20 years of clinical and operational experience. She has worked in community mental health, inpatient and residential psychiatric treatment, and child welfare services.

She earned a bachelor of arts in psychology and a master’s of education in counseling psychology from the University of Louisville, followed by a master’s in healthcare management from the University of Southern Indiana. Since 2005, she has worked in behavioral health across Jeffersonville and surrounding communities.

In leadership since 2009, Sara has held key roles blending clinical and operational expertise. Her clinical interests include eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and family systems. Passionate about helping others reach their full potential, she enjoys reading, family time, and the outdoors.

Executive Director, Aster Springs VA & Outpatient Richmond

Melanie Vann MA, LPC, NCC

Melanie holds a master’s in counseling psychology from Regent University and is a licensed mental health provider in Virginia.

She began her career treating eating disorders and specializes in trauma-based therapy, DBT, and experiential therapies. She became a certified equine-assisted therapist through EAGALA and a certified life coach through AACC to deepen her expertise. Melanie has worked in various mental health settings, including program development, nonprofits, podcasting, consulting, outreach, and education. She has held roles such as primary therapist, program director, clinical director, and executive director.

Melanie’s client-centered, strengths-focused approach reflects her belief that full recovery from an eating disorder is possible. Passionate about fostering hope, she helps individuals live confident, empowered, and authentic lives.

Executive Director, Aster Springs TN & Outpatient Nashville

Amber Lucchino LCSW, LADAC

Amber is a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field. With 22 years of recovery from an eating disorder, she brings a unique understanding and perspective to her role as a leader at Aster Springs.

Amber earned her bachelor’s in social work from Union University and her master’s from Columbia University in New York City. She has experience in outpatient and residential treatment settings, where she has held positions ranging from direct client care to program management and director roles focusing on staff development and organizational wellness. In addition to eating disorders, she has clinical experience in trauma and co-occurring disorders. She enjoys providing training within the community and has served as an adjunct professor in the department of social work for Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Amber is married and has four children. In her spare time, she can be found at the barn with horses or hiking on nearby trails. She loves cake decorating, spontaneous dance parties, and anything outdoors. Her motto is: “Pay attention to what brings you joy and do more of that.”

AVP of Eating Disorder Admissions

Stefan Glamp

Stefan is the National Director of Alum Services for Odyssey Behavioral Health, leading Aster Springs’ efforts to build compassionate, connected alum communities.

With extensive experience in addiction and mental health recovery, he specializes in fostering community partnerships and supporting clients in their unique recovery journeys, believing long-term recovery is achievable.

Stefan’s approach enhances treatment effectiveness by providing structured, ongoing support for all Aster Springs alums.

AVP of Eating Disorder Admissions

Alycia Aldieri LPC

As AVP of Admissions for Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s Eating Disorder Network, Alycia ensures a compassionate, responsive, and seamless admissions experience.

With a background in residential treatment for adults and adolescents with co-occurring disorders, Alycia holds a master’s in clinical psychology from Benedictine University and a bachelor’s in music therapy from East Carolina University. Her approach integrates clinical expertise, spiritual beliefs, and 12-step principles.

Committed to integrity, compassion, and ethics, Alycia believes recovery is possible for anyone willing to pursue it. She finds deep fulfillment in serving others and is dedicated to guiding clients and families with care and support through every step of the admissions journey.

National Director of Nutrition Programming

Tammy Beasley MS, RDN, CEDS-C

Tammy has over 35 years of experience in eating disorder recovery. She was the first dietitian certified as an eating disorder specialist (CEDS) by iaedp in 1993 and played a key role in securing certification approval for dietitians.

Tammy co-authored the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Standards of Practice for eating disorder RDNs and has developed nutrition programs nationwide. She mentors clinicians, serves as a media resource, and runs a private practice supporting clients and organizations.

Passionate about full recovery, Tammy’s guiding principle is “Do no shame.”

AVP of Clinical Operations

Kate Fisch LCSW, CEDS

As AVP of Clinical Operations for the Odyssey Behavioral Health Eating Disorder Network, Kate plays a key role in shaping Aster Springs’ exceptional clinical care across all levels.

With nearly two decades of experience in eating disorder treatment, Kate has provided direct client care at every level and is deeply committed to clinical supervision. Her passion lies in supporting and developing fellow treatment providers to enhance the quality of care in the field.

Kate earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Indiana University and a master’s in social work from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Medical Director

Dr. Tom Scales

Dr. Scales is the network medical director for Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s eating disorder network, including Aster Springs, where he provides psychiatric and medical care to clients.

He earned his undergraduate degree from Wheaton College, attended medical school at the University of Tennessee, Memphis, and completed his internal medicine and psychiatry residency at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. An advocate for eating disorder awareness, Dr. Scales has delivered community presentations, made media appearances, and hosted the web-based radio show Understanding Eating Disorders.

He is a diplomat on the American Board of Internal Medicine, the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and addiction medicine through the American Board of Preventive Medicine. Most importantly, he is a husband and proud father of two children. 

Chief Executive Officer

Chrissy Hall LCSW

As Group CEO, Chrissy oversees operations, the executive leadership team, and clinical service delivery at Aster Springs.

With over 25 years in behavioral healthcare, she began as a direct care staff member and has since held executive roles in clinical and business development. Her experience spans residential treatment centers, acute care hospitals, outpatient centers, and military treatment programs. Chrissy specializes in clinical best practices, program development, staff education, and quality and compliance for startups.

Passionate about leading teams to provide exceptional care in safe, therapeutic environments, Chrissy holds a master’s in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University and is a licensed clinical social worker.

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Connect with admissions at Aster Springs Outpatient Nashville.

Connect today with the Aster Springs Tennessee admissions team.

Connect today with the Aster Springs admissions team.

Aster Springs Richmond

Located in the heart of Richmond’s West End in Glen Allen, VA, Aster Springs Outpatient specializes in treating adults of all genders, ages 18 and older, who struggle with eating disorders.

Location

3957 Westerre Pkwy., Ste. 208, Richmond, VA 23233

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) of all genders

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP)

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Outpatient Nashville

Located near the heart of downtown Nashville, Aster Springs Outpatient specializes in treating adults of all genders who are struggling with eating disorders. Our programs are LGBTQIA+-affirming and inclusive of all religious preferences.

Location

2900 Vanderbilt Pl., Ste. 200B, Nashville, TN 37212

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP)

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) of all genders

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Outpatient Columbus

Located in the heart of Dublin, Aster Springs Outpatient Columbus offers a warm, sunlit environment that feels like home. We specialize in treating adolescents and adults of all genders — ages 12 and older — who struggle with eating disorders and co-occurring conditions.

Location

3530 Irwin Simpson Rd., Ste. B, Mason, OH 45040

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), evening virtual IOP

Who We Treat

Adults + adolescents (ages 16 & older) of all genders

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Outpatient Cincinnati

Located just northeast of Cincinnati in Mason, Ohio, Aster Springs Outpatient in Cincinnati specializes in treating adolescents and adults of all genders, ages 16 and older, struggling with eating disorders.

Location

3530 Irwin Simpson Rd., Ste. B, Mason, OH 45040

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), evening virtual IOP

Who We Treat

Adults + adolescents (ages 16 & older) of all genders

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Outpatient Jeffersonville

Minutes away from the heart of the Ohio River Valley, Aster Springs Outpatient in Jeffersonville provides compassionate, innovative eating disorder treatment that is inclusive of diverse populations and cultures.

Location

4500 Town Center Blvd., Ste. 103, Jeffersonville, IN 47130

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), evening virtual IOP

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) | Adolescents (ages 13-17)

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Virginia

Aster Springs Virginia is composed of two locations in Richmond, each offering exceptional, compassionate eating disorder treatment within peaceful, comforting environments.

Locations

Manakin-Sabot & Glen Allen

Levels of Care

Residential treatment, partial hospitalization program (PHP) with housing, intensive outpatient program (IOP)

Who We Treat

Adult women (Residential) | Adults of all genders (PHP + IOP)

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, bulimia, OSFED

Aster Springs Tennessee

Located just minutes away from downtown Music City, our multidisciplinary treatment team provides tailored treatment plans designed to meet the unique needs of each client. 

Location

7544 Old Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37221

Levels of Care

Residential treatment, partial hospitalization program (PHP) with housing

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) | All genders

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, bulimia, OSFED

Aster Springs Ohio

Located near a winding creek on a peaceful, private stretch of land in Toledo, Aster Springs Ohio combines evidence-based, whole-person eating disorder treatment with a tranquil, home-like setting. 

Location

5465 Main St, Sylvania, OH 43560

Levels of Care

Residential treatment, partial hospitalization program (PHP) with housing

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) | Adolescents (ages 10-17)

What We Treat

Anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, purging disorder, ARFID, co-occurring mental health conditions