Body Image
Body image refers to how we perceive and feel about our physical appearance, including thoughts and emotions about size, shape and skin colour. Influenced by cultural, social and personal factors, it affects self-esteem and confidence. Positive body image supports well-being, while negative views can cause dissatisfaction, making it vital for mental and emotional health.
What are the common symptoms?
Body dissatisfaction is a common psychological concern that affects individuals across all ages and genders. It involves negative thoughts and feelings about one’s physical appearance, often influenced by societal standards and media portrayals. Recognising its signs is essential, as prolonged dissatisfaction can lead to mental health challenges, including eating disorders and low self-esteem.
- Excessive Body Checking
- Avoidance Behaviours
- Persistent Negative Self-Talk
- Preoccupation with Weight and Shape
- Emotional Distress
- Disordered Eating Patterns
- Comparative Behaviour
- Impact on Daily Functioning
Why do I feel like this?
Social Comparison
Cultural and Societal Norms
Past Experiences
Psychological Factors
Media Influence
Internalised Beliefs
How does therapy help?
Therapy can be a powerful tool for addressing body dissatisfaction, which often stems from unrealistic beauty standards, negative self-perception, and emotional distress. Through evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques, therapy helps individuals challenge harmful thoughts, build self-compassion, and develop healthier coping strategies. It provides a safe space to explore underlying issues, such as trauma or societal pressures, and promotes sustainable behavioural changes. By fostering resilience and improving emotional regulation, therapy empowers individuals to appreciate their bodies beyond appearance, enhancing overall mental well-being and quality of life.
Cognitive Restructuring
Therapy challenges distorted thoughts about body image, replacing them with realistic, positive beliefs. This reduces self-criticism and promotes healthier self-perception, improving confidence and emotional stability.
Behavioural Interventions
Therapists encourage gradual exposure to feared situations, like wearing certain clothes, reducing avoidance behaviours. This builds tolerance and decreases anxiety linked to body dissatisfaction.
Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness techniques help individuals stay present, reducing obsessive body-checking and comparison. It fosters acceptance and self-compassion, shifting focus from appearance to overall well-being.
Addressing Underlying Issues
Therapy explores root causes such as trauma, bullying, or cultural pressures. Understanding these factors enables personalised strategies for healing and long-term improvement.
Improved Emotional Regulation
Therapy teaches coping skills for managing emotions like shame or anxiety. This prevents harmful behaviours, such as restrictive dieting, and promotes balanced mental health.
Building Self-Compassion
Therapists guide clients to treat themselves kindly, reducing harsh self-judgement. Self-compassion enhances resilience, body appreciation, and overall life satisfaction.
What are the therapy options that Transformations Clinical Psychology can offer me?
Please contact us or follow this link if you would like to set up an assessment with a psychologist at Transformations Clinical Psychologist.
Meet Our Team
Meet our friendly and experienced team, here to help you with confidence and care.
Amy Wang
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We are here to support you
Please contact us or click on this link if you would like to see one of our experienced psychologists
FAQ
Q1. What happens in the first session? Do I need to prepare?
Your first appointment is 50–60 minutes. We’ll get to know you—what’s been hard, what you’d like to change, and what’s helped before. You’re welcome to bring notes or just come as you are; we’ll go at your pace. Please complete the online intake and consent forms beforehand. Sessions are available in person (Sydney) or via secure telehealth across Australia. We’ll finish with a clear plan and time for your questions. If you’re in immediate danger, call 000.
Q2. How do fees and Medicare/private insurance work? Do I need a GP referral?
You can book without a referral. If your GP provides a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate. We’ll check your eligibility and confirm your out-of-pocket cost before you commit. Private health (Extras) can’t be claimed with Medicare for the same session—please check your fund for coverage. If cost is a concern, let us know and we’ll talk through options.
Q3. Will my information be kept confidential?
Yes. Your sessions and records are kept private under strict legal and ethical standards. There are a few exceptions—if there’s a serious risk of harm, concerns about a child or vulnerable person, or a court order. If we ever need to share information, we’ll explain why, what will be shared, and involve you as much as possible.