Can talk therapy rewire the Brain's body image? a new trial investigates CBT for BDD

NCT ID NCT00106223

First seen Jul 02, 2026 · Last updated Jul 02, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a specific type of talk therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Participants receive 22 weekly one-on-one CBT sessions that teach them to challenge negative thoughts and behaviors about their appearance. The trial compares those who get therapy right away to those on a waiting list, measuring changes in BDD symptoms, mood, and quality of life.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

What this could lead to

If effective, this CBT approach could provide a proven non-drug treatment option for people with body dysmorphic disorder.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with only 36 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The therapy requires weekly sessions and may not work for all.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

body dysmorphic disorder somatoform disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • BDD Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital

    Charlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, United States

  • Body Image Program, Butler Hospital

    Providence, Rhode Island, 02906, United States