Psychological disorders often require a variety of treatment methodologies. One of these disorders that may benefit from multiple treatments is body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). BDD creates a distorted image of the body for the sufferer. The individual may focus on defects that do not exist. It often co-exists with depression and anxiety. These are frequent co-morbidities.
A co-morbidity “occurs when people who suffer from one disorder also suffer at the same time from other disorders” (Strangor, 2006, p. 362). BDD is a form of somatoform disorder.
Kayla M. is an 18 year old female client who presents with BDD. Kayla states that for the last approximate nine months, she has had severe social anxiety and depression. She does not believe that she is attractive and repeatedly indicates that she has a poor level of self-esteem. Her mother states that for the last approximate six months, she has become obsessed with what she describes as flaws in her body. She asked her mother for several plastic surgeries for her high school graduation present. She told her mother that she does not want to begin college with her current body and face. According to her symptoms, she would be diagnosed with BDD according to the DSM-IV-TR.
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"Psychological Disorders and Treatment".
The client may benefit from several forms of treatment. Obviously, any psychologist needs to determine what the best forms of treatment are for any client. The treatment should have greater rewards than risks associated with it. Also, the psychologist should try conservative treatments, such as therapy before utilizing any very risky treatments, such as electroconvulsive treatment (ECT). A productive form of therapy allows the client hope (Strangor, 2011, pp. 419-422).
This client would likely benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on the client identifying incorrect thought patterns. By being mindful, the client should realize when he or she is thinking inaccurate thoughts. The client may also benefit from the humanistic type of therapy created by Carl Rogers. Client-centered therapy allows a genuine relationship to develop between the therapist and the client. This close relationship may help to improve the client’s self-esteem, since she will feel that she is a valued aspect of the relationship. The client will realize that her input is vital in her treatment (Strangor, 2011, p. 405).
A second client is a 24 year old male client, identified as Alex P. He returned from a tour in Afghanistan and has had difficulty sleeping since. He complains of nightmares, flashbacks to war experiences and states that he startles easily. He also complains about severe depression and anxiety. He is clearly suffering from Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD affects a significant percentage of soldiers from the war. A diagnosis of PTSD requires a significant stressor event, followed by the individual persistently re-experiencing it. This re-experiencing may occur in a number of ways, such as flashbacks, nightmares or anxiety (Department of Veterans Affairs, 2013).
Research indicates that the use of virtual reality is beneficial in the treatment of PTSD. This is a form of CBT and allows the individual to reenter the dangerous situation in a safe environment. The session may be terminated as soon as the individual begins to feel any discomfort (Strangor, 2011, p. 407). Psychodynamic therapy has also shown benefits in the treatment of PTSD. This therapy would allow the client to become aware of his defense mechanisms. Also, this form of therapy has been helpful to soldiers who killed or injured others. These forms of situations tend to create extremely complex feelings for the client, including extreme levels of shame (Dingfelder, 2012).
It is crucial for a therapist to examine the client’s issues and then research the best possible treatment methodology for a client. What works for one client may not work for another client. It is also crucial to reassess the treatment frequently to ensure that the client is being helped and not hurt by the chosen treatment methodology.
- Department of Veterans Affairs (2013) DSM criteria for PTSD. Retrieved May 17, 2013, from: http://www.ptsd.va.gov/
- Dingfelder, S. (2012, March) A psychodynamic treatment for PTSD shows promise for soldiers. Retrieved May 17, 2013, from: http://www.apa.org/
- Strangor, C. (2011) Introduction to psychology. Irvington, NY: Flatworld Publishers.
