Body & Somatic Concerns

Body dysmorphia, or body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), is a mental health condition in which a person becomes intensely preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance—often viewing minor or imagined imperfections as significant. Many clients in Milwaukie, Portland, Lake Oswego, West Linn, Gresham, Beaverton, and surrounding communities seek therapy to reduce the distress, shame, and anxiety tied to these appearance concerns and to begin shifting the underlying thoughts that shape negative body image.

BDD can also contribute to the development of eating disorders, which create both emotional and physical harm and, in some cases, can be life-threatening. Because harmful beauty standards and systemic pressures—such as patriarchy, misogyny, and weight stigma—fuel unrealistic expectations about bodies, effective treatment must acknowledge these societal influences as well. At Willamette Wellness Center, our therapists practice from a Health at Every Size (HAES) and trauma-informed perspective, supporting clients in developing a more compassionate, grounded, and empowered relationship with their bodies.

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions involving distressing thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to food, body image, and self-worth. Many clients seeking support—whether through online therapy across Oregon and Washington or in-person sessions at our Milwaukie office—come to treatment to address the emotional roots of these struggles and rebuild a healthier, more compassionate relationship with their bodies.

Clients from Tualatin, Sherwood, Hillsboro, Vancouver, Fairview, Happy Valley, Troutdale, and nearby communities may experience symptoms such as restrictive eating, bingeing, purging, compulsive exercise, obsessive thoughts about weight, and co-occurring body dysmorphia.

Because eating disorders can impact both physical and emotional health, it’s essential to work with a therapist who offers psychoeducation, empathy, and a non-judgmental, trauma-informed space. The goal of therapy is long-term recovery, greater self-awareness, and true empowerment—helping clients reclaim a sense of peace, safety, and confidence in their daily lives.

Chronic and terminal pain or illness refers not only to the physical experience of long-term or life-limiting conditions, but also to the deep emotional and psychological toll they create. Many clients in Milwaukie, Portland, Happy Valley, Hillsboro, Vancouver (WA), Tualatin, and nearby communities seek therapy to cope with anxiety, depression, grief, anger, fear, and the overwhelming adjustments that come with these diagnoses.

Clients often need a therapist who understands the medical and emotional landscape of chronic or terminal illness—someone who can provide psychoeducation, empathy, and trauma-informed support as they navigate the shock of a new diagnosis or the daily realities of long-term health challenges. Therapy offers space to process fear and uncertainty, strengthen coping skills, and find moments of peace and meaning throughout the journey.

Whether clients connect through online therapy across Oregon and Washington or in-person sessions at our Milwaukie office, WWC is committed to offering compassionate care grounded in validation, dignity, and respect.