Mirror Exposure Practice
A mirror exposure log recording distress before and after, judgements noticed and neutral body descriptions, with reflections on change.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Body image exposure
- Approach / concern
- Body Image & Eating
- Technique
- Body image exposure
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Mirror Exposure Practice?
Mirror exposure is a body image intervention in which clients view and describe their whole body neutrally, reducing avoidance, checking and negative evaluation.
Why it works
A randomized study found mirror exposure improved body image disturbance (Delinsky & Wilson, 2006). CBT approaches to body image include structured exposure and cognitive work (Cash, 2008).
When to use it
- Body dissatisfaction
- Body avoidance or checking
- Eating disorder recovery
- Body dysmorphic concerns (with care)
How to use it in session
- Model neutral descriptions in session.
- Practise whole-body descriptions.
- Rate distress.
- Note judgements.
- Repeat regularly.
Clinician tips
- Describe the whole body, not just disliked parts.
- Avoid long checking sessions.
- For eating disorders, use alongside specialist care and medical monitoring.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Isn’t looking in the mirror body checking?
Checking focuses on disliked parts repeatedly; structured exposure is planned, whole-body and neutral.
What if it makes me feel worse?
Distress often rises at first, then falls with practice. Go at an agreed pace.
References
Delinsky, S. S., & Wilson, G. T. (2006). Mirror exposure for the treatment of body image disturbance. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 39(6), 523-531.
Cash, T. F. (2008). The body image workbook: An eight-step program for learning to like your looks (2nd ed.). New Harbinger.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
