RO-DBT
A treatment for people who feel over-controlled, stuck, or emotionally isolated—even if they appear “high-functioning.”
Who RO-DBT Is For
This may be a good fit if you:
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Feel emotionally closed off, numb, or disconnected from others
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Are highly self-controlled, perfectionistic, or rigid
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Struggle with loneliness despite appearing successful
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Tend to suppress emotions rather than express them
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Feel “stuck” even after trying traditional therapy
RO-DBT is not for people who:
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Primarily struggle with emotional impulsivity or crisis behaviors
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Are seeking short-term symptom relief without deeper behavioral change
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Are not open to practicing new ways of relating to others
The Problem
RO-DBT Addresses
Many people who struggle don’t look like they’re struggling.
They may be disciplined, productive, logical, and outwardly “fine”—yet feel:
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Disconnected from others
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Emotionally flat or guarded
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Chronically lonely or misunderstood
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Stuck in rigid thinking or routines
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Exhausted from holding everything together
Traditional therapy often focuses on reducing emotional intensity.
For over-controlled individuals, the problem is often the opposite: too much control.
What RO-DBT Is
RO-DBT (Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy) is a specialized treatment designed specifically for over-control. Rather than teaching you how to calm emotions, RO-DBT focuses on
Increasing emotional openness
Building social signaling and connection
Improving flexibility and responsiveness
Reducing rigidity and isolation
The goal is not to change who you are, but to help you relate to others—and yourself—more openly.
How RO-DBT Helps
People who engage in RO-DBT often report:​​
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Stronger, more authentic relationships
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Greater emotional range and expressiveness
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Less loneliness and social withdrawal
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Improved flexibility in thinking and behavior
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A greater sense of connection and vitality​
Progress is measured not just by symptom reduction, but by how connected and engaged life feels.
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How RO-DBT Fits Into Care
RO-DBT can be:
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A primary therapy approach
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Integrated with individual therapy
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Used alongside psychiatric care when appropriate
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Treatment is collaborative and tailored to your specific patterns of over-control.
What to Expect
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An initial consultation to assess fit
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Structured sessions focused on skills and real-world application
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Ongoing support as you practice new ways of responding emotionally and socially
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A pace that respects your capacity for change without forcing vulnerability
Why Our Approach
Our clinicians are trained to identify over-control patterns that are often missed in traditional therapy settings.
We emphasize:
Evidence-based care
​Respect for your strengths
Practical, real-world change
A warm, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship
Practical Details
Available for adults
and older adolescents
In-person and virtual options (location-dependent)
Flexible scheduling
Insurance and self-pay options available