Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT)

Specialized Treatment for Perfectionism, Emotional Overcontrol & Social Disconnection

RO DBT is an evidence-based treatment designed for individuals who struggle with overcontrol: a pattern of excessive self-control, perfectionism, emotional inhibition, rigidity, and difficulty forming meaningful social connections.

At Recovery DBT, our adherent RO DBT program helps clients become more open, flexible, and connected while building lasting emotional well-being.

A Different Approach to Healing

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) is an evidence-based treatment developed by Dr. Thomas Lynch specifically for disorders characterized by excessive self-control, also known as overcontrol. While self-control is generally viewed as a strength, too much of it can become emotionally costly.

People with overcontrol often:

Hide emotions

Set unrealistically high standards

Struggle to be vulnerable

Feel chronically lonely

Appear highly successful while suffering internally

RO DBT helps individuals move beyond rigid coping patterns to build greater openness, flexibility, and genuine social connection.

How RO DBT Differs from Standard DBT

Although they share similar names, RO DBT and traditional DBT treat very different problems.

Traditional DBT was developed for people who experience:

RO DBT was created for people who experience:

Rather than helping people gain more control, RO DBT helps individuals become more open, emotionally expressive, and socially connected.

When Self-Control Becomes a Barrier

Overcontrol refers to excessive self-control that begins interfering with emotional health and relationships.

Individuals with overcontrol often appear calm, responsible, and high-achieving, yet internally experience:

Research has linked maladaptive overcontrol with conditions including:

You May Benefit from RO DBT If You...

Building Connection Through Social Signaling

Unlike many therapies that focus primarily on thoughts and emotions, RO DBT emphasizes social signaling—the subtle ways we communicate with others through:

Facial expressions

Tone of voice

Body language

Eye contact

Posture

Emotional expression

These signals influence how others experience us and play a critical role in developing trust, closeness, and belonging.

RO DBT teaches practical skills that help clients become more socially connected while maintaining their authentic selves.

What Makes Recovery DBT Different

Adherent RO DBT

Treatment delivered according to the evidence-based RO DBT model.

Experienced Clinicians

Our clinicians are trained in both DBT and RO DBT, allowing us to recommend the treatment approach that best fits each client’s needs.

Insurance Accepted

We work with most major insurance providers to make treatment more accessible.

Continuum of Care

From our Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP), we provide support at every level of care.

Integrated Care

Clients can transition between levels of care without disrupting treatment.

Multidisciplinary Team

Our therapists and clinical team collaborate to deliver individualized, comprehensive care.

RO DBT vs Traditional DBT

RO DBT

Standard DBT

Frequently Asked Questions

Is RO DBT evidence-based?

Yes. RO DBT is a fully manualized, evidence-based treatment developed by Dr. Thomas Lynch and supported by more than 25 years of clinical research.

Is RO DBT different from standard DBT?

Yes. Standard DBT focuses on emotional undercontrol and impulsivity, while RO DBT is designed for excessive self-control, perfectionism, rigidity, and social disconnection.

What is overcontrol?

Overcontrol is a pattern of excessive self-control that can contribute to perfectionism, emotional inhibition, loneliness, and difficulty forming close relationships.

Do I need to complete DBT before RO DBT?

No. Previous DBT experience is not required. During your assessment, our clinical team will determine whether RO DBT is the most appropriate treatment for your needs.

How long is treatment?

Our RO DBT Intensive Outpatient Program lasts approximately 14 weeks and meets 3–5 days per week.

What conditions can RO DBT help treat?

RO DBT has been studied for individuals experiencing chronic depression, anorexia nervosa, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, treatment-resistant anxiety, and other conditions characterized by excessive self-control.

Ready to Learn if RO DBT Is Right for You?

If you or someone you love struggles with perfectionism, emotional inhibition, chronic loneliness, or rigid coping patterns, our team can help determine whether RO DBT is the right fit.