What is RO-DBT?

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (“RO-DBT”) builds upon the success of traditional DBT to treat a unique spectrum of symptoms. This treatment can be incredibly effective at helping individuals manage high treatment-resistant anxiety, depression, emotional loneliness due to masking emotions, perfectionistic tendencies and self-criticism, overthinking, difficulties letting go of control, and trouble being able to play, laugh, and relax.

RO-DBT helps with disorders such as anorexia nervosa, obsessive compulsive personality disorder, chronic depression, chronic avoidance, perfectionism, treatment-resistant anxiety, and paranoia. RO-DBT teaches skills in the following categories:

learning about how to identify, label, and express emotions more clearly and effectively to others using social signals (facial expressions, body language, gestures, and tone of voice); learning skills to reduce feelings of threat and anxiety in order to feel safe and connected to others

learning to let go of judgments and give others the benefit of the doubt in order to form a close and trusting community

being fully aware of the moment and being present in that moment at all times, without any interpretation or judgement; recognizing urges to either multitask or avoid

learning to forgive others and ourselves; letting go of bitterness, envy, and resentment, as well as our own rules and expectations of ourselves, others and the world

Questions to ask yourself (or a loved one) include:

  1. Do I believe it is important to do things “properly” or “right”?

2.  Am I a perfectionist?

3. Do I prefer order, structure, and rules to spontaneity?

4. Am I quiet, restrained, or reserved by nature?

5. Does it take time for people to get to know the “real” me?

6. Is it difficult for me to try new things without overthinking/planning everything that could potentially go wrong?

7. Do I find it very difficult to be kind to myself when I make a mistake or something goes wrong in my life? 

If you think RO-DBT could be a good fit for you or a loved one, call our intake line at 425-615-0605 for more information about how our program can help you!