Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT) in San Antonio, TX
Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Thearpy (RO-DBT) is a newer form of DBT that focuses on individuals who experience overcontrol of emotions, rather than tradtional DBT which treats individual with undercontrol of emotions.
People with emotional overcontrol that may benefit from RO-DBT often appear:
Highly disciplined
Perfectionistic
Rule-governed
Emotionally restrained
Socially isolated
“Too in control” rather than “out of control”
While these traits can be strengths, overcontrol can also lead to chronic loneliness, difficulty connecting with others, rigidity, anxiety, and internalized distress.
Conditions Radically Open DBT Can Help With
RO-DBT is supported for individuals with:
Chronic depression
Eating disorders
Obsessive-compulsive personality traits
Social anxiety
High-functioning autism
People who feel disconnected, isolated, or “cut off” emotionally
How RO-DBT Differs From Traditional DBT
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Traditional DBT
Designed for undercontrol
Helps with intense emotions, impulsivity, and crisis behaviors
Focuses on emotion regulation and distress tolerance
RO-DBT
Designed for overcontrol
Helps with rigidity, perfectionism, emotional inhibition, and social isolation
Focuses on openness, flexibility, and social connectedness
Where traditional DBT teaches people how to slow down and regulate emotions, RO-DBT teaches people how to open up, connect more authentically, and soften rigid patterns.
What to Expect in RO-DBT Therapy
RO-DBT uses a different style than traditional DBT, and many clients find it more playful and socially focused.
1. Individual Therapy Focused on Openness and Flexibility
Sessions help increase emotional expression, break rigid patterns, and foster more fulfilling relationships.
2. Skills Classes
These classes teach the core RO-DBT principles, including:
Radical openness
Social safety
Flexible responding
Expressive warmth
Genuine connection
3. Behavioral Experiments
Clients often practice small, structured steps to challenge perfectionism or emotional restraint.
4. A Strong Emphasis on Social Connectedness
RO-DBT assumes that secure, healthy relationships are central to emotional wellbeing.
Is DBT or RO-DBT Right for You?
You may benefit most from traditional DBT if you:
Experience intense mood swings
Act impulsively when overwhelmed
Struggle with self-harm or crisis behaviors
Have difficulty calming down
You may benefit most from RO-DBT if you:
Tend to bottle things up
Feel chronically lonely despite wanting connection
Struggle with perfectionism or rigid routines
Appear “high functioning” on the outside but feel isolated inside
Have a difficult time expressing emotions
Both approaches offer powerful, evidence-based tools—just tailored to different emotional profiles.
Schedule an Appointment with a Therapist Specializing in Radically Open DBT
At Sonatus Counseling, our therapists are here to support and guide you every step of the way. If you’re interested in exploring DBT or RO-DBT, and wondering whether it’s the right fit, we’re here to help.
Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our DBT trained clinicians and begin your journey today toward positive change.