Learning RO-DBT: How This Therapy Supports Connection and Flexibility
What is RO-DBT?
Hi everyone, welcome back to Unpack That with Becca Allen. Today I want to talk about a therapy approach I’m trained in and truly passionate about: Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT).
If you’ve seen “DBT” mentioned before but aren’t sure what RO-DBT means, you’re not alone! Let’s clear it up.
What is RO-DBT?
RO-DBT stands for Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
It’s an evidence-based treatment developed specifically for people who struggle with overcontrol.
What does “overcontrol” mean?
It refers to patterns like:
Perfectionism
Rigid thinking or strict personal rules
Emotional inhibition (holding feelings in)
High self-criticism
Difficulty relaxing or “letting go”
Trouble connecting deeply with others
While these traits can sometimes be strengths, they can also lead to problems like chronic depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive traits, or feeling lonely and disconnected even around others.
RO-DBT helps clients learn to:
Increase openness and flexibility
Express emotions more authentically
Build genuine social connections
Reduce harsh self-criticism
It’s especially helpful for people who do everything right on the outside but feel disconnected or stuck on the inside.
How is RO-DBT Different from Standard DBT?
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) is well-known for helping undercontrol issues—like big emotions, impulsivity, self-harm, or risky behaviors.
RO-DBT was designed for the opposite problem: too much self-control.
It doesn’t mean clients need less responsibility, it means they need help softening rigid patterns, embracing vulnerability, and creating real connections.
My RO-DBT Training in Chicago
Photos of Northwestern University (where the training was located), Me freezing underestimating how cold it would Be for April and all the snow, Overpacked as always, and then an excellent snack set up.
I completed my intensive RO-DBT training in Chicago, Illinois, in 2018.
This wasn’t your average training. It was a two-part, advanced training program led by the developers of RO-DBT themselves.
I attended my first week of intensive training in April 2018.
Six months later, I returned for another full week in October 2018.
During these trainings, I:
Studied the RO-DBT treatment manual and supporting research in depth
Learned the theory behind overcontrol and its impact on mental health
Practiced specific RO-DBT skills and strategies in detail
Participated in supervision and consultation to apply the model effectively with real clients
Standard therapies often didn’t address the core of these issues. RO-DBT offered something truly different.
Why I Use RO-DBT in My Practice
At Becca Allen Counseling, I’m committed to using evidence-based, meaningful approaches that truly fit my clients’ needs.
RO-DBT is one of my favorite modalities because it:
Recognizes that overcontrolled clients aren’t “broken” they’re often caring, conscientious, and doing their best.
Provides concrete, research-backed skills to create real change.
Focuses on social signaling and connection,helping clients move from isolation to authentic relationships.
Reduces suffering while celebrating true authenticity.
If you’re someone who struggles with being too hard on yourself, finds it hard to open up to others, or feels stuck in rigid patterns, RO-DBT might be a great fit for you.
Let’s Talk
If you’re curious about RO-DBT or want to know if it’s right for you, feel free to reach out.
I’m here to help you find the approach that best fits you whether it’s RO-DBT, intuitive eating support, perinatal mental health care, or simply a warm, collaborative space to explore what you’re going through.
Thanks for reading. I’m so glad you’re here.
Resources:
The Radically Open DBT Workbook for Eating Disorders offers a practical, evidence-based guide for individuals struggling with overcontrolled eating disorders marked by rigidity, perfectionism, and social isolation. Grounded in RO-DBT principles, it provides clear explanations, self-assessments, and structured exercises to help readers build emotional openness, flexibility, and stronger connections with others. Designed for use alone or alongside therapy, the workbook stands out for translating a research-backed treatment into accessible, engaging tools that support lasting recovery through cultivating trust, vulnerability, and social belonging.
