Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT)
Learning Flexibility & Openness in West Hartford, CT
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that is proven to help people process and regulate emotions more effectively as well as providing the skills to change or manage detrimental patterns of thinking and behaving. Building upon this foundation, Dr. Thomas R. Lynch developed Radically Open DBT (RO DBT). This evidence-supported approach to therapy is used to help individuals who struggle with over control. Below, you can learn more about RO DBT and how we utilize this therapy approach to support clients who want to change the way that excessive self-control is impacting their lives.
What Is RO DBT?
RO DBT is a form of therapy that utilizes the approaches and methods developed in DBT to specifically target over-controlling behaviors. In order to help individuals achieve greater emotional well-being, RO DBT seeks to increase openness, flexibility, and social-connectedness.
The practice involves looking at where an individual is and helping them to feel open to doing the opposite of what they would naturally be included to do. For individuals who struggle with control, radical openness can help them release some of the rigidness and inflexibility in order to experience more authentic emotional response and connection with other people.
Who Can Benefit from RO DBT?
This form of DBT was specifically developed as an intervention for people who struggle with excessive self-control, and it has been proven impactful for individuals who struggle with a range of concerns, including:
- Anorexia nervosa
- Anxiety disorders (like severe and treatment resistant conditions)
- Obsessive compulsive personality disorder (and other personality disorders)
- Chronic and severe depression
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
How Does RO DBT Work?
It can be difficult to recognize overcontrol as a problem. Self-control is often considered a positive because it shows that a person is able to carefully control their emotions and behaviors in order to ensure their safety, delay gratification, or achieve some other goal. People with high levels of self-control are often strivers who work toward achieving great things. Unfortunately, over-control can make it difficult to adapt and develop resilience to life hanges, and excessive self-control may inhibit the development of healthy interpersonal relationships. RO DBT helps
individuals struggling with over-control to increase emotional wellbeing, improve their relationships, and change damaging behaviors. Like other forms of DBT, RO DBT may involve a combination of individual and group therapy sessions where you will learn and practice new skills with “homework” assignments where you apply your new skills in the outside world.
What Do I Do Next?
If you’re interested in learning more about RO DBT, the trusted therapy team at The Harmony Center for Change would love to hear from you. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have or schedule an introductory session, so you can get to know us a little better. Getting started with our team is easy. You can call our practice or take a few moments to complete our online appointment request form any time.