Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT)

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT) is an evidence-based treatment informed by over 20 years of clinical and experimental research.

RO-DBT targets a variety of disorders characterized by excessive self-control, often referred to as overcontrol. Self-control is usually seen as a good thing. It means having an ability to inhibit or control your emotions, desires or behavior. But did you know that too much self-control can cause problems?

What is Overcontrol?

Overcontrol is when someone controls their emotions and behaviors to the point of harming their own well-being.

Overcontrol signs and symptoms are when you or a loved one:

  • Is not a risk taker and is generally not open to new experiences
  • Needs structure and order
  • Has a strong desire to “fix”
  • Exhibits rule-governed behavior
  • Has a low awareness of emotions, often has disingenuous emotional expressions
  • Notices details that others are not likely to notice
  • Has a high capacity for self-control

Who can benefit from RO-DBT?

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT) is designed to help many types of conditions, including symptoms that are not responding to standard care. We help adult patients with diagnoses that can include:

  • Chronic Depression
  • Treatment-Resistant Disorders
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Anorexia Nervosa
  • Avoidant, Paranoid and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorders
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Schizoid and Schizotypal Personality Disorders
  • Internalizing Disorders

Our Program

The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a seven-week program with two hours of skills classes daily Monday through Thursday. Patients have one individual session each week with their primary therapist.

In our outpatient treatment program:

  • Patients are introduced to multiple skills designed to improve their mental health through openness, flexibility and forming social connections.
  • Skills coaching between sessions is available and patients can continue to work and engage in activities of daily living.
  • RO-DBT may be used concurrently with other forms of psychotherapy. However, patients can pause additional psychotherapy while participating in IOP.

Call us today at 314-289-9411 or email [email protected] to start on a road to a better tomorrow.

We’re Only a Phone Call Away

If you would rather reach our Intake Coordinators by phone, please call 314-289-9411 to discuss appointment scheduling if you or a loved one may be experiencing a mental health issue. For additional questions about our programs, you can also use our online contact form.

In the case of a medical emergency or crisis, please dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Help and hope are closer than you think.

Personalized mental health treatment is ready for you. We are here to help.

Contact Us

New patients please call Intake Coordinators at:

City of St. Louis, Missouri (Macklind)

1129 Macklind Ave,
St. Louis, MO 63110
314-534-0200 (returning patients)

Chesterfield, Missouri (West County)

16216 Baxter Rd. Stes 205 and 225,
Chesterfield, MO 63017
636-532-9188 (returning patients)

Fairview Heights, Illinois

331 Salem Place, Suite 225-A,
Fairview Heights, IL 62208
618-825-0051 (returning patients)