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.

Contact Us

New patients please call Intake Coordinators at:

314-289-9411

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)

Belleville, Illinois

521 W. Main St. Ste 201B,
Belleville, IL 62220
618-825-0051 (returning patients)