Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy is an evidence-based treatment designed for individuals who struggle with overcontrol—a coping style characterized by:

1. Excessive self-control

2. Rigidity

3. Difficulty with emotional expression

4. Difficulty connecting with others

Overcontrol often goes unnoticed because it can look like “having it together.” Many individuals are high-functioning and successful, yet quietly struggling.

Common signs include:

1. Strong perfectionism and high internal standards

2. Rigid thinking (e.g., “there’s a right way to do things”)

3. Difficulty relaxing or engaging in unstructured time

4. Difficulty expressing vulnerability

5. Preference for control, predictability, and routine

6. Sensitivity to mistakes (self or others)

7. Interpersonal challenges (e.g., feeling misunderstood, distant, or lonely)

8. Tendency toward overworking or over-responsibility

How is RODBT different from other therapies?

Many traditional approaches—such as CBT or standard DBT—focus on helping individuals regulate overwhelming emotions, reduce anxiety, or manage impulsive behaviors. These approaches are highly effective, but may not fully address the needs of individuals who are overcontrolled.

RODBT differs in a few key ways:

1. Focus on overcontrol (not undercontrol)
Rather than targeting emotional reactivity or impulsivity, RODBT addresses excessive inhibition, rigidity, and emotional constraint.

2. Emphasis on social signaling and connection
RODBT recognizes that emotional loneliness is often at the core of overcontrol. Treatment focuses on helping individuals express themselves more openly and build deeper, more authentic relationships.

3. Encourages flexibility over perfection
Instead of reinforcing structure or control, RODBT gently challenges rigid rules.

4. Behavioral experiments that feel unfamiliar (but important)
Clients are often encouraged to practice doing things differently—letting go of control, tolerating imperfection, or engaging in behaviors that feel less rehearsed or planned.

RODBT may be a good fit for you if, on the outside, you seem like you have it all together—but on the inside, things feel more rigid, stressful, or disconnected than you’d like.

You might relate to some of the following:

1. You hold yourself to very high standards and struggle to feel “done” or satisfied

2. You like structure and control—but find it hard to relax or be spontaneous

3. You often think in terms of a “right” or “best” way to do things

4. You feel frustrated when others don’t meet your expectations (even if you don’t always show it)

5. You have a hard time expressing emotions or being vulnerable with others

6. People may see you as capable and put-together, but you sometimes feel misunderstood or alone

7. You tend to overwork, overthink, or take on too much responsibility

8. Rest or downtime feels uncomfortable, unproductive, or hard to enjoy.

You don’t need to have a specific diagnosis to benefit from this work. Some individuals may identify with traits of Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder, while others simply recognize patterns of perfectionism, rigidity, or overcontrol in their lives.

RODBT is based on the idea that well-being isn’t just about feeling less distress—it’s also about being more open, flexible, and connected.