Radically Open Dialectal Behavioural Therapy

Radically Open Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (RO-DBT) is an evidence based therapy designed for those who struggle with emotional overcontrol.  Overcontrol is a coping style that includes perfectionism, emotional restraint, high self-criticism and difficulty forming close or trusting relationships.

​

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in the Sutherland Shire, we offer RO-DBT to support adolescents and adults who experience these patterns. Our approach is compassionate, evidence-based and tailored to each person’s needs.

​

Where traditional Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is widely used to help people who experience under-control, such as impulsivity or intense emotional swings, RO-DBT is designed for those at the opposite end of the spectrum. People who are overcontrolled may appear calm, high-achieving or self-sufficient, although often they feel emotionally disconnected, misunderstood, or unable to express their needs. This emotional overcontrol can interfere with relationships, make it difficult to experience joy or spontaneity, and may contribute to long-standing psychological distress.

​

RO-DBT can be particularly helpful for those with treatment-resistant depression, Anorexia Nervosa, Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD), and anxiety that presents with rigidity, perfectionism, or fear of emotional vulnerability.

 

RO-DBT can also be helpful when working with neurodiversity, especially with people who may have a low social battery or prefer routine and predictability. Many people who engage in this therapy describe longstanding patterns of emotional suppression, high self-control, or finding it difficult to express vulnerability, even with those they care about deeply.

​

RO-DBT supports the development of openness, emotional expressiveness, and deeper interpersonal connection. Clients are supported to take small, meaningful steps toward emotional risk-taking, with the aim of building richer and more authentic relationships with others.

​

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology, our clinicians are formally trained and certified in RO-DBT. We work collaboratively with clients to tailor treatment to their goals, pace, and readiness for change. As with many other evidence-based therapies, RO-DBT emphasises validation and self-awareness while gently challenging patterns that may no longer be serving them.

​

Our RO-DBT services can be delivered as a standalone treatment or integrated with other therapies depending on clinical presentation.

​

If you're feeling isolated, disconnected, or stuck in patterns of emotional restraint and self-criticism, RO-DBT may provide a path forward. 

​

Contact Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology on 02 8519 4197 or click the button below to request an appointment.