Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy in 42 States

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Is RO DBT Right for You?

Do you struggle quietly to overcome perfectionism that has left you jaded and feeling lonely or disconnected? Have you tried traditional counseling but felt like it didn't do much for you? 

If this sounds like you, then Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) might be the missing piece towards lasting change!

Hi there, I'm Dr. Beatriz Mann!

I am Dr. Beatriz Mann, a licensed psychologist based in St. Petersburg, Florida offering online therapy sessions in 42 states via PSYPACT. One of my specialties is an approach known as RO DBT, an evidence-based treatment that helps individuals who struggle with extremely difficult to treat symptoms of emotional overcontrol, perfectionism, treatment-resistant depression, and more.

My clients tend to be highly driven, perhaps rigid or rule-governed in their behavior (i.e., you go to the party because you feel you should, not because you want to), have learned to mask their feelings, or struggle to be vulnerable with others. If any of this sounds familiar, then I can help you!

What Is RO DBT For?

RO DBT is an evidence-based treatment designed for people who tend toward emotional overcontrol, or "OC" for short. This can look like perfectionism, emotional restraint, difficulty relaxing, or feeling disconnected from others—even when everything appears “together” on the outside. 

Many of my clients come to me after trying other forms of counseling that didn’t address these deeper patterns. In addition to helping my clients understand how their symptoms affect their lives and relationships, I also provide them with the tools and skills necessary to manage their symptoms for lasting recovery.

How Does RO DBT Work?

RO DBT targets the underlying mechanisms of overcontrol, especially around emotional expression and social connection. Instead of focusing on managing distress, we prioritize openness, flexibility, and learning how to engage more authentically with others.

Achieving lasting change is not always quick or easy, especially when in regards to treatment-resistant symptoms. Therefore, RO DBT involves committing to multiple sessions in order to understand the mechanisms behind those symptoms, and establish the framework necessary for meaningful improvements in relationships, mood, and overall well-being.

What Do RO DBT Sessions Look Like?

RO DBT with me tends to look like a blend of playfulness and compassion. Through our online sessions, we will work together to clearly identify your valued goals (what you want to see change or improve in your life), figure out what symptoms and behavior patterns might be getting in the way of those goals, and practice concrete skills to help you get closer to your goals. 

Change and growth might not always feel comfortable, but it might be the very thing that shakes up old habits and patterns to help make way for new learning!

Can I Work With You?


Though I am based out of St. Petersburg, Florida, my RO DBT sessions are available for individuals across all PSYPACT-participating states. You can find a list of of eligible states on my website here.

For convenience, here is a map showing all of the states that I can work in. If your state is highlighted in dark blue, then I can work with you!

Map of PSYPACT-participating states as of July 24th, 2026

Photo courtesy of PSYPACT® (Updated July 24th, 2026)

https://psypact.gov/page/psypactmap

All You Need to Know About RO DBT Therapy

FAQs

Q: Is RO DBT Evidence-Based?

A: Yes! Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT) is an evidence-based treatment for conditions associated with excessive self-control, including chronic depression, treatment-resistant anxiety, anorexia nervosa, and OCD.

Q: What Makes RO DBT Different From Regular DBT?

A: Traditional DBT is intended for people who experience emotional undercontrol, such as intense emotional swings or impulsive behaviors. RO DBT, on the other hand, was created for people who are overcontrolled—those who tend to be highly perfectionistic, emotionally restrained, rule-governed, and self-critical.

Q: What Is RO DBT Used For?

A: RO DBT is useful for individuals with an overcontrolled coping style and is used to treat chronic depression, treatment-resistant anxiety, anorexia nervosa, and certain forms of OCD. It may also benefit people struggling with maladaptive perfectionism, emotional inhibition, social isolation, and rigid thinking patterns.

Q: Can RO DBT Help With ADHD?

A: RO DBT is not considered an official treatment for ADHD. However, some RO DBT techniques may be helpful for individuals who have ADHD and exhibit an overcontrolled coping style.

Q: Can RO DBT Help With Anxiety?

A: RO DBT can be an effective treatment for certain types of anxiety, particularly when anxiety is driven by perfectionism, excessive self-control, or rigid coping patterns. During our work together, I'll determine whether RO DBT or another evidence-based approach is likely to be the best fit for your specific concerns.

Q: Can RO DBT Be Done by Telehealth?

A: Yes, RO DBT can be effectively provided through secure online therapy. Virtual RO DBT sessions allow you to participate in treatment from the comfort of your own home while still engaging in the structured work that this treatment method involves.

Q: How Do I Find an RO DBT Provider in My State?

A: Because RO DBT is a specialized treatment, it's important to look for a therapist who has completed formal RO DBT training and uses it regularly rather than someone who simply lists it among their many other therapeutic approaches. Luckily for those in Florida or another participating PSYPACT state, I offer online RO DBT and would be happy to discuss whether it's the right approach for your needs!

Let Me Help You!

Therapy shouldn't have to feel overly clinical or intimidating. That's why I focus on creating a cozy, welcoming environment where you can show up exactly as you are and feel completely heard!

If you’re ready to move beyond white-knuckling your way through life and start experiencing more connection and ease, I’d love to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation!

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