RO-DBT Therapy:
Evidence-based RO-DBT therapy in Portland and online throughout Washington—guiding you toward balance, authenticity, and stronger relationships.
Sessions, Benefits, and Certified Therapists
At Abri Psychotherapy™, we’re dedicated to helping you embrace openness and increase your capacity to respond flexibly to life’s challenges. Our personalized approach creates a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment, empowering you to break down barriers and see new possibilities. Through our supportive therapy sessions in Portland, OR, you’ll develop the tools to adapt and thrive, nurturing a mindset that welcomes growth and change in all aspects of your life.
Our RO-DBT Therapists
LiLin Hally
Kirsten McAteer
Shadee Hardy
Alexis Washam
Stacey Gregory Martin
Tess Renirie
Bella Perea
CSWA
Abri Clinician
Valerie Edwards
Frequently Asked Questions About RO-DBT Therapy:
What happens in RO-DBT therapy sessions?
RO-DBT therapy, short for Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy, is a structured and interactive approach that focuses on helping people who struggle with overcontrol. In a typical session at Abri Psychotherapy, your therapist works with you to explore patterns of perfectionism, rigidity, or emotional inhibition that may be getting in the way of your relationships and overall happiness.
Sessions often combine mindfulness, skills training, and experiential exercises. For example, you might practice new social signaling techniques, role-play scenarios that encourage vulnerability, or work through thought patterns that keep you stuck. Therapists also introduce strategies for relaxation, self-expression, and connection so that you can learn to feel safe being more open.
Our certified clinicians create a collaborative space where you feel both supported and challenged to grow. Each ro dbt therapy session is tailored to your personal goals—whether that’s reducing loneliness, managing perfectionism, or improving flexibility in relationships.
How long does RO-DBT therapy last?
The length of ro dbt therapy depends on your needs, but a standard course usually lasts around six months to one year. Many clients participate in:
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Weekly individual sessions (50 minutes each)
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Weekly skills training classes (90 minutes each, often in small groups)
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Between-session practice to apply skills in real-life situations
This structure allows you to both reflect privately with your therapist and practice skills in a supportive community. While progress varies, many clients notice meaningful changes within the first few months. At Abri Psychotherapy, we’ll help you set clear treatment goals and check in on your progress so therapy stays focused and effective.
Is RO-DBT therapy effective?
Yes. Research consistently shows that ro dbt therapy is an evidence-based approach with strong outcomes. Developed by Dr. Thomas Lynch, RO-DBT has been tested in multiple clinical trials and shown to reduce symptoms of chronic depression, anorexia nervosa, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), and maladaptive perfectionism.
The therapy is particularly effective for people who haven’t responded to traditional treatments because it focuses on the unique struggles of overcontrol—something that many other therapies overlook. At Abri Psychotherapy, our therapists combine RO-DBT with other evidence-based modalities to provide comprehensive, personalized care.
What does RO-DBT therapy treat?
Ro dbt therapy is designed for individuals who show patterns of overcontrol—excessive self-restraint that leads to difficulties in emotional expression and social connection. Conditions commonly treated include:
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Chronic depression (especially treatment-resistant forms)
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Anorexia nervosa and restrictive eating patterns
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Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
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Anxiety disorders rooted in rigidity or overthinking
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Perfectionism and social withdrawal
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Maladaptive coping that results in loneliness
If you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing everything right” but still feel disconnected or unhappy, RO-DBT may be the right approach for you.
Where can I find a certified RO-DBT therapist?
Finding the right therapist is key to getting results from ro dbt therapy. At Abri Psychotherapy, we have licensed clinicians trained and certified in delivering RO-DBT. Our team members hold advanced credentials in mental health care, including licensure as Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), and Psychologists (PhD/PsyD).
If you’re searching for ro dbt therapy in Portland, Abri Psychotherapy provides both in-person sessions at our local clinic and teletherapy options for convenience. You can schedule a consultation directly through our site.
Psychological Mental Health Therapy in Portland and Virtually in Oregon and Washington States
Depression & Anxiety
Abri Psychotherapy™ offers compassionate support for depression and anxiety, helping you build resilience, manage overwhelming feelings, and find new ways to navigate life with greater ease and confidence.
Eating Disorders
Through a holistic and personalized approach, Abri helps individuals struggling with eating disorders develop a healthier relationship with food and body image, fostering self-acceptance and balanced, mindful eating habits.
Disorders of Over Control
Abri Psychotherapy™ provides guidance for disorders of over control, such as OCD, treatment-resistant anxiety and depression and restrictive eating disorders, helping you cultivate flexibility and reduce rigidity, empowering you to face fears and embrace a more balanced, adaptable approach to life.
Getting started is simple.
1. Fill out the form.
Take the first step toward a more flexible and connected life. Share your needs with us through our quick form—it’s simple and confidential.
2. Talk to our intake team.
Connect with our team and explore how we can best support your journey.
3. Begin your path to openness and growth.
Dive into therapy with Abri and start building the life you’ve been striving for, one step at a time.
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