DBT or RO-DBT: Which Is Right for You?

If you’ve been exploring therapy options and wondering what type of DBT is the best fit, you’re in the right place. While Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who struggle with undercontrol—like emotional outbursts, impulsivity, or self-destructive behaviors—Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT) is built for those dealing with overcontrol, including perfectionism, social withdrawal, and emotional inhibition.

Our interactive quiz is designed to help you understand which approach—DBT or RO-DBT—may be more aligned with your needs.

What This Quiz Is (And Isn’t)

This quiz is part of our interactive mental health assessment series, built to help you reflect on emotional patterns and make more informed decisions about your care. It draws on key indicators that differentiate undercontrolled and overcontrolled coping styles, both of which can lead to emotional pain but require very different treatment approaches.

It’s important to remember: this quiz isn’t a diagnosis. It’s a guided reflection to help you explore whether your current challenges may point you toward DBT, RO-DBT, or something else entirely.

When to Take This Quiz

This quiz might be a helpful next step if:

• You’ve been recommended DBT but don’t feel it quite fits—or you’re unsure why.
• You identify with traits like emotional outbursts, impulsivity, or relationship chaos.
• You tend to be rigid, perfectionistic, emotionally reserved, or socially withdrawn.
• You’ve struggled with loneliness, high self-control, or feeling misunderstood.
• You’re curious about what kind of emotional support you actually need.

Using the Quiz Wisely

• Answer honestly based on your typical experiences.
• Reflect on what your results mean for you—not as a label, but as insight.
• Take action if you feel ready—by talking to your therapist, exploring a DBT or RO-DBT program, or simply continuing your self-exploration.

You’re Not Alone

Whether your challenges lean toward undercontrol or overcontrol, there’s a path forward. The right therapeutic approach can make a huge difference—but first, you need to understand how you operate emotionally.

Whatever your results, taking the time to reflect is a meaningful first step. If you’re unsure what to do next, book a free information session to chat more about your results. We’re here to help you find the right fit.

Start the Quiz

Curiosity is the first step toward change. Let this be the beginning.