Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
A Look at Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) is a type of psychotherapy that is generally considered to fall under the umbrella of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). However, REBT, developed prior to CBT by Albert Ellis during the 1950s, also influenced the development of CBT. Originally known as rational therapy, REBT is an action-oriented modality that may help some patients to replace irrational beliefs and self-defeating thought patterns with positive, healthier beliefs and thought patterns.
What is rational emotive behavior therapy?
At the foundation of rational emotive behavior therapy is the theory that people who have negative thought patterns and irrational beliefs will, as a consequence, engage in self-destructive behaviors. Rather than diving into past traumas as other therapeutic techniques do, REBT focuses on the present time. Its goal is to challenge the patient’s unhealthy thoughts and beliefs in order to replace them with healthier ones. In turn, this may help the patient nurture stronger, more stable relationships—both professional and personal.
What are the core principles of REBT?
The founder of rational emotive behavior therapy, Albert Ellis, theorized that most humans are goal-oriented. They want to achieve their goals and be happy in life. Yet, humans are also prone to irrational thoughts that lead to self-destructive behaviors.
Imagine that you sent your boss an email about a project at work. Your boss is slow to respond, so you begin to worry that perhaps you said something that wasn’t well-received. The next day, you still haven’t received a response, so you start to imagine that perhaps you’ll be fired and you’ll never find another job you like.
This is an example of catastrophizing, which Ellis referred to as “awfulizing.” Catastrophizing refers to imagining the worst possible scenario, even if there is a perfectly logical explanation for what has happened.
In order to counter a person’s tendency toward irrational beliefs that lead to self-destructive behaviors, REBT offers the ABC principles.
- (A) Activating Event – This is the external event that triggers a negative thought pattern.
- (B) Beliefs – These are a person’s irrational beliefs about the trigger event, themselves, and other people.
- (C) Consequence – This is the person’s emotional or behavioral responses to the beliefs.
In conducting REBT therapy, our providers strive to help our patients learn to identify and understand how the activating event leads to beliefs, which in turn lead to consequences. Irrational beliefs may be challenged so patients can learn to develop rational, healthier beliefs and thought patterns.
Who might benefit from REBT?
REBT may be helpful for anyone who struggles with negative thought patterns and irrational beliefs. Although only your therapist can determine if REBT may be appropriate for you, it may be recommended for those with any of the following issues:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Phobias
- Substance use disorder or other addictive behaviors
- Procrastination
- Eating disorders
- Sleeping problems
- Aggression
- Overwhelming emotions, such as rage or guilt
REBT has even been used as a modality in sports psychology, where it may help athletes to strengthen their mental health.
Where can I find REBT in Alabama?
If you’re curious about whether rational emotive behavior therapy could be helpful for you, we invite you to speak with one of our compassionate providers at Integrated Behavioral Health. Contact one of our eight locations throughout Alabama to schedule an appointment. Our team will conduct a thorough assessment and recommend an appropriate treatment plan that suits your unique needs.