What is Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy?
Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT) is a type of therapy that helps people understand and change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It focuses on the idea that our thoughts and beliefs affect how we feel and act. By identifying and challenging irrational beliefs, REBT aims to replace them with more rational and helpful ones.
According to David et al. The core of REBT is the “ABCDE” model. According to this model, people experience activating events (A) and have both rational and irrational beliefs (B) about these events. These beliefs lead to emotional, behavioural, and cognitive consequences (C). Rational beliefs have positive outcomes, while irrational beliefs result in negative outcomes. These consequences can then become activating events themselves, leading to secondary consequences.
In REBT, clients are encouraged to actively dispute (D) and restructure their irrational beliefs and adopt more efficient (E), rational beliefs. This process has a positive impact on their emotional, cognitive, and behavioral responses. The ABCDE model has also been expanded to include the concept of unconscious information processing.
Reference: David D, Szentagotai A, Eva K, Macavei B (2005) “A Synopsis of Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT); Fundamental and Applied Research”, Journal of Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (23) 175–221 https://doi.org/10.1007/s10942-005-0011-0)
When is REBT used?
REBT is used in psychology to help individuals facing various challenges. It can be beneficial for issues such as anxiety, depression, anger management, phobias, and relationship problems. Additionally, REBT can be used to improve self-esteem and develop coping skills.
What to expect in an REBT session
In a REBT session, your psychologist will create a safe and supportive environment where you can openly discuss your concerns. Your psychologist will help you identify any irrational beliefs that may be contributing to your difficulties. They will then guide you through exercises and techniques to challenge and replace these beliefs with more rational and adaptive ones.
Remember, therapy is personalised to your unique needs and experiences. Your psychologist will adapt the approach to ensure it is respectful, empowering, and supportive of your therapeutic journey.