Background
Psychoanalytically trained Albert Ellis began Rational Therapy in 1955, renamed it RET and in 1993 REBT. He often quoted Epictetus: people are disturbed not by things but by their views of things. It is one of the earliest cognitive-behavioural therapies and a major counselling approach.
ABCDE model
- A: failing an exam
- B: "I absolutely should have passed; failing makes me worthless"
- C: depression and avoidance
- D: "Where is the evidence that I must? Does one failure define me?"
- E: "Disappointing but bearable; I can prepare again"
The ABC model itself is explained in more detail in Ellis's ABC theory.
Irrational beliefs
Core demands (musts) produce awfulising, low frustration tolerance and global rating of self or others. Therapy turns demands into preferences.
Techniques
Logical, empirical and pragmatic disputing, coping statements, rational-emotive imagery, shame-attacking exercises and homework. The therapist is active and directive.
Versus Beck
Beck's cognitive therapy collaboratively tests automatic thoughts; Ellis disputes demands more directly and stresses unconditional self-acceptance.
References
- Ellis, A. (1962). Reason and Emotion in Psychotherapy. Lyle Stuart.
- Ellis, A., & Dryden, W. (1997). The Practice of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (2nd ed.). Springer.
- David, D., Szentagotai, A., Eva, K., & Macavei, B. (2005). A synopsis of rational-emotive behavior therapy: Fundamental and applied research. Journal of Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, 23(3), 175-221.
- Corey, G. (2017). Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy (10th ed.). Cengage.