Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy developed by Dr. Albert Ellis in the 1950s. It focuses on identifying and altering irrational beliefs that contribute to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviours. These are replaced with rational and adaptive beliefs to encourage emotional regulation and effective behaviours. The philosophy of REBT is rooted in the idea that our emotions and behaviours are largely influenced by our attitudes toward an event, rather than the event itself. Central to REBT is the ABC Model, a simple yet profound framework that therapists can use to help clients understand and transform their belief patterns, and emotional and behavioural reactions.
Understanding and applying the ABC Model allows therapists to guide clients in identifying and challenging their irrational beliefs, and replace them with rational beliefs. Practicing this results in healthier emotional responses and more adaptive behaviours in clients.
To better understand the ABC Model, let’s take the hypothetical example of Divya, a young professional facing a common workplace challenge.
Divya has been assigned a project at work. She knows the project is critical and will require diligent time and effort on her part. The project is due in a month, however she hasn’t been able to start working on it. Although she dedicates a specific time to it, she doesn’t stick to it and keeps postponing the work. She feels overwhelmed and ends up procrastinating. She is worried she won’t be able to complete the project in time. This is the situational context of the adversity. Here, Divya is worried that she won’t be able to do the project perfectly (A).
Divya feels very anxious and overwhelmed during the scheduled time to work on her project. She then ends up avoiding it for some other work. These emotions are underpinned by her underlying rigid beliefs (B):
These beliefs are irrational and unhealthy but Divya doesn’t realize it. Her rigid and unrealistic demand, along with her low threshold to tolerate discomfort amplifies her anxiety and leads to further procrastination.
C: Consequences
As a result of her beliefs, Divya experiences several emotional and behavioural consequences (C):
Divya’s friend, Ria, notices her distress and suggests she see a therapist who practices REBT. During her first session, Divya learns about the ABC Model. The therapist helps Divya dissect the situation:
The therapist explains that, the actual outcome of the project is out of Divya’s control but, she can influence the process. Specifically, her beliefs about the event are within her power to change. The goal is to help her face her adversity and actually begin and complete the project and stop avoiding it. In order to do this, the therapist will challenge and replace her irrational and unhealthy beliefs with rational ones, leading to healthier emotional and behavioural outcomes and the desired goal.
The next step in REBT is disputing (D) these irrational beliefs. The therapist guides Divya through this process:
Through this process, Divya begins to see that her beliefs are not grounded in reality. While beginning her project can be daunting and uncomfortable for her, it wouldn’t be intolerable or unbearable.
Divya learns to develop new, rational beliefs (E):
With these new beliefs, Divya’s emotional and behavioural responses change. She feels concerned, but not anxious, and is more motivated to work. She starts to view challenges as unpleasant, but not unbearable and faces them. Her productivity improves, and she re-engages with her work enthusiastically.
Conclusion
For therapists considering training in REBT, the ABC Model offers a clear, effective framework for helping clients understand and transform their belief patterns. Therapists can guide clients through the process of identifying adversities, discovering irrational and unhealthy beliefs, and recognizing the resulting harmful consequences. Thereby, empowering them to dispute these irrational beliefs and adopt healthier, more rational perspectives and behaviours. Divya’s story illustrates how this model can be practically applied in therapy, leading to lasting emotional and behavioural changes in clients’ lives.
REBT and the ABC Model provide therapists with powerful tools to facilitate personal growth and resilience in their clients. By incorporating these principles into their practice, therapists can help clients achieve greater emotional well-being and more effective coping strategies for life’s challenges.
A career pathway for curious psychology students
The Albert Ellis Institute, located in New York, is the go-to place for all things related to Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Founded by Dr. Ellis back in the late 50s, this institute keeps his legacy alive by offering top-notch therapy to clients, training new professionals, and spreading the word about REBT. Their REBT training programs are known worldwide for their excellence and are led by experts in the field.
In Vivo- Centre for REBT is the exclusive partner of the AEI in India, authorized to conduct Primary and Advanced AEI Trainings in the country. With Swati Khanolkar and Prof. Windy Dryden at the helm, these training sessions are designed to help therapists specialize in REBT. In Vivo has already hosted 8 successful AEI trainings and continues to support therapists who are passionate about diving deeper into the world of REBT.
About Author –
Hardika Zaveri –
Psychotherapist, Advanced level in REBT, AEI, NY
Hardika has completed her MSc. in Clinical Psychology from Erasmus University Rotterdam. She has been trained in REBT at the Advanced Level from the Albert Ellis Institute, New York. Hardika has previously worked with underprivileged children and cancer patients through various NGOs and also has prior experience working in a psychiatric clinic.
‘In Vivo’ was started in 2007 with the aim of making people aware – in their minds and in action – that they themselves have the ability and the power to make a ‘Proactive Choice’ to take …Read More
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