Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy

This video describes the assumptions, techniques, role of the counselor, and desired outcomes for rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT).

[@joe1579]

I like REBT, it seems really straightforward, & the ABC model makes a lot of sense, & is a useful way to conceptualize how thoughts, context/situation, & outcomes can interact.

[@aliciazahn1718]

REBT's easily one of my favorite therapies because, like Dr. Grande mentions, it's so positive. There is not just a belief in the client, but also the belief that the client can believe in his or herself, which sets it apart from person-centered which is also accepting and positive. This video was mostly a refresher as I've taken the Theories class and focused some papers around REBT, so I did not get a lot of new information. Nevertheless, I can never hear enough about this therapy!

[@briannagoitiandia9833]

I often have a hard time understanding REBT and differentiating between REBT and CBT, however this video cleared up a lot of my questions. I have a much better understanding of REBT after watching this video and have realized it is a style of therapy that I think I would most like to utilize as a counselor

[@carolkirby5869]

REBT is by far my favorite. The logical progression makes this something that appeals to me. Thanks Dr. Grande, this was excellent.

[@lynpeca1502]

I like the way REBT is broken down in this video. One is able to understand the concepts of this form of therapy, how to use it, and the desired outcomes. A point that stands out for me is the high self-awareness of the counselor, who recognizes that they themselves are not perfect and must make adjustments in treatment.

[@vidaadansi5633]

REBT's ABC model clearly lays out the various processes forming a cycle of behavioral issues. Thus, the antecedent, behavior and consequence. Through this cycle, we are able to see how beliefs are developed from experience and such beliefs leading to undesired outcomes. I think REBT has some great techniques in treatment. The therapist's ability to employ techniques like disputing overgeneralization and irrational beliefs are wonderful. One of the things I have always believed in regards to clients is that, they are more stronger than what we physically perceive them to be and REBT shares the same view. This gives the therapist a responsibility to promote clients independence in therapy. I like the idea of helping client develop unconditional acceptance because that is key to a healing process. I think assignment is a strong aspect and makes this theory more effective and easy to use. I will definitely use REBT.

[@MichaelSmith-jd5ki]

REBT has always been a very straight-forward theory to me and this video has just reinforced that.

[@kristinaasimova601]

Thank you for your videos!!! I'm taking theories right now and I find your videos extremely helpful! And I love the way you present the material: it's good to have a well-structured presentation and your explanation at the same time. Thank you again!

[@erinbachor8623]

All of your therapy videos are so helpful!! They’re getting me through my semester! Thanks!

[@DrGrande]

You're welcome - thanks for watching -

[@kikixiong6156]

I really like how clear this video explains REBT. The techniques are very straightforward and on point. I would love to see videos demonstrating all of them. Thank you very much for these videos!

[@monicaperry13]

This video clearly explained REBT and I liked how each technique was discussed in detail. I think many clients could benefit from this therapy, and especially like that it is positive.

[@sammiejo6344]

I appreciate how Dr. Grande takes his time to educate about the different theories. Its one thing to read about it, but to hear him explain it in detail and provide examples makes it easier to understand. There are so many things that I like about REBT, especially the strong role of the therapists, being active and direct, and using various techniques to guide clients towards the desired outcomes. Dr. G also talked about the ever changing times, and how techniques such as shame attacking might have been useful during Ellis's time, but not useful in our current social media world.

[@melissaclendaniel9811]

As I stated in the previous video, I enjoy REBT as much as I do CBT. This video was very informative on the specific techniques associated with REBT and the ABC model. I also liked the examples that were shown on how a therapist would re frame must and should statements and the bit about the public shame tactics in light of new technology.

[@michellerobinson968]

This video had a lot of useful information. I like the substitute words and phrases; "must and should" and "I would like to and prefer". I encourage clients to learn positive ways to cope and helping them see how their thoughts and thinking, beliefs, are connected to feelings and behaviors can be beneficial and even crucial to improvement.

[@amandagerrick5407]

REBT is really appealing to me because it has good techniques that can help to change the irrational thoughts a person might have, while incorporating positive acceptance of themselves and others in their lives.

[@dhanaazm7897]

Thank you soo much for the wonderful video. You have a very calming voice and way of explaining.

[@ninastreet4630]

I like how the techniques were explained in more detail. I believe that REBT would help a lot of clients that have irrational thoughts. I really like the positive model and letting the client know that their past doesn't define the future.

[@jenaycalloway6085]

This gave me a clear view of REBT, thanks.

[@bethanyelstrom3566]

I appreciate you discussing the shame attacking exercise and how that could cause more harm today with social media then previously conducted. I like that you stressed that as a counselor we should always be evaluating ourselves and our techniques. An REBT counselor really teaches the client to be self-sufficient.

[@virginiamurrey9139]

Very helpful! I have used these videos as a point of reference for research!

[@reginaames3038]

I enjoyed the refresher of REBT the video was straightforward and helpful. I was drawn to REBT in Theories class I liked the focus on irrational beliefs and the cycle of symptom which the therapist teaches the client how to problem solve and evaluate their own thoughts.

[@rmcruvan667]

Thank you very much Doctor, it’s excellent, great help for learners.

[@brittanyrio3619]

I really like the ABC model. Cycles are so hard to break, but everyone gets caught in one at some point. Love the idea of unconditional self acceptance. If you can't accept yourself unconditionally, how can anyone else? I also like the idea of homework therapy, I think it could be a really useful tool to continue therapy even outside of the counseling setting. This is definitely a more active therapy, but I like that. Would definitely integrate this into my future counseling. Again, a great video, really broke it down and made it easy for me to follow.

[@8shelbyg]

I like what you said about cycles. As far as homework goes I think it's great in theory but a lot of times the people who need it most don't do it and those who need it less are the ones who complete it. And if clients don't complete it, it might undermine the feeling that their making progress. But depending on the individual it might be really helpful.

[@FrancesShear]

So true Dr. Grande. Librarians, social workers, recreational therapists and occupational therapists in their programming use some of the same principles out of REBT being discussed here. Like everything else --- Anything can be used for the wrong purpose and Dr. Grande already knows better than anyone commenting here how to use REBT properly to help clients heal. Could be surprising for any one of us later no matter how much time is spent getting ourselves educated about such kind of things when finding out how some people in contrast often fail to realize that when they are crossing boundaries at whim with no respect for the others they are doing so to that using anything in an unethical way just in order to get ahead is bound to backfire on them later just when they believe they have finally made it. Like when finding out after being pressured into early retirement with a payout that they are no longer welcome in the office they once enjoyed working in no matter what before all of their contracts ended unlike the professor or officer whom the used to be down the hall from.

[@anahgalloway2740]

My favorite aspect of REBT is the positivity and optimism that focuses on a client's strength and resilience even in terrible circumstances. However, I was surprised to learn about "shame attacking" exercises used in the past and would think this type of exercise would be more harmful than beneficial.

[@pearlbutler9377]

Anah Galloway I agree Anah. I like the belief that the client has the strength to come adversity. I think the concept of shaming was more of a way to help the clients change those irrational thoughts. I think the period when this was done might have been more appropriate.

[@lizconnor1820]

This video was helpful in breaking down rational emotive behavior therapy and explaining the techniques. I like the positive aspect of this theory and that the client has a hand in helping themselves.

[@alexdeloach6472]

One of the things that I really like about this model is how you can walk the client along this process and model. You are explaining to them what is happening and that builds trust between the client and counselor. This video helped me to understand REBT more as well.

[@alexisklair3164]

I like the appoint about how alot of times irrational thinking associated with "shoulds, musts, and demands" arises from healthy/positive goals and values and then the client begins to think in an absolute or more rigid manner. Using this explanation, its easy to see how it can be a slippery slope from something that began as rational and positive and then became engrained overtime. Another point i liked in this video is talking about healthy and non healthy resistance to change and that it is natural for people to resist change. This is a different outlook than in different models view of resistance to change. I also like the practicality of this model and the ways it can help people through practice and homework and reasonable steps toward change.

[@ammu9810]

I share your thoughts too. The thoughts may start out with such great intentions, but have potential to shift into these controlling rules that become hazardous at times.

[@karasullivan7919]

I like the premise of REBT that the future for the client is not determined by their past. This is important to reiterate to clients throughout their therapy.

[@tashastarling870]

Thank you very much Doctor. Helpful and interesting. Have you considered redoing some of these videos again? I love this format - I want these videos to always be available. I watch every single one of your new updates too and always look forward to them. I think your knowledge, training and ability to communicate these lessons would be very popular right now though. You've also gotten much better at making videos entertaining and faster in a way KZbin viewers are accustomed to. While all your old content is outstanding, you have such a large volume I wonder if a lot of it is overlooked. I think the content from these videos could easily be slipped into new updates again. I don't see anything wrong with repeating lessons once in a while. Especially when the format and words change a little. It will help us learn more, and get more viewers exposed to information they need and crave (I am not sure though what best works in this business. I feel during this quarantine though everyone has the time to learn and are especially interested in mental health and interpersonal relationships) Finding your content has helped me make real changes in my life. When I can't access therapy, you still provide insight and help teach me how to think through things on my own. So thank you very much for your help and kindness. Time for some sleep. ))

[@kimberlykelly386]

I really like REBT and its focus on strength and the ability to change. This video reminded me that in the ABC model, the consequence can be thinking, feeling, or a behavior which can lead to or create another adversity = cycle. I also like this therapeutic stance on acceptance. Finally, this helped to remind me that the counselor takes the stance of the active and directive expert.

[@barbarahoffman408]

I like REBT it's practical and many clients can relate to it. It encourages a positive outlook on life that many people don't have but need desperately. I like the substituting words technique because our words have power and if you can change what you say you can change your life.

[@angeliquecastro2209]

This video outlines how assumptions are created (which are the symptoms) and how to deal with them. The techniques employed by counselors who operate under this theory are outlined along with what counselors should do and the desired result for the clients. I think that REBT is useful because it gets the client thinking about what benefit or purpose that an irrational belief holds for them. it seems to narrow down things. The acknowledgement that clients have strength and power is very important and I was glad to hear it. That is why this works for me. I can imagine how much work it is for both client and counselor to help each other create and come up with a new philosophy.

[@johnellis3244]

Very good session - Excellent presenter many thanks for positng

[@DrGrande]

I'm glad you found the video useful. Thanks for watching.

[@johnharrisjr2808]

Very informative video on REBT. Good explanation on the techniques and the role of the counselor. I found the public shaming exercises to be interesting. I wonder if using a typewriter in school would be considered a public shaming exercise today

[@haleemadurani5860]

Thanks ..for the best lecture sir

[@robertrobertsjr.2245]

I saw REBT to be useful. The methods can be very similar to how counseling was done in the military. The counselor was very active and direct to the desired outcomes. Now what we did in the military was not called REBT and no one was trained either. I thought the video was very good, and a take away for me was the three circles and how consequences could lead back to adversity. That was very interesting. As always, I learn a great deal from the videos.

[@dawnb.9315]

It is interesting to hear about your experiences in the military and how they relate to this field. As someone with very little exposure to the military it is helpful to read your perspective.

[@ariadnaaguero-roman5525]

I liked that the role of the counselor and the client were both explained. I have learned through literature that some minorities prefer a more direct approach. Like Person Center, in REBT the counselor must show unconditional acceptance and be very optimistic.

[@kyarapanula1002]

While watching, I thought about the applicability of REBT outside of typical sessions, as in pulling from the REBT model in a crisis situation with a suicidal teenager. The description and examples in this video confirm that REBT's methods make sense in both an acute and a chronic presentation--especially since crisis comes from distorted and conditional self-acceptance.

[@niktucker5812]

I really like REBT because it is a positive therapy that maintains that people possess strength and have the ability to to overcome adversity. The desired outcome of helping the client to be able to unconditionally accept themselves regardless of performance in itself plays a big part in the ability to change irrational beliefs. I also like how REBT maintains that all irrational thoughts may not be alleviated, to me that says that this type of therapy does not set out to perfect, but to help clients to accept themselves unconditionally which can lead to a more functional life.

[@andrewlightfoot1560]

Ellis cracks me up! I'm definitely going to make videos doing his shame-attacking techniques one day! REBT makes a lot of sense to me, although I still find myself gravitating to Beck's approach a little more.

[@ethanlinton1159]

beck is good too I am studying this. be careful using shame-attacking techniques. I think start first from the easy and escalate little by little. you should do too; as AE advised imaginary Technics too. My theory is about albert''s diabetes since shame-attacking techniques involves also physical changes;heart pumping, increase and decrease sugar level it and etc etc.

[@scottjohnson7872]

1974-1990 received training for schizophrenia and bipolar . Took all kinds of psychiatric medication . And was hospitalized nemous times for acting out suicide. Last suicide attempt in 1990 . Free of symptoms though dealing with adversity and shutting down negative believe . And eliminating dysfunction behaviour’s . Absence from self physical harm . Leads to 0 negative consequences. Learning new skills Nuro plasticity may take 5 to 3 years . It took me years to get here . However it paid off in spades .

[@jessicamcnemar182]

I really like REBT's approach to counseling. The central idea of unconditional self acceptance is important, and I like how REBT encourages the client to practice the skills taught in sessions in their lives outside of the sessions. I really like this emphasis on the client mastering the skills of REBT and continuing to practice them themselves, its a very empowering approach. I also like the ABC model and the idea that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interdependent. I see how it is important to incorporate all three into making changes happen.

[@brittanyrio3619]

Jess, I too love the idea of unconditional self acceptance. I too like the idea of practicing these tools in real life, outside of the session, it is empowering.

[@vidaadansi5633]

I agree Jess. I also like the idea of empowering clients with skills/tools because altering them will help them to always overcome their triggers and anxieties. Good point.

[@barbarahoffman408]

I enjoyed the video. I like the REBT techniques. In particular the technique of helping clients to develop a new philosophy and problem solving skills that they can apply to future conflicts. Ellis makes a great point that clients must achieve self-acceptance in addition to Roger's core belief of counselor acceptance of the client.

[@angelagrimes3994]

The concept of self acceptance is incredibly important. No matter how much the counselor unconditional accepts you, which is vitally important, in the end it doesn't matter too much if you can not accept yourself. .

[@heather7927]

Barbara, I liked how in your post you brought up the self acceptance and the acceptance of the client and how clients may need to develop a new skill to resolve future conflicts. I agree with you here. REBT is useful and helpful in assisting clients in becoming self aware, self accepted, and a client is able to do so once they know their counselor accepts them where they are and how they are. I think this aspect is important especially if an individual doesn't have anyone in their life who accepts them which may contribute to things such as their distorted thinking.

[@angiemorales8481]

I feel it is a very important point to remember that it is natural for clients to resist change. This helps counselors dropped that too often heard line..."So and so just doesn't what to change". I also found the ABC model to be every interesting and how it can cause a cycle. As far as the techniques I always wonder how useful is homework in therapy and I am glad Dr. Grande was able to explain what homework consists of. Lastly the unconditional acceptance aspect of not depending on a counselor is very powerful.

[@jessicamcnemar182]

I was wondering about homework too, and what would be helpful homework. I do think having specific things to work on or notice in between sessions can increase effectiveness and help a client to master some of these skills for themselves. I like the idea that the client should eventually become self-sufficient in doing these things and not just rely on the counselor.

[@sammiejo6344]

Angie, I agree that that is a great point - that it is natural for people to resist change. I can certainly apply that to my personal life, sometimes, we get so accustom to certain things, become too comfortable, that the idea of change can be terrifying. Dr. Grande did an excellent job explaining the importance of homework, and how it will help clients in the long run, once therapy is over, etc.

[@ethanlinton1159]

As AE said; homework can do for fun even exist humorous songs and the client may see the whole way to therapy as a venture (preference and wishes ) instead a tedious could homework(musturbation); yes we work hard but it is too the point of view each one (terrible) ;example is terrible the homework and ever will be so.

[@runner000777]

REBT can be a great therapy for those who are willing to truly see their way of thinking. A narrow mindset is typically the type of client who may be receiving REBT. One has the power to change their thought process, behaviors and feelings.

[@ammu9810]

REBT seems to be a truly beneficial way to help clients challenge their maladaptive thinking and reframe their perspective. I like the idea of homework too. Not only does it help the client feel like they have the power/tools necessary for positive change, but it helps build the strength in the helping relationship between the client and the therapist. Fantastic video.

[@robertrobertsjr.2245]

Am, I agree with you on getting clients to dispute their irrational beliefs with logic. The idea of homework is the key, but what happens if they don't do it. I thought about that, and my thinking was teach more problem solving if the homework is not getting done. Just a thought.

[@angeliquecastro2209]

Am, I agree that the homework component is key here. I like how the therapy does not end with the session, but the client can have meaningful documentation of the work that they accomplish.

[@alexisklair3164]

I also agree about the homework and i feel like in the session and for homework, all the steps are reasonable moving toward small steps toward change rather than asking the client to do big steps which seem insurmountable. reframing is so simple yet difficult sometimes and takes a lot of practice, so i think that the homework is really important.

[@dawnb.9315]

I liked the info that this approach differentiates between a "normal" response that may on the surface first appear like an irrational belief but is actually an appropriate or expected reaction to a situation. I thought about while watching the last video. If someone experiences a trauma, they may have strong initial reactions and thoughts that may fit into the cognitive distortion or irrational belief descriptions but lessen or normalize over time (instead of becoming pervasive cognitions or feelings). This seems like important information that I want to make sure and remember.

[@angiemorales8481]

I also agree and think in certain situations....especially trauma...there is going to be expected cognitive distortions and irrational beliefs. I would feel the goal for a therapist in the situation would be to make sure these distortions and irrational beliefs do not stick.

[@MyDonh]

I found the issue of self acceptance in REBT as opposed to acceptance in Person Centered to be interesting. although both are very similar i think in the end, self acceptance leads to a more effective treatment for a client.

[@8shelbyg]

It's funny how something that seems so minor like changing words in your thoughts like must and should to would like to or prefer to can really change the way we see the world and how will we function in it. Sometimes people fail to realize how strong their thoughts are in shaping their perspective and experience and so although our job is important, sometimes it is a little bit simpler than people think. As counselors, people sometimes think that we have some kind of crazy deep information that they will never understand but in reshaping the way people think techniques can be very simplistic but crucial to change.

[@andrewlightfoot1560]

That is definitely true! You can even see that effect in research and responses to polls. People may change their approval of a topic based on how it is worded.

[@humairairfan3810]

Thanks!

[@kelliamaya2724]

Self-acceptance is a key concept for change...

[@vidaadansi5633]

You couldn't say it better, Kelly. Good point.

[@bcdigiart141]

REBT is not easy .... I made a move from NY to Nevada.. I had Cancer, and I had no job... I have been trying to assess my anger, anxiety and depression, and while I am trying to address these issues, I have deepfelt thoughts of victimization, and I am having a really hard time letting go. Even with guided meditation, I am still filled w a large degree of stress

[@cocopie1190]

Dr grande can you teach us and explain on rebt techniques theoretical and practical

[@hellenmarie1149]

This video is so helpful to me but how can a therapist use REBT in post traumatic stress disorder

[@kimeeshareedwalker2602]

Some critics believe that REBT doesn't focus on the emotions fully, as to most therapies, but if you think about it our emotions are triggered automatically by our thoughts so both are being addressed, but emphasis on feelings in session is not the main focus.

[@ethanlinton1159]

could be maybe because there are more neutral feeling than extreme feeling like example; maniac; oh I won it it is a big it is enormous and besides it could be not hold by me = emotion maniac ; extreme and insane mix or fear and happiness. and other extreme sadness-- depression.

[@marthabrent9126]

Hello Dr. Grande! What do you mean by directive therapy?

[@jessicawilliams6286]

I enjoyed the review of techniques and the explanation of self-shaming techniques. I agree that such techniques should be avoided today, and may not be beneficial to the client, because of today's technology.

[@ethanlinton1159]

I think same about self shaming techniques and behavior because involve punishment and it is contradictory with self acceptance. instead outside rewards or punishment a compassionate understanding about our problem could be better than self punishment or rewarding

[@poonamnayar2489]

👍

[@jkm3maka]

voice is too low.

[@shadi489]

what about a delusional belief like i think i dont exit and i am just a 3 way opinion interaction between my step moms nephew and her sister this people r for ever in my head i feel they live in my head i know ther is no one in my head but this delusion has swallowed my whole mind i live in this lens how do i free myself ?

[@fabbeyonddadancer]

Wouldn’t this be a form of emotional invalidation