Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy: A Newcomer’’s Guide

This straightforward guide introduces the newcomer to the core theoretical principles and therapeutic strategies of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT). Starting with the ABC model of emotion popularized by Albert Ellis from the outset when he developed his approach to CBT, the guide then shows how REBT distinguishes between unhealthy and healthy negative emotions. From there it outlines the four irrational attitudes theorized to be at the core of emotional and behavioural disturbance. Finally, the newcomer to REBT will develop an appreciation for how REBT inoculates clients against future problems and teaches them to maintain and extend their treatment gains.

This Newcomer's Guide will be a useful contribution to counsellors and psychotherapists in training, either in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy or another cognitive-behavioural approach.

Walter J. Matweychuk, Ph.D., is in full-time clinical practice at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, USA and trains doctoral students in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy. He has worked with Drs. Ellis and Beck and is well informed in the similarities and important differences between these two pioneering forms of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. He maintains a private practice and is an adjunct professor in applied psychology at New York University where he teaches Cognitive Behaviour Therapy to graduate students. He is co-author, with Windy Dryden, of Overcoming Your Addictions and Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy: A Newcomer’s Guide. To learn more about Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy, go to: REBTDoctor.com

Windy Dryden, Ph.D, is in part-time clinical and consultative practice and is an international authority on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. He is Emeritus Professor of Psychotherapeutic Studies at Goldsmiths, University of London. He has worked in psychotherapy for more than 40 years and is the author and editor of over 215 books.