What is Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy?

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a therapy developed by Albert Ellis (AE) and is based on the belief that cognition (thinking), emotive (emotions/feelings) and behavior (acts) are homogenous and holistic (Ellis & MacLaren, 2011). In addition, within the process wherewith we “think-feel-act,” we find ourselves as being functional or dysfunctional, rational (self-helping) or irrational (self-defeating) in our beliefs of an event (Ellis & MacLaren, 2011).

How Does it Work?

When putting this theory into practice it relies on the “ABC” model of REBT (A = activating event, B = belief, and C = consequence). In the triangle of the “ABC” model, Albert Ellis posits that A = C because of B. The activating event is explained simply as an event that one personally experiences, the consequence is the physical or emotional effect of the activating event, and the belief is the way of thinking or inference of the event (Ellis & MacLaren, 2011).

In like manner, when working with clients at Mobile Therapy Centers, the client will present a self-defeating behavior, consider the function of the behavior, and how beliefs they share about the activating event influence their reaction (whether it be a physical or emotional reaction). The irrational belief is then challenged for its self-defeating traits and the client learns how to develop a more rational way of thinking about events.

Is REBT Effective for Children?

With these points in mind, the practice of REBT works by helping the client to feel better and achieve their goals by helping to change their irrational beliefs (self-defeating) into rational beliefs (self-helping) and promote desirable emotional and behavioral outcomes (Ellis & MacLaren, 2011). REBT and other notable cognitive therapies have been proven to be effective in treating a variety of mental health disorders (Grey, 2010). But, for its use in children it is recommended that therapists take a bottom-up (body-brain) approach as a child’s neocortex has not fully developed and the most efficient instruction is done so through kinesthetic or sensory learning (Grey, 2010).

Mobile Therapy Centers’ qualified service providers excel at providing quality and convenient services to reduce stress and anxiety, and increase proactive management of life’s challenges. We aim to support families, the workplace and the community as a whole by decreasing barriers to treatment and encouraging support with minimal daily disruption.

To learn more about Counseling/Behavior Therapy Services, please don’t hesitate to contact Mobile Therapy Centers to speak with one of our therapists. We provide FREE screenings/consultations, so why not take advantage of the opportunity to have your child seen by a professional and then answer any questions you may have?

Mobile Therapy Centers is a Multidisciplinary Clinic specializing in ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Feeding Therapy, Pediatric Physical Therapy and Counseling. We see children at our clinics, at your home or at your child’s school/daycare making it convenient for you and your family.

MTC provides free screenings/consultations. We also provide Telehealth services. MTC accepts most commercial insurance. Contact us below to learn more.

Resources:
Ellis, A., & MacLaren, C. (2011). Rational emotive behavior therapy (2nd ed., pp. 22-25). Atascadero: Impact Publishers.
Grey, E. (2010). Use Your Brain: A Neurologically Driven Application of REBT With Children. Journal Of Creativity In Mental Health, 5(1), 54-64. https://doi.org/10.1080/15401381003627160