A Primer on Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy

by Windy Dryden, Michael Neenan, Raymond DiGiuseppe

The authors have recently updated this concise, systematic guide on Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). They discuss rational versus irrational thinking, the ABC framework, the three basic musts that interfere with rational thinking and behavior, two basic biological tendencies, two fundamental human disturbances, and the theory of change in REBT. A detailed case example that includes verbatim dialogue between therapist and client illustrates the 18-step REBT treatment sequence. An appendix by Albert Ellis examines the special features of REBT.

Genres: Psychology

114 pages, Paperback

First published December 15, 2002

About the author

Windy Dryden is one of the leading practitioners and trainers in the UK in the Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) tradition of psychotherapy. He is best known for his work in Rational-Emotive Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (RECBT), a leading CBT approach. He has been working in the field of counselling and psychotherapy since 1975 and was one of the first people in Britain to be trained in CBT and has trained with Drs. Albert Ellis, Aaron T. Beck, and Arnold Lazarus.

He has published over 200 books and has trained therapists all over the world, in as diverse places as the UK, the USA, South Africa, Turkey, and Israel.

He is Emeritus Professor of Psychotherapeutic Studies at Goldsmiths, University of London.

Reviews

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn't the most *interesting* read but if you're interested in practicing REBT I highly recommend this book. It provided a foundation so that I could really learn to apply the skills when I took the certification workshop.

[Vijayshree Menon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very comprehensive introduction to REBT

[Mary Nelson · Rating 2 out of 5]

While this book gave a brief overview of REBT, I wasn't too thrilled with the examples and overly technical language used with clients. Perhaps the book was written well and I'm just not a fan of REBT. In any case, it might be helpful for those needing a quick intro. Easy read. Finished it in two sittings.

[Megan HRH · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short, concise explanation of RET. It's almost a bit too fast and would do well to be reread. The ideas are not revolutionary but helpful to hear and interesting to hear operationalized. Totally recommended.

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Also read the REBT Therapist Pocket Companion and First Steps in REBT which are not listed here. Guess what training I'm taking next week?