Albert Ellis and the Origins of REBT: A Brief History

Exploring the Evolution of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy

Wed Sep 27, 2023

Albert Ellis and the Origins of REBT: A Brief History


In the area of psychology, there are many different types of therapy that each have their own methodologies and philosophies. Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), which Albert Ellis developed, is one of the most well-known and cutting-edge treatments in the world of counselling and psychotherapy. In this post, we'll retrace our steps and look at how REBT came to be.

The Early Years of Albert Ellis

Albert Ellis was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1913. His early years were marked by internal challenges, including shyness and health issues. His interest in human emotions, behaviours, and the effects of illogical beliefs on how we perceive the world was ignited by these difficulties.

The Birth of REBT

In the 1950s, Ellis started researching psychotherapy and developed Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. This creative method put a challenge to conventional psychoanalytic approaches by emphasising the impact of thoughts and beliefs on emotions and behaviour. Ellis believed that irrational beliefs were the root of emotional suffering, and she wanted to enable people to recognise and change these irrational thought patterns.

The ABCs of REBT

The REBT ABC model provides a standard summary:

A: Acting Occasion (something happens)

A: Attitudes (your perspective on the incident) leading to C (emotional and behavioural reactions)

According to REBT, our perceptions of the events rather than the events themselves are what lead to emotional and behavioural consequences. By identifying and disproving erroneous ideas, individuals can change their emotional responses and behavioural patterns.

Continual Evolution

Albert Ellis, a prolific writer, continuously enhanced and expanded on the theory and practise of REBT. His research made a substantial contribution to psychology and laid the foundation for cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Become a Certified REBT Practitioner

You might want to consider honing your counselling skills by enrolling in our globally recognised "Certification in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT)" course now that you are aware of Albert Ellis' ground-breaking work and the revolutionary power of REBT.

Certification in REBT Therapy” - Enroll Now

Enrolling in our course will provide you a complete understanding of REBT concepts, procedures, and applications. Whether you are a mental health professional, a counsellor, or someone curious in the efficacy of REBT, this course is designed to provide you the knowledge and skills to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

As a result, Albert Ellis' revolutionary work in developing REBT had a lasting effect on the disciplines of psychology and counselling. It is still a powerful tool for helping people get past emotional hurdles and live happier lives. Take the first step to becoming a licenced REBT practitioner, then join us on this revolutionary journey.

To better the lives of those you serve, maximise REBT's potential!

Virtued Academy International
A California-based travel writer, lover of food, oceans, and nature.