Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
REBT focuses on identifying and changing irrational beliefs; rigid, extreme, or unrealistic thoughts that often lead to emotional distress.
What Is Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)?
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on the connection between our beliefs, emotions, and behaviors.
Developed by Albert Ellis, REBT teaches that it is often our beliefs about situations—not the situations themselves—that influence how we feel and respond.
REBT helps you identify unhelpful or rigid beliefs, examine whether they are accurate or helpful, and develop more flexible, realistic ways of thinking. The goal is not to think positively all the time, but to respond to life's challenges in a balanced and constructive way.
How Does REBT Work?
REBT helps you recognize the relationship between your thoughts, emotions, and actions.
During therapy, you may learn to:
- Identify unhelpful beliefs and thinking patterns
- Examine the evidence for your thoughts
- Challenge unrealistic expectations
- Replace self-defeating beliefs with healthier alternatives
- Develop practical coping strategies
- Respond to challenges with greater flexibility and confidence
Your therapist will tailor these techniques to your individual experiences and goals.
Insurances We Accept
- BlueCross and BlueShield
- GEHA
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Molina Healthcare
- Optum
- Oxford
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Presbyterian
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SUREST
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UMR
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UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
Benefits of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
Many clients find that REBT helps them:
- Reduce anxiety and excessive worry
- Improve emotional regulation
- Build self-confidence
- Strengthen problem-solving skills
- Develop healthier coping strategies
- Respond more calmly to stress
- Increase resilience during difficult situations
- Improve relationships through healthier communication
The practical skills learned in REBT can continue supporting you long after therapy has ended.
Meet our Therapists
Emily Martin, M.A. Candidate
Therapist | Master's Intern Counseling
Rachel Rascon, MS, LMHC
Therapist | In-Person & Online
Natalie D. Vasquez, LMSW
Therapist | Master's Intern Counseling
Britt Verstegen, LMSW, LSAA
Therapist | Online Only
Frequently Asked Questions About REBT
How is REBT different from CBT?
Both REBT and CBT are evidence-based cognitive therapies that explore the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. REBT places particular emphasis on identifying and changing rigid or unhelpful beliefs while encouraging greater flexibility and self-acceptance.
Is REBT evidence-based?
Yes. REBT has been extensively studied and is recognized as an evidence-based therapeutic approach for a variety of mental health concerns.
Will I have exercises between sessions?
Your therapist may recommend practicing coping strategies or reflection exercises between sessions to help reinforce the skills you learn in therapy. These activities are personalized to your needs and goals.
Is REBT right for anxiety?
REBT is commonly used to help individuals experiencing anxiety by teaching practical strategies to examine unhelpful beliefs, reduce excessive worry, and respond to stress in healthier ways. Your therapist will help determine whether REBT is an appropriate approach for your situation.
