I CAN Describe the goal of CBT Explain REBT and the ABC’s Determine which disorders would be best treated with CBT Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A Synthesis A form of psychotherapy that combines the techniques of cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy. Seeks to help the client develop a sense of self-efficacy (The belief that one is capable of performing in a certain manner to attain certain goals. ) The MOST popular type of CBT is known as REBT: Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy

Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007 REBT Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy Based on the idea that irrational thoughts and behaviors are the cause of mental disorders. Proposed by Albert Ellis

The ABC’s of REBT A = Activating Event/Adversity What do you think happened? What would a camera see? B = Beliefs about Activating Event What did you tell yourself? C = Consequences How did you act? How did you feel? While it may seem odd at the beginning, you want to start somewhat backwards. Start with the (C).

Ellis’ REBT provides 12 irrational thoughts and their rational counterparts Irrational ThoughtsRational Thoughts Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007 We should be thoroughly competent, intelligent, and achieving in all possible respects It is a dire necessity for adults to be loved by significant others for almost everything they do, everyday. We must have certain and perfect control over things If something is or may be dangerous or fearsome we should be terribly upset and endlessly obsess about it No one can be perfect. It is not possible for everyone to love and approve of us No matter how evil an act, there are reasons for it. You can't change the past but you can learn from it

Active Listener Someone who gives the speaker feedback (nodding, affirmation, paraphrasing, asking question, showing interest…) This is REQUIRED of a CBT Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007 Not listening at all !

Different Therapeutic techniques are effective for different disorders Behavior Therapies: specific phobias, bedwetting, autism, alcoholism Cognitive –Behavioral Therapies: chronic pain, anorexia, bulimia, agoraphobia Insight Therapies: relationship/marriage problems Depression is best treated with a variety of therapies Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007

Mental “First Aid” If someone asks you for help, keep in mind that serious problems (especially those involving suicide or threats) require immediate professional treatment Otherwise, your best tools may be… Listening Acceptance Exploring alternatives

CAN I? Describe the goal of CBT Explain REBT and the ABC’s Determine which disorders would be best treated with CBT Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2007