Posted: September 7th, 2024

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy

Walden University
NRNP-6640

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
Introduction
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) have similarities and differences that impact the treatment. It is the responsibility of a therapist to select the best approach based on their skill set (David et al., 2018). The purpose of the essay is to examine CBT and REBT, differences, similarities and most preferable approach.
Similarities between CBT and REBT
CBT and REBT require clients to identify the root cause of their problems. Clients should identify the cause of conditions such as depression and then work towards recovery. The two models are instructions-based since the therapists advise their clients to refrain from specific behaviors or thinking patterns (Carpenter et al., 2018). Another similarity is that the approaches are time-limited. The two approaches are directive since they suggest strategies that clients can utilize to achieve positive outcomes (Turner, 2016). CBT and REBT are structured, making it easy for the clients to follow through the process.
Differences between CBT and REBT
CBT is mind-oriented since it focuses on encouraging the clients to change their thought patterns. REBT deals with identifying the root cause of a problem that lead to specific problems. It also deals with the critical evaluation of situations before suggesting a solution to a client (Turner, 2016). REBT encourages clients to embrace assertiveness to solve their specific problems while CBT deals with bolstering the mental capacity and reinforcing positive attitudes (Turner, 2016). REBT teaches clients to accept their current situations and develop new behaviors, whereas CBT deals with changing the thinking patterns that alter the behavior of individuals.
REBT embraces the concept of unconditional self-acceptance compared to self-rating that can undermine the self-esteem of individuals. It encourages the people around to embrace a person the way they are (Wood et al., 2018). CBT focuses on lifting a person’s self-esteem and a change of mindset. REBT focuses on seeing the brighter side of every situation. It encourages patients always to remain positive and avoid self-destructive thoughts (Wood et al., 2018). A positive perception of situations is necessary, unlike CBT, which focuses on behavior, thoughts, and feelings.
The differences will impact my practice since I will only select a theory that is relevant to a patient and my skill set. For example, I am more comfortable using CBT compared to REBT. I aspire to read more about REBT to ensure I can use it comfortably for any patient.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
I would choose cognitive behavior therapy. I have acquired skills on how to apply the theory in different circumstances. I believe the approach is practical in addressing major mental problems that occur due to unhealthy thinking patterns. The model focuses on boosting self-esteem, improve communication skills, and coping strategies (David et al., 2018). It is useful in anger management and substance and drug abuse. CBT prevents relapse by transforming the mindset of an individual (Carpenter et al., 2018). It helps manage problems such as depression and anxiety and make them less likely to affect life negatively. I would also prefer the theory since it is a short-term approach that will favor clients.
Conclusion
CBT and REBT are useful approaches to addressing mental problems such as depression and anxiety. They utilize various concepts that depict their similarities and differences. It is the responsibility of therapists to choose an approach based on their skill set. Therapists should keep in mind the similarities and differences that impact the treatment. The essay examines the comparison and describes the preferable model.

References
Carpenter, J. K., Andrews, L. A., Witcraft, S. M., Powers, M. B., Smits, J. A., & Hofmann, S. G. (2018). Cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and related disorders: A meta‐analysis of randomized placebo‐controlled trials. Depression and Anxiety, 35(6), 502-514.
David, D., Cristea, I., & Hofmann, S. G. (2018). Why cognitive behavioral therapy is the current gold standard of psychotherapy. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 9, 4.
Turner, M. J. (2016). Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), irrational and rational beliefs, and the mental health of athletes. Frontiers in Psychology, 7, 1423.
Wood, A. G., Barker, J. B., Turner, M. J., & Sheffield, D. (2018). Examining the effects of rational emotive behavior therapy on performance outcomes in elite paralympic athletes. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 28(1), 329-339.

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