The following paper takes a close look at two therapeutic approaches: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and rational emotive behavioral therapy (REBT). Below, each of the therapeutical approaches are explored in greater depth. Importantly, CBT and REBT are compared in terms of their similarities and differences. Furthermore, I take a look at the behavioral therapy approach that I would use with my clients. Evidence-based literature is used to support the reasoning in this paper.

To begin with, Turner (2016) explains that REBT “proposes a process for the reduction of irrational beliefs and the promotion of rational beliefs.” REBT is described as a humanistic cognitive behavioral approach. According to Ellis (1999), both approaches can be successfully applied to treat elderly people. The author explains how CBT techniques can be used to help older individuals resolve their personal issues (which may have lasted for quite a while). When it comes to CBT, this approach is based on the premise that mental disorders are rooted in a series of cognitive factors. Various maladaptive conditions lead to a persistent state of distress, as well as behavioral problems. Based on Beck’s model, these maladaptive cognitions consists of cognitive models or frameworks of the surrounding world, the self, and the future (Hofmann et al., 2012).

As one’s maladaptive conditions are challenged and changed, emotional distress and other psychological issues are soon resolved (Hofmann et al., 2012). CBT relies on a series of interventions that consists of “a variety of cognitive, behavioral, and emotion-focused techniques” (Hofmann et al., 2012). As a matter of fact, David et al. (2018) argue that CBT is the “gold standard” in present-day therapy, meaning that it is the best available option in the field of psychotherapy. The authors stress that CBT is largely evidence-based, which is why it is often considered as the reference treatment.

When it comes to similarities, both approaches focus on human emotions and behavior. Both therapeutic approaches support the idea that individuals’ beliefs, attitudes, and thoughts shape their cognitive, behavioral, and emotional patterns. As for the differences, REBT tends to address the philosophical issues that underly emotional disturbances. It tends to look at the underlying reasons behind one’s cognitions. For instance, if one partakes in “mind-reading” when anticipating another person’s reaction (e.g., asking someone out on a date who is uninterested), CBT would address the mind-reading issue in itself. REBT, on the other hand, would set out to tackle the fear of rejection and the additional anxieties that it brings. Hence, CBT seems slightly more limited in its approaches.

Essentially, REBT highlights the importance of secondary disturbance; e.g., when one is disturbed about a certain condition, such as being anxious, depressed, or having panic attacks (Edelstein, 2017). As for CBT, it pays little attention to this factor. Also, REBT focuses on unconditional self-acceptance, while CBT therapists often rely on various techniques to bolster their clients’ self-esteem (Edelstein, 2017). Furthermore, REBT emphasizes the importance of certain negative emotions that play a crucial role in one’s psychological reality (e.g., grieving the loss of a loved one). Interestingly, according to REBT all expressions of anger have a dictatorial and condemning nature. However, CBT deems some anger as acceptable and healthy. In REBT, various alternatives are sought (such as learning to be assertive, proactive, etc.) to substitute aggression (Edelstein, 2017).

With all this said, both techniques have their own advantages, yet slightly differ. I would choose REBT for treating my clients, since I find that the abovementioned comparisons portray REBT as the more sophisticated technique. Thus, I have a feeling that REBT will be more effective for treating the client on a deeper emotive level.