Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy Primer

Windy Dryden is Emeritus Professor of Psychotherapeutic Studies at Goldsmiths University, London, and is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society. He has authored or edited more than 250 books, including the second edition of Reason to Change: A rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) workbook (Routledge, 2021) and the third edition of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy: Distinctive features (Routledge, 2021). In addition, he edits 21 book series in the area of counselling, psychotherapy and coaching. His major interests are in rational emotive behavior therapy and CBT; single session interventions; the interface between counselling and coaching; pluralism in counselling and psychotherapy; writing short, accessible self-help books for the general public and demonstrating therapy live in front of an audience.

'As a world-renowned expert in rational emotive behaviour therapy, Professor Windy Dryden continues to be an influential contributor to the field with his latest book. Whether the reader is new to REBT or a seasoned practitioner, the clear and relevant explanations and strategies provided for each phase of therapy will be beneficial. Especially helpful are the recommendations to overcome common obstacles encountered in the therapeutic process, which are often overlooked in counselling and therapy books. Reading a book on the course of therapy is often the first step in learning the nuts and bolts. However, Windy Dryden’s meticulous demonstration of how the nuts and bolts play out in therapy affords the reader the opportunity to consolidate that learning. The transcript of the single counselling session is an invaluable addition to this significant resource for practitioners pursuing greater understanding and enhancement of their skills. Once again, Windy Dryden does not disappoint with this gem. I highly recommend this book to anyone wishing to gain in-depth knowledge of the principles and practice of REBT.' – Kristene A. Doyle, Director, Albert Ellis Institute, New York. 'Here is another gem showcasing Professor Dryden’s wit, erudition and skills as a teacher and a clinician. In this compelling masterpiece, Professor Dryden draws on years of experience to bring to the readers a meticulous presentation of both theory and practice of REBT. Using examples based on his work with clients, he comprehensively covers various nuances of classic REBT and adds to it his unique contributions that enhance its efficiency and effectiveness as a therapeutic model. The chapter dedicated to a transcript of his single session of REBT with a client, with his commentary, especially makes it a mandatory reading for all students and practitioners of REBT.' – Swati Khanolkar, clinical psychologist, associate fellow and supervisor, Albert Ellis Institute, India.

• Series introduction, Introduction, 1: The origins of REBT and its place in the therapeutic realm, 2: Two basic ideas, 3: REBT’s view of emotional disturbance and health: the situational ABC framework, 4: The working alliance in REBT: A framework for practice, 5: Beginning REBT, 6: Developing and maintaining a problem focus, 7: Developing and maintaining a goal focus, 8: Developing and maintaining a solution focus I: Promoting intellectual insight, 9: Developing and maintaining a solution focus II: Promoting emotional insight, 10: Promoting maintenance and generalisation, 11: Dealing with obstacles to change, 12: Client study: A transcript of single-session REBT, 13: Research into REBT, Appendix 1: Resources for learning, Appendix 2: Eight unhealthy and healthy emotions, Appendix 3: The Dryden REBT form, Appendix 4: The wise rabbi story, Glossary, References, Index