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Can REBT and ACT resolve their differences and be integrated?

APA Citation

Ellis, A. (2005). Can Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) resolve their differences and be integrated? Journal of Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, 23(2), 153-168.

Publication Topic
ACT: Conceptual
Publication Type
Article
Language
English
Keyword(s)
acceptance and commitment therapy; cognitive behavior therapy; psychotherapy; rational-emotive behavior therapy
Abstract

Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is a pioneering form of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is part of the new wave of CBTs. In this article, I discuss the papers of Ciarrochi, Robb, and Godsell, and of Ciarrochi and Robb, who propose that REBT and ACT can be quite suitably integrated, and the paper of Steven Hayes, the originator of ACT and of Relational Frame Theory, who is skeptical about the feasibility of Ciarrochi, Robb, and Godsell’s proposals. My own view is that ACT and REBT significantly overlap in their theory and practice and that they can be successfully integrated if both therapies make some changes.