Albert Ellis was an American psychologist and psychotherapist who is widely viewed as a pioneer in the field of modern psychology. He’s best known for the impact he made through his development of a revolutionary new type of psychotherapy known as rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT). Many of the concepts and frameworks Ellis devised are still in use by therapists today to help individuals learn to navigate challenging situations, question irrational beliefs, better control their emotions, and embrace change to promote improved mental health and a better quality of life.
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Learn about Albert Ellis and his innovative approach to therapy
Albert Ellis was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on September 27, 1913. He was interested in psychology from a young age and began to study it on his own at 16. Then, after earning a bachelors degree in business at the City College of New York, he obtained a master's degree in clinical psychology from Columbia University.
During his studies, Albert Ellis became particularly drawn to the idea of developing a more practical and effective approach to therapy, as he recognized the limitations of traditional psychoanalytic techniques used at the time. After finishing his master's degree, Albert Ellis began his career as a psychologist, working in both own practice and mental health clinics over the years. He continued to study and refine his ideas over time, eventually introducing rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT)—his unique approach to therapy—in the 1950s.
Ellis’ contributions
Albert Ellis is best-known for introducing the framework for rational emotive behavior therapy, which many view as a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). As cognitive behavioral therapy in general is the most widely used method and “the current gold standard” of psychotherapy today, Albert Ellis is considered to be one of the most influential minds in the field to date.
He devised the method of rational emotive behavioral therapy after identifying clients and circumstances in which other types of therapy did not seem to be effective. He felt that the predominant methods of psychotherapy at the time were too passive and overly focused on past trauma, motivating him to devise a more action- and future-oriented method. Rational emotive behavior therapy focuses on developing new ways of thinking in the present moment, and oftentimes, this form of therapy allows people to embrace healthier perspectives during sessions.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.
Albert Ellis is also known for having authored over 60 books and hundreds of articles on various topics related to psychology. Some of his bestselling books include, a guide to rational living, sex without guilt in the 21st century, overcoming procrastination, and how to live with a “neurotic” at home and at work. As well as publishing books, Ellis released guides for therapists to explore rational emotive behavior therapy in more depth. Also, he founded the Institute for Rational Living in 1959 as well, which is now known as the Albert Ellis Institute. The Institute for Rational Living continues to offer trainings for psychotherapists today.
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How does rational emotive behavioral therapy work?
Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) is based on the concept that a person’s thoughts about a situation or circumstance are what cause the most distress. That’s why practitioners use it in an attempt to help clients learn how to notice and challenge flawed or unhelpful thought patterns that are leading to unfavorable emotions or behaviors. The goal of this type of therapy is to empower individuals to reframe problematic core beliefs into more realistic ones over time. Two key elements of this type of therapy include:
Focusing more on the present moment, which allows an individual to notice flawed thoughts as they occur in real time so they can challenge them on the spot. In addition, aiming to live in the present moment can help prevent unproductive rumination on the past or unhelpful projection of past events onto the future.
A bias toward action, as Ellis believed that the power of rational emotive behavior therapy lies in encouraging individuals to take ownership of their beliefs, emotions, and behaviors and to shift them with their own power to create a healthier emotional life.
Ellis’ approach to rational emotive behavior therapy is reflected in one of his more well-known quotes: “The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny”.
Rational emotive behavioral therapy today
Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) is a therapy modality that is still in use today. A 2017 review of studies on the topic concludes that it remains “a sound psychological intervention”. The review reports that it can be an effective treatment for mental health conditions and behaviors. These include but are not limited to depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia, psychotic symptoms, parental distress, and disruptive behavior.
One key technique often used in rational emotive behavior therapy is known as the ABC method. It aims to help an individual learn to slow down and recognize the often unconscious or automatic ways in which they tend to respond to unpleasant or difficult events in their lives so they can learn to shift them. The underlying idea is that we all control our own interpretations of events, which are typically where distress comes from. In this method, ’ABC’ stands for:
Activating event, which is an unpleasant or difficult event, circumstance, or situation that occurs in a person’s life
Belief, which refers to the thoughts the individual has in response to the activating event
Consequence, which is the emotional reaction the person has in response to their beliefs about the activating event
Developing an awareness of the ABCs of a given situation is typically the first step of REBT. Next, the therapist will aim to help the individual learn how to challenge any beliefs that may be causing distressing consequences. Over time, this new perspective may become easier to participate in the moment, leading to decreased distress overall.
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Learn about Albert Ellis and his innovative approach to therapy
Various forms of cognitive behavioral therapy, including rational emotive behavior therapy, have helped many people gain greater control over their emotions and helped them improve their mental health overall. If you’re interested in connecting with a therapist, there are various ways to do so. For those who would prefer to meet with a mental health professional in person, searching for a provider in the local area can be a helpful next step. For those who would feel more comfortable meeting with a provider virtually, online therapy may be worth considering.
With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed therapist who you can meet with via phone, video call, and/or in-app messaging from the comfort of home or anywhere you have an internet connection. Many people find this therapeutic format to be more cost-effective than traditional in-person sessions as well. Research suggests that both online and in-person therapy can offer similar benefits in many cases, so you can typically choose the format that works best for you.
Takeaway
Albert Ellis is recognized as a pioneer in the field of modern psychotherapy because of his development of rational emotive behavioral therapy (REBT)—a methodology that’s still in use today. You can learn more about Albert Ellis and his work by exploring bestselling books such as ‘A Guide to Rational Living.’ Rational emotive therapy sessions encourage people to take responsibility for their thoughts, feelings, and pre-existing beliefs, which gives them the power to shift their perspective. Whether you’re looking to begin rational emotive therapy or another form of therapy, you can connect with a professional therapist in person or online, either through therapy platforms or The Institute for Rational Living (The Albert Ellis Institute).
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is Albert Ellis's theory?
Albert Ellis was a psychologist most famous for developing rational emotive behavior therapy. This therapy modality rests on the theory that underlying thoughts and beliefs are what cause emotional problems for individuals.
Did Albert Ellis have kids?
No, Albert Ellis didn't have children. Albert Ellis did not marry until 2004 and he died in 2007, leaving behind a widow and no children.
Is Albert Ellis still alive?
Albert Ellis is no longer alive. Albert Ellis was born in 1913 and died in 2007. His groundbreaking research and theories survive him, as his therapy modality known as REBT is still widely practiced today.
Why is Albert Ellis important?
Albert Ellis is an important figure in the field of psychology because he pioneered rational emotive behavioral therapy, which was a groundbreaking approach. He created it because he believed that each individual is responsible for their own thoughts and reactions to external events, and that people can learn to recognize and shift these thoughts and reactions through REBT. His work has helped countless people over the years and through to today improve their mental health and quality of life.
What are the stages of a therapeutic relationship?
There are four major stages of a therapeutic relationship:
Pre-interaction phase: This is the period before the therapist and the client come into contact with one another. At this stage, both parties may have different feelings and expectations for the future relationship.
Introduction phase: This is the orientation phase when the client and the provider first meet. The aim of this period is for the provider to find out why the client is seeking help and what their goals are for therapy.
Working phase: The bulk of therapy occurs in this phase, when the provider and the client work together to address issues in an effort to improve the client’s mental health overall.
Termination phase: This stage marks the end of the therapeutic relationship.
How do you establish a therapeutic relationship with a patient?
There are various practices a mental health provider can use to establish a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship with a client. Some of these include making them feel welcome, cultivating a safe, nonjudgmental space for expressing honestly, respecting their space, and practicing active listening.
How do I bond with my therapist?
Bonding with your therapist will likely naturally happen over time as you get to know each other and build trust. It’s part of their job to ensure you feel comfortable being open and honest with them about your feelings. If you don’t feel safe relating your thoughts and emotions with your therapist after several sessions, they may not be the right provider for you.
Is it okay to cry in therapy?
It’s not unusual for clients to cry during a therapy session because sensitive topics are often addressed with the aim of healing and growth. It’s the job of your therapist to make sure they create a safe space where you feel comfortable expressing your true emotions in a variety of forms.
Is crying in therapy a breakthrough?
In his book Reason and Emotion in Psychotherapy, Albert Ellis writes that providing an outlet for expressing emotion—such as crying—can signify progress. However, each individual is different. It’s possible to experience a breakthrough in therapy with or without crying.
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
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