Christian Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy

Albert Ellis was the creator of rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT). Although Ellis opposed organized religion and religious beliefs for most of his life, this type of therapy can be adapted for use with many religious groups, including Christians. This paper will discuss biblical support for REBT as well as incongruences of Christian tenants and REBT. Christian REBT (CREBT) will be explored, including the therapeutic techniques that can be used. The efficacy of CREBT will be covered. Since there is a paucity of randomized clinical trials examining CREBT, Christian cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) will also be discussed. This paper will give recommendations for future research on CREBT and other types of Christian-accommodative psychotherapy. Last, a reflection is included about CREBT and Christian faith. This illustrates conflict between these areas, how CREBT and empirical support for it can contribute to Christian counseling, and how it is currently relevant to Christian churches.