Both Albert Ellis and William Glasser have been influential figures in the field of psychology for over four decades. Their contributions to modern psychotherapy, specifically the Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and the Reality therapy, have stood the test of time. These approaches are rooted in ancient philosophy, notably that of Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, and have served as the foundations for various therapeutic approaches such as brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and ecclectisism. The strength of Ellis and Glasser’s methods lies in their simplicity and flexibility. They directly address the problem at hand, avoiding the need for lengthy psychotherapy sessions. As prolific writers and dedicated therapists, they have continuously expanded their perspectives and adapted to keep up with the changing times. Additionally, their humanistic approach is evident through their involvement in non-profit organizations, which strive to alleviate human suffering by offering resources for personal and professional growth.
In 1955, Albert Ellis utilized truth and logic to aid individuals in overcoming challenges. Through the utilization of mankind’s rationality, Ellis enabled us to employ our cognitive capabilities to navigate environmental and social circumstances. By 1975, Ellis merged Rational Emotive Therapy (RET) with Rational Behavior Training (RBT), resulting in the development of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) in collaboration with various esteemed therapists. Ellis elaborates on this in his book, A New Guide to Rational Living (1975).
The system known as Rational Emotive Therapy (RET) was created by A.E. in the early part of 1955. A.E. presented the first paper on RET at the 1956 meeting of the American Psychological Association in Chicago. Since then, RET has undergone numerous minor and some major changes, which were introduced by A.E. and several key collaborators. These collaborators include Dr. Robert A. Harper, Dr. H.Jon Geis, Edward Garcia, Dr. William Knause, Dr. John M. Gullo, Dr. Paul Hauck, Dr. Donald R. Meichenbaum, Dr. Janet L. Wolf, Dr. Arnold A. Lazarus, Dr. Aaron T. Beck, and notably, Dr. Maxie C. Maultsbie Jr.
RET has also been referred to by other names such as Rational Therapy (RT), semantic therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and rational behavior training (RBT). (pg.202)
According to Ellis, REBT is rooted in the core principles of cognitive and behavioral therapy, aiming to assist individuals in questioning their perceived connections between external events and their emotional well-being.
RET utilizes an approach called the A-B-C method to understand human personality and disturbance. When assisting an individual, the therapist typically focuses on the emotional consequence (C) that they recently experienced. This consequence usually stems from an activating experience (A), such as facing rejection from someone. The individual may feel anxious, worthless, or depressed at point C. Mistakenly, they attribute their feelings to point A, believing that being rejected directly caused their emotional state. They may even express this belief overtly by saying something like, “She rejected me and that made me depressed.” However, the therapist can demonstrate that A does not actually cause C. An activating event in the outside world cannot create any emotional consequence within the individual’s mind and gut. If this were true, everyone who experiences rejection would feel equally depressed, which is clearly not the case. Therefore, it becomes evident that C is truly caused by an intervening variable or belief system known as B.
Ellis and RET provide simplicity and the understanding that individuals choose their beliefs and behaviors that cause distress. The confrontational yet playful style of Ellis’s REBT assists individuals in identifying and altering irrational, inaccurate, and unhelpful thoughts. The therapist employs “disputing” to challenge dysfunctional beliefs and guide clients towards greater self-control. In the example mentioned, the dispute centered around whether A caused C. It is essential for the client to be confronted with this alternative perspective to challenge their perception. Ellis often labels irrational beliefs as “nuttiness,” “nonsense,” “silly,” or “idiotic.” Other disputes address more complex or long-standing personal beliefs that burden the client.
The negative thoughts of “I am no good at reading, I will never get ahead!” or “I am worthless, no one will ever love me!” lack a helpful and healthy foundation in an individual’s thinking. These thoughts can be challenged or assessed for logical reasoning. Logic suggests that if something is true, it can be supported by facts. If it cannot be supported by facts, then it is an irrational belief. Ellis often counters with questions like “who said so?” or “where is your proof of that?” or “where is it written?”. The struggling reader should understand that reading ability and personal growth are changeable aspects. Similarly, the lonely and insecure person should realize that love can be achieved through effort and perseverance just like any other goal. However, Ellis assertsively points out the illogical aspects of someone’s thinking. It is the therapist’s duty to teach clients new ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving in order to improve their reading skills or develop a more positive self-concept. Ellis delivers these lessons directly and confrontationally without sugarcoating them.
Ellis serves as a father, coach, and teacher during counseling, utilizing REBT to offer practical and goal-oriented guidance. This approach focuses on transforming thoughts, emotions, and behaviors for personal satisfaction. Examples of goals include improving reading skills or developing a new self-image, which entail dismantling irrational beliefs. Ellis urges clients to display strength and bravery in their quest for self-fulfillment. The emphasis lies on individual responsibility for personal growth and actively addressing hardships through hard work. Through consistent practice and assigned tasks, clients strive to adopt more functional ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving. REBT highlights the importance of recognizing and confronting irrational beliefs that cause emotional distress, redirecting energy towards them. Ellis holds clients accountable and collaborates with them to identify existing problems and explore new behavioral patterns.
Ellis utilizes various emotional and behavioral techniques to assist clients in handling unpleasant emotions. These techniques, such as guided imagery, assertiveness training, behavioral homework, and communication skill training, aim to decrease distress and enhance personal effectiveness. They all emphasize the current moment, enabling the client to explore alternative perspectives regardless of past experiences or self-perceptions.
Guided imagery is a form of hypnosis that assists the client in developing confidence in their ability to achieve success. It incorporates visualizing or imagining a new situation where the client excels in various areas such as reading, experiencing love, or achieving victory. This approach typically takes place in a serene setting utilizing progressive relaxation techniques. By constructing positive and rational mental images based on past experiences, the client transforms their self-perception. It is crucial to maintain faith in the possibility and attainability of change through concerted effort. Moreover, guided imagery not only aids in overcoming fears but also facilitates relaxation at any given moment. This skill can be utilized by the client beyond therapy sessions and even throughout their lifetime if necessary.
Assertiveness training teaches individuals how to confidently and respectfully defend their personal worth and rights, avoiding bullying, manipulation, or abuse. It also assists them in effectively expressing their needs and desires without resorting to bullying or manipulation. Prior to applying assertiveness in real-life scenarios, clients frequently participate in guided imagery sessions.
One aspect of therapy involves practicing practical behaviors outside of therapy. Stimulus control is a technique to prevent clients from engaging in undesired behaviors by being mindful and avoiding opportunities to do them. Ellis (1999) discusses this in his book How to Make Yourself Happy.
“Is stimulus control an inelegant solution to your indulgence problems? Yes, to some extent it is because if you allowed yourself to be in tempting situations and still resisted them, you would be working harder to overcome your low frustration tolerance (LFT) and would be changing your irrational beliefs that create and sustain this LFT. There is no reason you can’t do both: dispute your irrational beliefs and also employ a measure of stimulus control.” (Pp 161-162)
The client may need to complete assignments such as logging instances of assertiveness or profanity, practicing phonics and reading, or repeating self-affirmations. It is interesting that sometimes the task itself may be contradictory. For example, the client is asked to think about their fear of sidewalk cracks while also being asked to think about their fear of sidewalk cracks. Ellis, in his roles as coach, parent, and teacher, emphasizes the importance of clients taking their homework seriously. During therapy sessions, the homework is reviewed and the client may be made to feel ashamed if they are not putting enough effort into it. REBT involves a significant amount of confrontation in session, which can be surprising and refreshing. However, this does not mean that Ellis is generally abrupt or rude in his approach.
Recently, Ellis has written How to cope with a Fatal Illness and Optimal Aging, and it is evident that his writing style is adaptable as he tackles sensitive topics such as aging and dying. What remains constant throughout his work is his desire to prevent anyone from feeling unhappy if it can be avoided. This caring and dedicated therapist has devoted his life to helping people overcome life’s hardships.
The cognitive behavioral techniques of Albert Ellis’ Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) are reflected in William Glasser’s Reality therapy. Glasser, a medical doctor and psychiatrist, together with Dr. G.L. Harrington, developed Reality therapy as a challenge to traditional psychotherapy. They believed that traditional psychotherapy had significant shortcomings and was based on incorrect assumptions. Instead of categorizing individuals as psychotic, demented, or schizophrenic, Glasser argued that they were simply frustrated in meeting their basic needs. Glasser simplified client distress into three primary concerns: Reality, Responsibility, and Right and wrong (rectitude). Reality refers to the unchanging world that clients must live in, including its rules, limitations, and demands. Clients must navigate this reality while also striving to fulfill fundamental psychological needs such as love and self-respect. Responsibility is an inherent aspect of individuals which necessitates them to act in accordance with the rules, limitations, and demands of their reality.
In his writing, Glasser (1965) explains that responsibility is the ability to fulfill one’s own needs while also considering the needs of others. According to him, determining right and wrong depends on the choices people make and the resulting consequences. Reality therapy, similar to REBT, is rooted in the present moment and highlights personal accountability for acting ethically in life. Although a client’s current situation may be influenced by their past actions, Glasser (1965) disregards past irresponsibility as irrelevant to what can be changed presently, labeling it as “psychiatric garbage.” This approach prioritizes comprehending the “what” of behavior rather than understanding the underlying reasons behind a client’s actions. (Page numbers: 13, 37)
The question at hand is whether it is possible to improve a behavior that is one-sided. This presents a simple and direct perspective on therapy. The focus lies on identifying the behavior that is causing difficulties and finding ways to modify it. In his book “Identity Society” (1975), the author emphasizes the principles of Reality therapy, which include: involving the therapist or helper, being aware of the current behavior, evaluating whether the behavior benefits the client or those who care about them, planning for responsible behavior, committing to the plan (usually through a signed contract), not accepting excuses for irresponsible behavior, and refraining from punishing failures (opting instead for praise and agreed-upon consequences) (pp.77-102).
The techniques used by Glasser are straightforward, mirroring the simplicity of his concept. Glasser’s demeanor is paternal and he is both patient and stern when dealing with individuals who are resistant to change. It is possible that his experience working in correctional institutions and schools has influenced his approach. He provides clear guidance for change while also challenging the client to rise to the occasion. Glasser’s commitment to discipline stems from his belief that individuals who refuse to adhere to societal norms cannot find fulfillment. He believes in the potential for success in his clients, which is why he sets high standards for transformation.
Glasser, on page 38, discusses his moralistic approach and argues against pursuing pleasure solely for its own sake. He also advocates for humanity to act reasonably and purposefully. However, some psychologists disagree with Glasser’s idea of right and wrong, allowing their clients to act impulsively. Glasser challenges this perspective by stating that individuals who behave strangely or irresponsibly are not sick and should be held responsible for their actions. Instead, he believes that these individuals are simply trying to fulfill their personal desires and need reminders when their behavior is inappropriate. Glasser highlights the therapist’s role in modeling appropriate behavior and building trust through their actions.
In Reality Therapy (1965), Glasser suggests that the therapist must possess qualities such as responsibility, toughness, interest, humanity, and sensitivity. The therapist should not be distant, superior, or regarded as holy, but rather strong and never compromising. They should withstand the patient’s pleas for sympathy or excessive sedatives, as well as their attempts to justify their actions. Glasser’s approach is rooted in tough love, as he is accepting and humanistic towards even the most challenging clients. However, he refuses to be manipulated or engage in self-justification. He emphasizes the importance of clients accepting the reality that their irresponsible behaviors may harm both themselves and others (page 22).
In Choice Theory (1998), Glasser guides his clients to confront reality similarly to how an alcoholic must acknowledge their lifestyle before starting the recovery process. Unlike Ellis, who actively urges and persuades clients toward change, Glasser relies on the client to take the initiative for self-improvement while he delivers his therapeutic services patiently. Although Glasser is as compassionate as Ellis, his demeanor may seem more unyielding and impassive due to his strong convictions. When assisting clients in making changes, technique is the only distinction. Glasser unveils his humane aspect in his book Choice Theory (1998):
Huge numbers of individuals refuse to accept lives devoid of happiness. They refuse to surrender themselves to a pursuit of pleasure that lacks happiness. Numerous of these discontented individuals earnestly desire to connect with others out of love, but due to the harsh realities they face — poverty, advanced age, lack of education, unattractiveness, unemployment, homelessness, illness, or criminality, among others — they are unable to do so. The poignant question posed by the Beatles — “All the lonely people, where do they all come from?” — may find its answer in a world where individuals are isolated from their spouses, children, teachers, and employers due to this destructive psychology known as external locus of control (Page 195).
Glasser is a therapist who shows great sensitivity and care for his clients. He understands the concept of behavioral training in the discipline field and contrasts it with society’s idea of punishment and reward, also known as stimulus and response. Glasser believes in encouraging his clients to make an effort to change, even if they fail at first. This shows his confidence in their ability to eventually succeed and prevents the situation from becoming one of conditional regard, where he only helps them if they constantly succeed. This approach is similar to that of the best coaches, mentors, and therapists. When it comes to time-outs, Glasser only allows them to last long enough for the person causing trouble to figure out how to negotiate and work within the established rules. This clever approach ensures that power, control, and responsibility remain in the hands of the clients, which Glasser firmly believes is where they should be. In her book, The Reality Therapy Reader (1976), Barbara Hobbie touches on Glasser’s techniques.
Reality therapy emphasizes the importance of warm human involvement and discourages the use of psychiatric categories like dementia praecox, paranoid schizophrenia, and manic depression. It also avoids the examination and analysis of past trauma or history. Instead, it emphasizes individual responsibility for one’s own recovery and rejects the notion of mental illness. The main goal of Reality therapy is to prompt individuals to confront their own reality and modify their behavior in order to meet their needs. Failure to fulfill these needs is often perceived as personal failure. (Page 253)
Both Ellis and Glasser offer straightforward methods for individuals to make changes in therapy. The therapies they present are practical and focused on the present moment. Both approaches require clients to assess their own behaviors and work towards alternative ones. The techniques used in REBT and Reality Therapy have stood the test of time and continue to be foundational in many cognitive, behavioral, and eclectic therapies. These therapies are accessible to everyone, with books, tapes, videos, and online resources available. They have also been updated to incorporate multicultural sensitivity.
Both Ellis and Glasser’s original works were written in a masculine second-person style, which contained numerous examples of sexist, racist, and ageist language. However, it is important to note that these instances were innocent at the time and reflected the norms of that era. Nevertheless, what remains consistent in both Ellis and Glasser’s early works is their unwavering dedication to excellence in the field of psychotherapy. Both individuals were pioneers who diverged from traditional psychotherapy practices of their time. They have a deep understanding of human suffering and have defined the source of frustration for many individuals: the innate need for love, self-worth, and fulfillment through success. They emphasize that one’s thoughts and behaviors are instrumental in attaining fulfillment, and when unfulfilled, these thoughts and behaviors become problematic.
While acknowledging that many people are not naturally inclined towards scientific thinking, Ellis and Glasser propose a rational and straightforward approach for navigating the world. They recognize that most individuals tend to think illogically, irrationally, and impulsively based on emotions. Unlike other therapies, they provide a way for clients to take responsibility for their actions and the consequences that accompany them, empowering them to make personal choices and attain freedom. These therapies contrast with approaches that shift blame away from the client and disregard the impact of external influences. By offering a realistic perspective and strength to navigate the world without relying on drugs or denying one’s existence, both therapies are highly effective in group settings. They address the root cause of weakened nervous and immune systems by changing behaviors, which drugs fail to achieve. Despite some fundamental differences, these therapists have comparably inconsequential variations when examined superficially.
Albert Ellis is characterized by a fun-spirited attitude and a lack of seriousness towards life, which is an integral part of his personal philosophy. According to Ellis, there are no rigid rules or absolute principles that should dictate how one lives. He even modified his writing style after realizing that his initial writings contained numerous “shoulds”, “musts”, and other absolute terms, in order to maintain consistency and avoid hypocrisy. By not adhering to any absolutist beliefs, he finds joy in life and has the freedom to work as hard or as leisurely as he pleases.
Unburdened by external pressures, Ellis displays a remarkable level of productivity, sometimes working seven days a week. He travels extensively around the world, conducting seminars, and successfully fulfills his role as the chairman of the Albert Ellis Institute of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy.
William Glasser has a kind and composed professional demeanor. He is warm, sensitive, and caring towards his clients, but he always maintains a dignified composure. He believes that it goes against his nature to ridicule a client, as he is convinced that the potential harm it could cause does not justify taking such a gamble. Rather than pushing clients too hard, Glasser prefers to assess their readiness and gently guide them towards growth. He compares excessive pushing to forcibly keeping young lovers apart, only to push them into eloping. Glasser would rather use his appeal as a steadfast, competent, and caring helper to coax clients towards positive change, rather than behaving in a way that would scare or insult them. Unlike Ellis, Glasser does not believe in shaming clients, viewing it as a form of punishment. Instead, he rejects the concept of punishment altogether, considering it an external control method that is rarely effective. Glasser achieved notable success at institutions like the V.A. hospital and the Ventura school in California throughout his career by not relying on punishment. Additionally, Glasser is highly prolific in his works and currently serves as the chairman of the William Glasser Institute.
References
- Bassin, A., Bratter, T. E., & Rachin R. L. (1976) The reality therapy reader New York, NY, Harper and Row
- Ellis, A. (1999) How to make yourself happy: Atascadero, CA Impact Publishers
- Ellis, A. (1973) Humanistic psychotherapy the rational emotive approach New York, NY Julian Press,
- Ellis, A. & Abrams M. (1994) How to cope with a fatal illness New York, NY Barricade Books
- Ellis, A. & Harper R. (1975) A new guide to rational living, No. Hollywood, CA Wilshire Book Company
- Ellis, A. & Velten E. (1998) Optimal aging Peru, IL Carus Publishers,
- Glasser, W. (1998) Choice theory, New York, NY Harper Collins
- Glasser, W. (1984) Control therapy New York, NY Harper and Row
- Glasser, W. (1971) The identity society, New York, NY Harper and Row
- Glasser, W. (1965) Reality therapy New York, NY Harper and Row
