Learning your ABC’s REBT uses a framework that shifts illogical or unrealistic thinking into more rational outlooks.The ABC method taught to patients gives manageable steps to handle triggers. In this model, “A” stands for activating event, which can include a fact, event or behavior.The event triggers a person’s belief, the “B” component, as a response. In the final “C” component, emotional and behavioral consequences arise from the belief. If a belief results in severe negative emotions, such as anxiety, depression, guilt or hurt, it can be considered an illogical belief.These emotions are harmful and inhibit regular functioning in the individual. By internally immobilizing the person, such severe emotions don’t encourage change or growth. In contrast, healthy negative emotions such as sadness or remorse are essential to proper functioning and allow room to alter behavior. REBT reconstructs the cognitive patterns that lead to irrational beliefs. When working with his clients, Rogers challenges them on notions they state as truth. By testing the validity of a thought, he hopes patients can realize the illogical nature of beliefs that result in negative emotional responses and lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Once clients become aware of the process, they can eventually recognize their own patterns and break them. “I want to focus on those three years.” -James Rogers Giving patients control An important aspect of REBT is empowering patients to create their own change. “It’s not a situation that causes a reaction,” Rogers explains. “The notions you hold about that situation create an emotional and physical response. Changing the way you perceive the situation is what can stop unhealthy reactions.” For his clients, this unhealthy reaction is substance abuse. After years of reliance on a drug, it can be difficult to embrace control over one’s own life. One way to relearn control is by figuring out what’s worked in the past. “If a client comes into my office and says I’ve used for 20 years with only three years clean within that time, I want to focus on those three years,” Roger says. “It tells me that they know how to stay clean. Now we just have to find a way they can extend those three years.”
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