Reading recommended books and workbooks on REBT for independent study of the rational philosophy between sessions. Audio therapy — listening to Ellis's lectures and session recordings. The technique speeds up the internalization of rational beliefs through repetition. Ellis wrote dozens of self-help books specifically for clients.
Step-by-step guide
- Assess the client's educational level and readiness to read
- Choose a concrete book or workbook matching the client's main problem
- Assign a specific amount per week: a chapter, a section, an exercise
- If the client prefers audio — offer Ellis's lecture recordings or REBT podcasts
- In the next session discuss what was read / heard: what resonated? What provoked resistance?
- Link the material to the concrete IBs of the client that are being worked on
- Encourage note-taking while reading — write out key ideas and objections
When to use
- As a standard addition to any REBT therapy
- With high client motivation and readiness for independent work
- With a limited number of sessions — bibliotherapy expands the therapeutic space
Key phrases
There is a book by Ellis that looks at exactly what we are talking about. Ready to read a chapter a week?
You are not working alone — you will have Ellis's support between our meetings.
Read it and bring me one point you disagree with — that will be the most useful.
Follow-up questions
What from the reading have you already tried to apply? What worked?
Is there an idea you encountered that irritates you? Let us discuss it.
Write out three key thoughts that you want to remember.
Alternative phrasings
A chapter a week plus one applied exercise — reading without practice is collecting, not changing.
Mark the pages where you argued with the author. That is where your IB lives.
Audio on the commute, book before bed, worksheet in between — layer the channels.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Intellectual reading without practice is "REBT chatter" (Ellis's term): understood but not changed
- ⚠️ Not all clients read — offer audio or video as an alternative
- ⚠️ Make sure the client applies the ideas, not just accumulates knowledge
Source: Ellis, A. & Harper, R.A. (1975). A New Guide to Rational Living
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.