THE REBT SUPER-ACTIVITY GUIDE

Psychologist Garcy offers a guide for living a healthier and happier life using REBT (rational emotive behavior therapy) methods.

This neatly organized, 52-chapter activity book incorporates the REBT techniques developed in the 1950s by psychologist Albert Ellis. Garcy explains that part of the REBT philosophy is the idea that unhappiness is often caused by one’s emotional perception of events and situations. Garcy details a simple, thoughtful strategy for analyzing and categorizing beliefs as rational or irrational; for example, she urges readers to change statements so that they start with “I would like to have” instead of “I need.” She emphasizes the importance of becoming aware of what causes healthy or unhealthy emotions: “Awareness precedes thoughtfulness, and thoughtfulness precedes decision.” Part of successfully combating depression and encouraging positive action, she explains, is separating “things you do from who you are.” An overwhelming belief that one can always do better, she writes, can cause “an enduring sense of depression.” The book’s format as a series of exercises permits a personal and practical approach, allowing readers to relate the REBT principles to their own lives. It include strategies for defeating procrastination, creating positive reinforcement, maintaining a sense of humor and increasing tolerance in order to achieve personal goals. The author also discusses how to cope with feeling out of control—a useful skill to have in increasingly complicated times. In addition to the many practical—and even humorous—exercises throughout the book, there are sections which prompt journal entries and require more thoughtful reflection. Garcy’s enthusiasm is infectious, and her logical, pointed questions may prompt helpful, healing introspection. An appendix includes a list of additional suggested readings.

An instructive, practical self-help book, full of “aha!” moments.