Describe one type of cognitive therapy. Include information about its theoretical background, how it seeks to help people, and its key concepts.

One type of cognitive therapy is Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT).

The theoretical background of REBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, beliefs, and interpretations of events greatly influence our emotions and behaviors. Developed by psychologist Albert Ellis in the 1950s, REBT posits that it is not the events themselves that cause our emotional and behavioral responses, but rather our beliefs and attitudes about those events.

REBT seeks to help people by identifying and challenging irrational beliefs and replacing them with more rational and adaptive beliefs. This is done through a process of cognitive restructuring, where individuals are encouraged to examine their thought patterns and replace negative, self-defeating beliefs with more positive and realistic ones.

Key concepts of REBT include the ABC model, which stands for Activating event, Beliefs, and Consequences. According to this model, it is not the activating event itself that causes emotional and behavioral consequences, but rather the beliefs and interpretations we have about the event. By challenging and changing these beliefs, individuals can experience a reduction in emotional distress and more adaptive behavioral responses.

Overall, REBT aims to help people develop a more rational and healthy mindset, leading to improved emotional well-being and more effective coping strategies.