Although relatively new to the psychological scene, Rational Emotional Behavior Therapy (REBT) has the potential to become a useful addition to the perspectives of Christian counselors. Albert Ellis, who introduced the theory in 1956 (Tan, 2011, p. 251), used his ideas about self-perception to overcome social anxiety before becoming a well-known theorist (Murdock, 2013, p. 274). His fierce, carefree attitude defines his lectures, writings, and therapeutic techniques to the point where it becomes a weakness and can negatively affect clients and therapists if not balanced with warmth and empathy (Tan, 2011, p. 272). Nevertheless, the theory shares many beneficial similarities with more popular cognitive behavioral therapy, such as “their focus on the crucial role of maladaptive and dysfunctional thinking in the development of psychopathology” (Tan, 2011, p. 256). Murdock (2013) explains that Ellis developed his theory primarily because of his childhood experiences with anxiety. The techniques used in psychoanalysis did not suit him, even if they constituted his original therapeutic roots. REBT is therefore only slightly deterministic in that Ellis believes that people – neutral entities by nature – can create their own reality, either by thriving in it or succumbing to it. The way a person is able to define their environment and relationships is through their rational or irrational beliefs (RB and IB). For example, if a troubling circumstance arises, she may choose to believe that it is annoying or frustrating but not catastrophic (RB); or she may think it is absolutely horrible (IB). It is during childhood that people learn about IBs from their parents or significant others, and IBs often infiltrate every aspect of a person...... middle of paper ..... . avian therapy within the philosophy of traditional Christianity. Journal of Cognitive and Behavioral Psychotherapies, 6(1), 45-56. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com.library.dbu.edu:2048/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=20355130&site=ehost-liveJohnson, W. and Ridley, CR (1992). Brief Christian and non-Christian rational-emotive therapy. Counseling & Values, 36(3), 220. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com.library.dbu.edu:2048/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=9705070523&site=ehost-liveMurdock, NL (2013 ). Theories of counseling and psychotherapy (3rd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. Pies, R. (2011). The Jewish foundations of rational-emotive behavior therapy. Mental Health, Religion and Culture, 14(5), 459-472. doi:10.1080/13674671003802754 Tan, S. (2011). Counseling and psychotherapy: a Christian perspective. Grand Rapids, Michigan: BakerAcademic.