Cognitive Behavioral TherapyLet's take a brief look at the humble beginnings of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Originally, the first therapeutic approach to CBT was developed by Albert Ellis, Ph.D. This type of therapy has been referred to as Rational Emotional Therapy or RET. Ellis developed his type of therapy primarily because of his growing dislike of the ineffective and nondirect nature of psychoanalysis. What's interesting about RET is that it has philosophical origins. Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus were well-known Stoic philosophers of their time. Epictetus wrote in The Enchiridon: “Men are not troubled by things, but by the vision they have of them. » Another name that may sound familiar and has had a great influence on modern psychotherapy is Alfred Adler. He is well known for his development of individual psychology. He is also known for saying, “I believe that a person's behavior flows from their ideas” (Corey, 2013). Since rational emotional behavioral therapy was, in a sense, the first of the cognitive-behavioral therapies, it is not surprising that it continues to be among the leading cognitive-behavioral approaches today (Corey, 2013). . The main principle of CBT is that people contribute to their own psychological problems through the distorted beliefs they have regarding certain events and situations in their direct environment (Corey, 2013). To some extent, cognitive behavioral therapy relies heavily on the assumption that reorganizing a person's thoughts and statements will result in reorganizing their behaviors. This represents, in a way, the principle of cause and effect. More often than not, people will experience certain thoughts or feelings that will undoubtedly reinforce an incorrect belief. These beliefs... middle of document ...... work together to establish long-term goals that are achievable for the client and work through more direct sessions that may be shorter but All cognitive-behavioral approaches share similar characteristics in that they focus on "(1) a collaborative relationship between client and therapist, (2) the principle that psychological distress is in largely a function of disruptions in cognitive processes, (3) emphasis on changing cognitions to produce desired changes in affect and, (4) a present-centered, time-limited focus, (5) an active, directive stance of the therapist, (6) educational treatment focused on specific, structured target issues” (Corey, 2013) This type of therapy is not for everyone, so it is crucial to do your research. before embarking on a particular therapy as it is a substantial commitment..