The experience of rational emotive behaviour therapy
The literature review produced for this thesis systematically analysed qualitative studies of cognitive therapy using a methodology checklist and a meta-synthesis technique. Ten papers which used qualitative analysis to look at clients’ experiences of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) met the selection criteria. Seven themes emerged. Three were linked to a therapeutic relationships theme; the trusted listener, power and authority and others like me. Four were linked to the impact of cognitive therapy theme; empowering information, analysing the problem, thinking differently and doing things differently. It was concluded that future research should focus on the components of cognitive therapy and that differences in technique between CBT and Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) should be explored via a qualitative study of clients’ experiences of REBT. A qualitative approach was taken to look at clients’ experiences of REBT. Seven participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide and the resulting transcripts were analysed using interpretive phenomenological analysis. Three themes emerged: one which looked at what it was like to have mental health problems; a second, which looked at clients’ expectations and experiences of the more technical aspects of therapy, and a third which examined the therapeutic relationship. All of the participants appeared to value therapy. However, the extent to which they knew about and used the theory and philosophy of REBT varied greatly. These results suggest that further research needs to be carried out which looks at how people benefit from therapy as clients views may differ from those of therapists. A critical appraisal of the research process was written using the REBT model to reflect the experience of producing the thesis.
Rational emotive, REBT, Cognitive behavior therapy, CBT, IPA, Qualitative, Meta-synthesis
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