In Rational Emotive Therapy, what is the recommended approach to counter irrational thoughts?

• A. Dream analysis.
• B. Action and practice to combat irrational thoughts and beliefs.
• C. Unconditional positive regard.
• D. Exposure therapy.

Answer: (B)

Rational Emotive Therapy centers on how beliefs about events, not the events themselves, drive emotional distress. The approach emphasizes actively countering irrational thoughts by practicing new, more rational beliefs through action. Therapists help you identify the irrational belief, dispute it with logical and evidence-based arguments, and then implement the change through real-world practice and homework. This active, practice-oriented process turns cognitive insight into lasting behavioral change, which is why an option that highlights action and practice best fits RET. Other ideas, like dream analysis, reflect psychodynamic approaches; unconditional positive regard comes from client-centered therapy; and exposure therapy focuses on reducing avoidance rather than challenging irrational beliefs.