The founder of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy in 1955, Albert Ellis (1913 – 2007) is considered, along with Freud and Carl Rogers, to be one of the most influential psychologists of all time. One of the first cognitive-behavioral therapists, Ellis’ active, directive, rational, and brief approach to therapy stands in stark contrast to the long-term approach of Freud and the humanistic based, non-directive approach of Rogers. The most well known aspect of his approach is his belief that it is not the event (A) that causes emotional distress and behavior dysfunction (C), but the belief (B) about the event (ABCs). He further expounded on this by noting that the roots of our dysfunction are one or more irrational beliefs and that these beliefs can be challenged and changed in a relatively short amount of time. Founder of the Albert Ellis Institute in New York City, Ellis was instrumental in the way in which many therapists work and view emotional problems and mental illness.

Dr. Gerald Corey, well-known author in the field of counseling and psychology, tells about his experiences and the generous side of Dr. Albert Ellis.

Dr. Doris Ray Coy, past-president of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and American School Counselors Association tells her story entitled: “To Bite or Cut, That is the Question.”

Dr. Ed Neukrug tells a story about an encounter with Dr. Ellis, entitled: “Don’t give me that empathy “!?#@?!” (expletive deleted)