Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

Which therapy technique is NOT typically associated with Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy?

1. Cognitive restructuring

2. Homework

3. Empty chair technique

4. Distorted thinking

The correct answer is: Empty chair technique

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) focuses on identifying and challenging irrational beliefs to foster emotional and behavioral change. Techniques commonly associated with REBT include cognitive restructuring, where clients are taught to identify and modify distorted thoughts, as well as using homework assignments to practice new thinking patterns outside of therapy sessions. The empty chair technique, while a valuable intervention in Gestalt therapy for facilitating self-awareness and exploring relationships, is not a hallmark technique of REBT. This approach is more about experiencing emotions in the moment and addressing unfinished business, which contrasts with REBT's emphasis on cognitive processes and beliefs. Therefore, this technique is not typically linked to REBT practices, marking it as the correct choice in this context.