Which therapeutic approach focuses on changing a client's irrational beliefs?

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is designed specifically to address and modify irrational beliefs that individuals hold about themselves and the world. The core of this therapeutic approach revolves around the idea that many emotional problems stem from irrational thinking patterns. By challenging and reframing these beliefs, clients can experience a shift in their emotional responses and behaviors.

In REBT, therapists help clients identify specific irrational beliefs, often characterized by absolutist thinking (e.g., "I must be perfect," or "Everyone must like me"). The goal is to replace these harmful beliefs with more rational and constructive thoughts, which can lead to healthier emotional outcomes and improved mental well-being. This approach is grounded in cognitive-behavioral principles and emphasizes the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Other therapeutic approaches mentioned, such as aversive conditioning, humanistic therapy, and attachment-based therapy, do not specifically focus on modifying irrational beliefs. Aversive conditioning is more related to behavioral change through negative reinforcement. Humanistic therapy centers on self-actualization and personal growth, often emphasizing a client's subjective experience rather than challenging beliefs directly. Attachment-based therapy focuses on the dynamics of attachment styles and their influence on relationships, without necessarily targeting irrational beliefs.