Using humor. REBT contends that emotional disturbances often re- sult from taking oneself too seriously and losing one's sense of perspective and humor over the events of life. Humor shows the absurdity of certain ideas that clients steadfastly maintain, and it can be of value in helping clients take themselves much less seriously. Ellis(2001a) himself tends to use a good deal of humor to combat exaggerated thinking that leads clients into trouble. In his workshops and therapy sessions Ellis typically uses humorous songs, and he encourages people to sing to themselves or in groups when they feel depressed or anxious(Ellis, 1999, 2001a, 2001b).