Schema therapy
Early experiences form schemas, deep-rooted beliefs that steer your life. Schema therapy helps you break those patterns.
What is Schema therapy?
Schema therapy, developed by Jeffrey Young, integrates cognitive therapy, attachment theory and gestalt approaches. It was designed for people with long-standing psychological problems, particularly personality disorders and chronic depression.
Schemas are deep, fundamental beliefs about yourself formed in early life. 'I am unworthy of love.' 'I must be perfect to be accepted.' These beliefs operate largely outside awareness but powerfully shape your choices.
How does it work?
Schema modes
Schema therapy works with different emotional states ('modes') that take over in response to triggers: the 'vulnerable child', 'detached protector', 'punitive parent'.
Limited reparenting
The therapist provides what was missing in early life, warmth, validation, gentle challenge. This is deeply healing for many clients.
What can you expect?
Assessment: you identify your active schemas using questionnaires, imagery and life history.
You understand where each schema comes from, the early experiences that formed it.
Cognitive work challenges the schemas: testing them against evidence.
Imagery work and chair work reach the emotional core of the schemas.
Behavioural change: you practise making choices that aren't driven by the schemas.
Suitable for
Find a provider
Ready to get started?
Book an intake session with a provider who specialises in this approach. Together you'll look at what fits best for your situation.
Source: Young, Klosko & Weishaar (2003) · Giesen-Bloo et al. (2006)