What is Schema Therapy?
Schema Therapy, developed by Dr. Jeffrey Young, is an integrative therapy that combines cognitive-behavioral techniques, psychodynamic concepts, and attachment theory. It's designed to address long-standing patterns and early maladaptive schemas - deeply held beliefs about yourself, others, and the world that develop in childhood.
These schemas are self-defeating patterns that persist throughout life and can cause significant emotional distress and relationship problems.
Core Concepts
Early Maladaptive Schemas
Common schemas include:
Abandonment/Instability
Mistrust/Abuse
Emotional Deprivation
Defectiveness/Shame
Social Isolation
Dependence/Incompetence
Vulnerability to Harm
Enmeshment
Failure
Entitlement
Insufficient Self-Control
Subjugation
Self-Sacrifice
Approval-Seeking
Unrelenting Standards
Schema Modes
Schema modes are the emotional states and coping styles that people shift into when schemas are triggered:
- •Child modes (vulnerable, angry, impulsive)
- •Dysfunctional coping modes (avoidant, overcompensating, surrendering)
- •Dysfunctional parent modes (punitive, demanding)
- •Healthy adult mode (the goal - balanced, nurturing)
Who is Schema Therapy Best For?
Schema Therapy is Effective For:
What to Expect
- •Long-term therapy (typically 1-2 years)
- •Exploration of childhood experiences and how they shaped schemas
- •Identification of current patterns and triggers
- •Limited reparenting - therapist provides what was missing in childhood
- •Imagery work and chair work to access and heal schemas
- •Focus on both cognitive and emotional change
- •Development of healthy adult mode
Getting Started with Schema Therapy
Schema Therapy requires specialized training. Look for therapists trained in Schema Therapy who have experience with personality disorders and long-standing patterns.