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Schema Therapy
What is Schema Therapy?
Schema therapy helps us to understand how the difficulties we experience in the present, that stop us from getting our needs met, developed in the past when we were children and teenagers. Whereas more traditional therapies, like CBT, focus on treating symptoms, schema therapy focuses on healing the origins of the problems we suffer from in the here and now.
As therapists we know that change can be really hard and requires a big commitment. At times, we too have struggled to function in healthy ways when we have experienced hardships and distress in our own lives. Schema therapy provides opportunities for us as therapists to use both our personal and professional wisdom to connect with you through this journey and support the growth of your healthy self.
Four main concepts
Core needs
Early maladaptive schemas
Early maladaptive schemas
People have a series of basic emotional needs in childhood, including security, affection, connection, autonomy, play, self-expression, nurturing, and identity. Everyone has the same core needs.
Early maladaptive schemas
Early maladaptive schemas
Early maladaptive schemas
Schemas are patterns or themes about yourself and your relationships with others. We develop schemas during childhood when our core needs are unmet. Schemas are considered maladaptive because they are at least somewhat dysfunctional.
Coping styles
Healthy adult mode
Healthy adult mode
In response to your schemas, you will develop certain behaviors known as coping styles. These styles can be maladaptive as well. Often, they end up reinforcing the original schema.
Healthy adult mode
Healthy adult mode
Healthy adult mode
Using the therapeutic relationship itself, including limited reparenting to grow a stronger, healthier sense of self.
Who this helps
Schema Therapy may be a good fit if you:
- Keep repeating the same painful patterns, in relationships or at work
- Feel like your reactions are "too much" for the situation
- Have tried other therapy but the issue keeps resurfacing
- Sense a pattern connects back to your childhood or upbringing
- Want to understand the "why", not only the "what to do"
Want to learn more?
To learn more, visit The Schema Therapy Institute's Website and/or contact us today.
MIDDLEPATH ALLIED HEALTH
67 Payneham Rd, College Park SA 5069, Australia
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DBT & Schema Therapy, in person or online.
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