Description

In this episode of Psychology Insights, Claire introduces the foundations of Schema Therapy, an integrative approach developed by Dr. Jeffrey Young in the 1980s. She explains how schemas, deeply rooted patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, develop early in life and shape the way we view ourselves and our relationships. Claire also explores schema modes, coping styles, and the therapeutic techniques used to break maladaptive cycles and strengthen the Healthy Adult mode. Whether you’re curious about therapy methods, struggling with repeating life patterns, or interested in how psychology integrates across approaches, this episode offers a clear and practical overview of Schema Therapy.

Key Vocabulary

• Schema Therapy: An integrative psychotherapy that combines cognitive-behavioral, attachment, psychodynamic, and experiential approaches.

• Early Maladaptive Schemas: Deeply ingrained negative patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior that develop in childhood when core emotional needs are unmet.

• Modes: Moment-to-moment emotional states and coping responses, such as the Vulnerable Child, Detached Protector, or Healthy Adult.

• Coping Styles: Strategies used to manage painful schemas, surrender, avoidance, and overcompensation, that often maintain dysfunctional patterns.

• Limited Reparenting: A therapeutic technique where the therapist provides corrective emotional experiences within safe and appropriate boundaries.

Resources

• Young, J. E., Klosko, J. S., & Weishaar, M. E. (2003). Schema therapy: A practitioner's guide. Guilford Press.
• International Society of Schema Therapy (ISST): https://schematherapysociety.org
• AN INTRODUCTORY GUIDE TO SCHEMA-FOCUSED THERAPY
• Dutch Institute for Schema Therapy : https://www.schematherapy.nl/

Mental Health Crisis Resources

If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, please seek help immediately.

• Find a Helpline (global directory): https://findahelpline.com

• In the US: Dial or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

• In the UK & Ireland: Samaritans are available at 116 123.

• In the Netherlands: Call 113 or visit https://113.nl.