Schema Therapy

Schemas are thought patterns that develop about oneself, one's environment, and the world as a result of early negative experiences. The formation of schemas involves unmet emotional, psychological, and physical needs in early life experiences. The basic needs that should be met in childhood are: Safety, realistic boundaries, self-control and autonomy, the ability to express emotions and needs, and the fulfillment of continuous attachment needs. Early maladaptive schemas are worked on with a schema therapy-trained therapist, addressing all causes and types of schemas. In the first phase of therapy, information about schema therapy is provided. Then, through forms, the schemas in the person are identified.

There are 18 maladaptive schemas in 5 different areas. 1. Other-Directedness: Approval Seeking, Subjugation, Self-Sacrifice 2. Impaired Limits: Insufficient Self-Control, Entitlement/Grandiosity 3. Impaired Autonomy/Failure: Enmeshment, Failure, Vulnerability 4. Disconnection and Rejection: Defectiveness, Social Isolation/Alienation, Abandonment/Instability, Emotional Deprivation, Mistrust/Abuse 5. Overvigilance and Inhibition: Unrelenting Standards, Emotional Inhibition, Pessimism, Punitiveness

Techniques Used in Schema Therapy: Schema Diary, Coping Card, Imagery Exercises, Behavioral Techniques, Empathic Confrontation

Areas worked on in Schema Therapy: Personality disorders, Eating disorders, Relationship problems, Anxiety and other psychological issues are addressed.