What is Schema Therapy
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Schema therapy is an extension of traditional Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). It is a flexible and integrative therapy which also incorporates techniques from CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Attachment Theory and Gestalt therapy. Schemas are important beliefs and feelings we have about ourselves, our relationships with others and our environment which we accept without question. We view the world through our schemas. Problematic schemas initially develop during childhood or adolescence and, if they remain unchallenged, become reinforced throughout our life. Situations which trigger our unhelpful schemas result in us experiencing distressing emotions and in utilising unhealthy coping strategies to manage these emotions. Schema therapy aims to heal problematic schemas and so eliminate the need for unhealthy coping behaviours.
Further information on schema therapy:
https://www.schemainstitute.co.uk/understanding-schema-therapy/
https://www.attachmentproject.com/blog/early-maladaptive-schemas/
Recommended Reading: Reinventing Your Life by Jeffrey Young and Janet Klosko and Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns by Gitta Jacob et al.