Schema Therapy
Schema Therapy is an integrative and comprehensive form of psychotherapy designed to address deeply ingrained patterns called “schemas” which develop during childhood and adolescence. These schemas influence our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us, thereby impacting our thoughts, emotions, and decisions.
The Power of Schemas
We all have schemas. These schemas are formed in our childhood and adolescence and stay with us throughout adulthood unless we address them.
Understanding our schemas is crucial because they operate on an unconscious level, profoundly shaping how we view ourselves and others. These deeply ingrained patterns influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, often leading to self-sabotaging actions and decisions.
By recognizing and addressing our schemas, we can break free from these automatic, negative cycles and make healthier, more conscious choices in our everyday lives.
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Abandonment /Instability
Mistrust/Abuse
Emotional Deprivation
Dependence
Vulnerability to Harm
Enmeshment
Defectiveness/Shame
Social Isolation
Approval-Seeking
Failure
Subjugation
Self-Sacrifice
Unrelenting Standards
Negativity
Entitlement
Insufficient Self-Control
Emotional Inhibition
Punitiveness
How Schema Therapy Works
In Schema Therapy, therapists collaborate closely with clients to identify and understand their core emotional patterns, or schemas, along with the underlying needs and beliefs that sustains these wounds.
Clients are guided to recognize and challenge their maladaptive schemas, transforming them into healthier, more adaptive ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
This therapy also highlights the importance of healing emotional wounds through reparenting techniques, nurturing the inner child, and offering clients the emotional support and validation they may have missed during childhood.
Approach to Schema Therapy
At Healing Narratives Counselling, we offer a holistic and personalized approach to Schema Therapy, designed to meet each individual's unique needs and experiences. We create a safe and supportive space for clients to examine their negative core beliefs, understand their origins, and develop effective strategies for healing and growth. By integrating cognitive restructuring, experiential techniques, and interpersonal interventions, we assist clients in overcoming old patterns of thinking and behaviour, fostering greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being.