Schema Therapy & Chairwork: An Integrative Approach To Deep-seated Change

By Author: ELLA
Total Articles: 7
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Schema Therapy (ST) by Jeffery Young is a combined psychotherapy that seeks to treat long-standing, complicated mental problems, including personality disorders and deeply embedded emotional problems. Developed on the basis of classical Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), ST adapts elements of Gestalt therapy, psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, and emotional-focused therapy (EFT). The extensive, multi-faceted foundation allows ST to engage with deep patterns–Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS) developed in childhood and consolidated through maladaptive coping mechanisms during the entire life.

One of the cornerstones of Schema Therapy's success is the experiential work that makes possible emotional processing and deep changes of perception and behavior. Chairwork is one of the most effective and catalytic interventions among them, and the combined approach of Schema Therapy and Chairwork is thus a dynamic couple for enduring psychological healing.