Schema Therapy

Schema Therapy is a therapy approach developed by American psychologist Jeffrey E. Young in the early 1990s, based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) but enriched with psychodynamic theories, attachment theory and Gestalt techniques.

Schemas are deep thought patterns that develop from experiences we experience from childhood and influence the way we perceive the world. They determine our fundamental beliefs about life, people, and ourselves. They act as mental "templates" and can guide our behaviors, emotions, and relationships throughout our lives.

For example, a child who is frequently criticized as a child may begin to feel constantly inadequate and flawed in later years. Even if he or she receives love and appreciation from those around him or her, this feeling of "flawedness" doesn't change because the schema is deeply ingrained.

Over time, schemas become self-confirming, ingrained belief systems. They are difficult to change because the individual unconsciously chooses situations that reinforce this schema. This creates a cyclical effect. For example, someone with an abandonment schema may exhibit behaviors that test the other person's interest in relationships and ultimately end up truly lonely.

While schemas play a fundamental role in how we make sense of our lives, they often disrupt our psychological balance. They can prevent us from forming close relationships, expressing ourselves freely, or making confident decisions. Therefore, schema therapy helps individuals recognize these structures, understand their causes, and, over time, transform them.