Schema therapy is a therapeutic approach that combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. This treatment modality focuses on identifying and modifying the dysfunctional schemas or core beliefs that people have, which usually develop during childhood and are maintained throughout life, influencing the way they perceive and relate to the environment. world. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, functioning and phases of schema therapy.
Characteristics of Schema Therapy
Schema therapy is characterized by its integrative approach, which combines various therapeutic techniques and strategies to address dysfunctional schemas in a profound and effective way. Some of the most relevant characteristics of this approach are:
1. Multidimensional approach
Schema therapy considers the individual as a complex being, with multiple interrelated aspects that influence their psychological well-being. It focuses on exploring not only superficial thoughts and behaviors, but also the emotions, unmet needs, and past experiences that underlie dysfunctional schemas.
2. Based on schema theory
This approach is based on the schema theory proposed by Jeffrey Young, which postulates that people develop ingrained cognitive and emotional patterns from early experiences, mainly in childhood. . These schemas can influence the perception of oneself and others, as well as the way one interacts with the environment.
3. Attention to unmet emotional needs
Schema therapy focuses on identifying unmet needs in childhood that have led to the formation of dysfunctional schemas. Through the therapeutic relationship, ways are sought to satisfy these needs in a more adaptive way, promoting a significant change in the way the person perceives themselves and others.
4. Use of experiential techniques
In addition to verbal exploration, schema therapy incorporates experiential techniques, such as guided imagery, cognitive restructuring, and emotional expression through creativity. These strategies seek to activate and modify deep emotional schemas, allowing a transformation at a personal level.
How Schema Therapy Works
The therapeutic process in schema therapy follows a series of steps and phases that seek to identify, understand and modify dysfunctional schemes. The main stages of the operation of this therapeutic approach are described below:
1. Initial evaluation
Schema therapy begins with a thorough evaluation of the individual's schemas, modes, and patterns of behavior. The therapist gathers information about personal history, significant relationships, traumatic events, and core beliefs that support dysfunctional schemas. This initial evaluation is essential to establish a personalized treatment plan.
2. Establishment of therapeutic objectives
Once the dysfunctional schemas and associated coping modes have been identified, clear and specific therapeutic objectives are established. These objectives focus on modifying negative schemas, strengthening adaptive schemas, and promoting greater self-knowledge and self-compassion in the individual.
3. Therapeutic intervention
During therapy sessions, various therapeutic techniques and strategies are applied to address the identified dysfunctional schemas. The therapist guides the individual in exploring their automatic thoughts, underlying emotions and behavioral patterns, encouraging reflection and awareness of their own internal experiences.
4. Modification of dysfunctional schemas
Through schema therapy, we seek to modify dysfunctional schemas by identifying irrational thoughts, cognitive restructuring and practicing new healthy behaviors. This process involves challenging limiting beliefs and fostering a more realistic and balanced view of oneself and others.
5. Consolidation of changes
Once the dysfunctional schemes have been modified and new patterns of thought and behavior have been integrated, work is done to consolidate the long-term changes. The individual learns to apply the skills and strategies acquired in different contexts and situations, promoting greater autonomy and emotional well-being.
Phases of Schema Therapy
Schema therapy is organized in various phases that guide the therapeutic process and facilitate effective intervention on dysfunctional schemas. The main phases of this therapeutic approach are described below:
1. Awareness and education phase
In this initial stage, the therapist and patient work together to identify dysfunctional schemas and understand how they affect the individual's daily life. Information on schema theory is provided, past experiences that have contributed to the formation of schemas are explored, and coping modes used are identified.
2. Emotional and experiential phase
During this phase, the exploration of the emotions associated with dysfunctional schemas is deepened. The patient learns to identify, express and regulate their emotions in a healthy way, through experiential techniques such as guided imagination, visualization and artistic expression. It seeks to connect with unmet emotional needs and promote emotional acceptance.
3. Cognitive and behavioral change phase
In this stage, work is done on modifying the automatic thoughts and central beliefs that support dysfunctional schemas. The individual learns to question his or her irrational thoughts, replace them with more realistic and adaptive thoughts, and implement new healthy behaviors in his or her daily life. Self-reflection and self-compassion are encouraged.
4. Closure and consolidation phase
Once significant changes have been achieved in the schemas and the new cognitive-emotional patterns have been integrated, the schema therapy is closed. In this final phase, strategies are worked on to maintain long-term therapeutic achievements, the objectives achieved are reviewed and the individual is prepared to face possible relapses autonomously.
In conclusion, schema therapy is an integrative and profound therapeutic approach that seeks to address dysfunctional schemas at their source, promoting a significant change in the way people perceive themselves and relate to others. Through the identification, understanding and modification of schemas, the development of greater self-awareness, emotional acceptance and psychological well-being is facilitated.