Schema Therapy in Livermore, CA

Photo of Jeanine Pontes-Boelter, PhD, Psychologist
Jeanine Pontes-Boelter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Livermore, CA 94550
Have you noticed that your teenager has lost weight, is counting calories, or has become a picky eater? Act now and get your child assessed for an eating disorder. I specialize in treating adolescents who have eating disorders and I use the most effective treatment methods backed by research (FBT). I also specialize in treating adults who struggle with their relationship with food (Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, Emotional Overeating).
Have you noticed that your teenager has lost weight, is counting calories, or has become a picky eater? Act now and get your child assessed for an eating disorder. I specialize in treating adolescents who have eating disorders and I use the most effective treatment methods backed by research (FBT). I also specialize in treating adults who struggle with their relationship with food (Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, Emotional Overeating).
(925) 885-6734 View (925) 885-6734

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kosta Condous, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kosta Condous
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches including CBT, DBT, person-centered, and schema therapy interventions.
I have found that my approach is a good fit for adolescents and young adults working through difficult transitions and looking to improve their overall well-being. Working with males is a particular passion of mine, as I empathize with the difficulties many male clients face in therapy and work to support them through the stigma and become more comfortable expressing their emotions in a more healthy manner.
I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches including CBT, DBT, person-centered, and schema therapy interventions.
I have found that my approach is a good fit for adolescents and young adults working through difficult transitions and looking to improve their overall well-being. Working with males is a particular passion of mine, as I empathize with the difficulties many male clients face in therapy and work to support them through the stigma and become more comfortable expressing their emotions in a more healthy manner.
(559) 543-9537 View (559) 543-9537
Photo of Alexa Bustamante, LPCC, Counselor
Alexa Bustamante
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dublin, CA 94568
Hi, my name is Alexa Bustamante, LPCC 16345. My lens to healing seeks to understand the needs of each individual client and meet them where they are. My areas of practice acknowledge communication, cognitive and behavioral patterns as an outcome of a humanistic experience(s), and survival. I explore presenting concerns, maladaptive thought patterns/behaviors, and impactful wounds through a series of modalities, a few being: Attachment therapy, Narrative therapy, Emotion-focused therapy, Psychoeducation, and DBT.
Hi, my name is Alexa Bustamante, LPCC 16345. My lens to healing seeks to understand the needs of each individual client and meet them where they are. My areas of practice acknowledge communication, cognitive and behavioral patterns as an outcome of a humanistic experience(s), and survival. I explore presenting concerns, maladaptive thought patterns/behaviors, and impactful wounds through a series of modalities, a few being: Attachment therapy, Narrative therapy, Emotion-focused therapy, Psychoeducation, and DBT.
(925) 316-1524 View (925) 316-1524
Photo of Christian Rizea, PsyD, Psychologist
Christian Rizea
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dublin, CA 94568  (Online Only)
Are anxiety, depression, or relationship issues weighing you down? As a psychologist specializing in men's mental health, I provide a safe and confidential space for you to tackle these unique challenges. With a focus on empathy and understanding, I am here to help you navigate the complexities of your emotions, unconscious thought processes, and maladaptive behaviors. Together, we will: Break Down Emotional Barriers and Negative Patterns, Increase Coping Skills, and Strengthen Relationships.
Are anxiety, depression, or relationship issues weighing you down? As a psychologist specializing in men's mental health, I provide a safe and confidential space for you to tackle these unique challenges. With a focus on empathy and understanding, I am here to help you navigate the complexities of your emotions, unconscious thought processes, and maladaptive behaviors. Together, we will: Break Down Emotional Barriers and Negative Patterns, Increase Coping Skills, and Strengthen Relationships.
(925) 369-4135 View (925) 369-4135
Photo of Emma Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
My name is Emma Johnson, as a licensed clinical social worker, I like to empower your own natural capacity for healing. My main focus areas are complex trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, emerging adulthood, and relational challenges. I enjoy working with clients who have been in therapy for years and haven't seen results or are brand new to therapy (and maybe a little skeptical). Most of all, I work best with clients who are open to trying new things and come ready to share their questions and reservations.
My name is Emma Johnson, as a licensed clinical social worker, I like to empower your own natural capacity for healing. My main focus areas are complex trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, emerging adulthood, and relational challenges. I enjoy working with clients who have been in therapy for years and haven't seen results or are brand new to therapy (and maybe a little skeptical). Most of all, I work best with clients who are open to trying new things and come ready to share their questions and reservations.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Elisabet Revilla, LCP, Psychologist
Elisabet Revilla
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I'm a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience helping adults and their families. I'm particularly experienced in trauma, mood problems, life transitions, and relationship challenges, and I work from a relational lens to promote healing and growth using evidence-based interventions. My approach is strengths-based, solution-focused, affirming, culturally and trauma-informed, and grounded in the present moment. My commitment to you is to provide a safe space to explore, heal, and integrate your unique identities.
I'm a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience helping adults and their families. I'm particularly experienced in trauma, mood problems, life transitions, and relationship challenges, and I work from a relational lens to promote healing and growth using evidence-based interventions. My approach is strengths-based, solution-focused, affirming, culturally and trauma-informed, and grounded in the present moment. My commitment to you is to provide a safe space to explore, heal, and integrate your unique identities.
(747) 836-1283 View (747) 836-1283
Photo of Jacquelin Garcia De Santiago, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquelin Garcia De Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jacquelin Garcia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Kern County and working with clients throughout California via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, and adjustment disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-based Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Trauma Therapy to help my clients make progress and regain control of their lives. My approach to therapy varies on the needs and impairments of each client based on current stressors and symptom presentation.
Hello! My name is Jacquelin Garcia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Kern County and working with clients throughout California via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, and adjustment disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-based Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Trauma Therapy to help my clients make progress and regain control of their lives. My approach to therapy varies on the needs and impairments of each client based on current stressors and symptom presentation.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569

Online Therapists

Photo of Mark A Ryan, PsyD, Psychologist
Mark A Ryan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based treatments including Schema Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Our struggles can often help us learn more about ourselves, our values, and what matters to us. I work collaboratively with clients to understand how to embrace and express these values in their everyday lives. I incorporate Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction into my work which is an effective tool in raising awareness of our behavioral choices, coping with stress, and increasing focus. I find the therapeutic process to be an exciting and challenging endeavor that enhances our lives and pushes us towards continuous growth. Cultivating mindful awareness helps us take more deliberate steps of action to improve our lives.
I utilize evidence-based treatments including Schema Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Our struggles can often help us learn more about ourselves, our values, and what matters to us. I work collaboratively with clients to understand how to embrace and express these values in their everyday lives. I incorporate Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction into my work which is an effective tool in raising awareness of our behavioral choices, coping with stress, and increasing focus. I find the therapeutic process to be an exciting and challenging endeavor that enhances our lives and pushes us towards continuous growth. Cultivating mindful awareness helps us take more deliberate steps of action to improve our lives.
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Photo of Christian Trausch, LCP, Psychologist
Christian Trausch
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
Dr. Christian Trausch is a licensed clinical forensic psychologist (PSY27219) with experience working with the Department of Corrections, the Department of State Hospitals, and Community support groups for alternative lifestyles such as polyamory and relationship anarchy. My preferred therapy modality is Schema Therapy, a third-wave therapy that integrates psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and gestalt principles. I believe that good therapy needs to go beyond just changing thoughts and behavior. I believe self-exploration and deep personal insight are required for personal growth and prosperity.
Dr. Christian Trausch is a licensed clinical forensic psychologist (PSY27219) with experience working with the Department of Corrections, the Department of State Hospitals, and Community support groups for alternative lifestyles such as polyamory and relationship anarchy. My preferred therapy modality is Schema Therapy, a third-wave therapy that integrates psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and gestalt principles. I believe that good therapy needs to go beyond just changing thoughts and behavior. I believe self-exploration and deep personal insight are required for personal growth and prosperity.
(323) 968-6465 View (323) 968-6465
Photo of Lori Sparrow, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Sparrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I help anxious clients who want to build healthy relationships and meaningful lives . I specialize in treating anxiety disorders including panic, fear of flying, general anxiety, OCD, and social anxiety, with evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I treat individuals and couples with relationship issues including addiction using Schema therapy, ACT, and Gottman methods. I am a behaviorist and believe changing behaviors is fundamental to changing outcomes. I work with clients on active life skills and narratives to thrive and create meaning and connection. I work with psychiatrists, physicians and support 12 step groups.
I help anxious clients who want to build healthy relationships and meaningful lives . I specialize in treating anxiety disorders including panic, fear of flying, general anxiety, OCD, and social anxiety, with evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I treat individuals and couples with relationship issues including addiction using Schema therapy, ACT, and Gottman methods. I am a behaviorist and believe changing behaviors is fundamental to changing outcomes. I work with clients on active life skills and narratives to thrive and create meaning and connection. I work with psychiatrists, physicians and support 12 step groups.
(415) 712-2208 View (415) 712-2208
Photo of Laura Johnson - Laura Johnson, CBT and Schema Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Johnson, CBT and Schema Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
I also offer Schema Therapy for relationship problems and personality disorders.
Start creating more helpful thinking and behavioral patterns! My focus is to help you gain confidence, feel less anxious and think and act differently. I am one of the few therapists certified in CBT and schema therapy, which means I can help you get to the underlying issues so you can break unhealthy emotional, relationship and personality patterns. I specialize in practical, goal-oriented CBT for anxiety, OCD and social anxiety. I also use schema therapy with personality problems like avoidant, obsessive-compulsive, narcissistic and borderline personality. Schema therapy can turbocharge CBT. Visit CBTSV.com to learn more.
I also offer Schema Therapy for relationship problems and personality disorders.
Start creating more helpful thinking and behavioral patterns! My focus is to help you gain confidence, feel less anxious and think and act differently. I am one of the few therapists certified in CBT and schema therapy, which means I can help you get to the underlying issues so you can break unhealthy emotional, relationship and personality patterns. I specialize in practical, goal-oriented CBT for anxiety, OCD and social anxiety. I also use schema therapy with personality problems like avoidant, obsessive-compulsive, narcissistic and borderline personality. Schema therapy can turbocharge CBT. Visit CBTSV.com to learn more.
(408) 676-4734 View (408) 676-4734
Photo of Yeni Towver - Nurturing Mind, Body & Spirit, Soc Work, Prof Corp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nurturing Mind, Body & Spirit, Soc Work, Prof Corp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94578  (Online Only)
As a first-generation Mexican-American mother, grandmother, military wife, and spiritual woman, I use an array of modalities tailored to clients' needs such as CBT, Schema Therapy, Inner Child, and spirituality.
Nurturing Mind, Body & Spirit is committed to helping clients create an authentic relationship where clients can cultivate their mental well-being, nurture inner peace, and unlock their full potential. We provide a supportive safe space that empowers individuals, couples, and families to embark on a transformative journey of personal growth and healing.
As a first-generation Mexican-American mother, grandmother, military wife, and spiritual woman, I use an array of modalities tailored to clients' needs such as CBT, Schema Therapy, Inner Child, and spirituality.
Nurturing Mind, Body & Spirit is committed to helping clients create an authentic relationship where clients can cultivate their mental well-being, nurture inner peace, and unlock their full potential. We provide a supportive safe space that empowers individuals, couples, and families to embark on a transformative journey of personal growth and healing.
(510) 737-5529 View (510) 737-5529
Photo of Alana Kivowitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Kivowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
My approach is integrative, holistic, and relational, drawing from evidence-based practices tailored to your unique strengths and needs, including ACT, DBT, CBT, and Schema Therapy.
I believe that our connection, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and empathy, is the cornerstone of effective therapy. Together, we will nurture a collaborative and supportive dynamic to create a solid foundation for your journey towards processing trauma, fostering self-acceptance, and achieving personal growth and transformation. Whether you're aiming to overcome trauma or to gain empowerment and mastery over your life, I am here to assist you in discovering what brings meaning and fulfillment to your life.
My approach is integrative, holistic, and relational, drawing from evidence-based practices tailored to your unique strengths and needs, including ACT, DBT, CBT, and Schema Therapy.
I believe that our connection, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and empathy, is the cornerstone of effective therapy. Together, we will nurture a collaborative and supportive dynamic to create a solid foundation for your journey towards processing trauma, fostering self-acceptance, and achieving personal growth and transformation. Whether you're aiming to overcome trauma or to gain empowerment and mastery over your life, I am here to assist you in discovering what brings meaning and fulfillment to your life.
(415) 481-3567 View (415) 481-3567
Photo of Carol Olmos Crawley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Olmos Crawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Morgan Hill, CA 95037  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
(669) 322-3302 View (669) 322-3302
Photo of Lian Zhu, PhD, Psychologist
Lian Zhu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94555  (Online Only)
I utilize the evidence-based treatments of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and schema therapy in my practice.
I am a second generation Chinese-American clinical psychologist. I completed postdoctoral training at Stanford Medicine and have expertise in teaching tools to navigate intense emotions such as anxiety and anger, and improve self-confidence and relationship satisfaction. I also specialize in teaching communication skills for couples and families such as conflict resolution, setting and maintaining boundaries, and expressing and getting relationship needs met. I'm particularly passionate about working with individuals from multicultural backgrounds, such as being a first or second generation immigrant or mixed race.
I utilize the evidence-based treatments of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and schema therapy in my practice.
I am a second generation Chinese-American clinical psychologist. I completed postdoctoral training at Stanford Medicine and have expertise in teaching tools to navigate intense emotions such as anxiety and anger, and improve self-confidence and relationship satisfaction. I also specialize in teaching communication skills for couples and families such as conflict resolution, setting and maintaining boundaries, and expressing and getting relationship needs met. I'm particularly passionate about working with individuals from multicultural backgrounds, such as being a first or second generation immigrant or mixed race.
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Photo of Ricardo Almada, PsyD, Psychologist
Ricardo Almada
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94526
As a psychologist, I provide psychotherapy and psychological evaluation services. I typically utilize a CBT approach when providing psychotherapy. However, each parent and client comes to therapy with specific concerns which they would like addressed. To provide the most effective treatment, other modalities may be incorporated after taking into account concerns, diagnosis, and age. Whether it's CBT, mindfulness techniques, ACT, schema therapy, Gottman method, or narrative therapy, our sessions will be unique and goal driven.
As a psychologist, I provide psychotherapy and psychological evaluation services. I typically utilize a CBT approach when providing psychotherapy. However, each parent and client comes to therapy with specific concerns which they would like addressed. To provide the most effective treatment, other modalities may be incorporated after taking into account concerns, diagnosis, and age. Whether it's CBT, mindfulness techniques, ACT, schema therapy, Gottman method, or narrative therapy, our sessions will be unique and goal driven.
(925) 515-5686 View (925) 515-5686
Photo of Theresa Carpinito Kira, PsyD, Psychologist
Theresa Carpinito Kira
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I incorporate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, and other self-compassion and mindfulness-based techniques.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image concerns, relationship issues, life/role transitions, attachment issues, and trauma. I focus on trying to help my clients identify what is important to them and to find ways to live a more rich and meaningful life. I help to uncover what negative beliefs or patterns might be keeping them stuck while helping to shift perspective on their distress and find ways to move forward. I see adults only in my practice.
I incorporate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, and other self-compassion and mindfulness-based techniques.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image concerns, relationship issues, life/role transitions, attachment issues, and trauma. I focus on trying to help my clients identify what is important to them and to find ways to live a more rich and meaningful life. I help to uncover what negative beliefs or patterns might be keeping them stuck while helping to shift perspective on their distress and find ways to move forward. I see adults only in my practice.
(415) 650-5307 View (415) 650-5307
Photo of Molly Paris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Paris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach tends to be eclectic, pulling from various Psychodynamic theoretical frameworks including Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, as well as DBT and CBT.
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.
My therapeutic approach tends to be eclectic, pulling from various Psychodynamic theoretical frameworks including Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, as well as DBT and CBT.
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.
(619) 658-8738 View (619) 658-8738
Photo of Sora Yoon, MFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sora Yoon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Are you seeking to dive deeper into finding awareness & meaning in life? I work with both children & adults in the areas of developmental trauma, PTSD, child-parent relationship issues & disordered eating issues. I have a background working in both patient & outpatient settings. I bring ability to work with more complicated If you are looking to find someone to help process these difficulties through holistic healing please give a call to see if we are a good fit.
Are you seeking to dive deeper into finding awareness & meaning in life? I work with both children & adults in the areas of developmental trauma, PTSD, child-parent relationship issues & disordered eating issues. I have a background working in both patient & outpatient settings. I bring ability to work with more complicated If you are looking to find someone to help process these difficulties through holistic healing please give a call to see if we are a good fit.
(925) 297-4815 View (925) 297-4815
Photo of Dania Heng - Stonebridge Counseling , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stonebridge Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95811
At Stonebridge Counseling, we help you find the tools you need to overcome life’s challenges because we know that the tools you need to succeed in your life are already within you, our goal is to support you with looking inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose while taking steps to live the life you have always dreamed of living. Hi! I’m Dania Martinez Heng, founder of Stonebridge Counseling. I have helped individuals and families navigate life’s stressors, challenges, and transitions for over 10 years, so that they can feel more empowered, in control and live up to their fullest potential.
At Stonebridge Counseling, we help you find the tools you need to overcome life’s challenges because we know that the tools you need to succeed in your life are already within you, our goal is to support you with looking inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose while taking steps to live the life you have always dreamed of living. Hi! I’m Dania Martinez Heng, founder of Stonebridge Counseling. I have helped individuals and families navigate life’s stressors, challenges, and transitions for over 10 years, so that they can feel more empowered, in control and live up to their fullest potential.
(530) 628-9851 View (530) 628-9851
Schema Therapy

How does schema therapy work?

Schema therapy is based on the idea that maladaptive thought patterns formed in childhood—that other people can never be relied on, for example—can interfere with healthy functioning in adulthood. Accordingly, schema therapy works by directly targeting such unhealthy schemas, identifying their consequences, and replacing them with more adaptive ways of thinking. To this end, schema therapists aim to “reparent” the client by offering what they didn’t get in childhood—validation, for instance, or compassion—to reorient their worldview.

Is schema therapy evidence-based?

Schema therapy is still considered relatively new, and research on its efficacy is still in progress. However, some studies have concluded that it can be effective at treating certain mental health conditions, most notably personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder. Evidence for its efficacy in treating conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD is promising but less conclusive, and experts warn that much of the existing research is of low quality.

Is schema therapy a type of CBT?

Schema therapy is based on many principles of CBT, most notably the process of recognizing and challenging maladaptive thought patterns. But because schema therapy also draws from other approaches,including psychoanalysis and Gestalt therapy, it is not considered a form of CBT. It also typically delves deeper into the client’s childhood than does CBT.

How does schema therapy work?

Schema therapy does not call for a set number of sessions and is instead open-ended, with the treatment timeline depending on the client’s primary concern(s), progress, and preferences. Treatment that lasts between six months and two years is common, though many clients will start to see progress much earlier than that.