Schema Therapy

Schema therapy (ST), developed by Jeffrey Young, is an evidenced-based treatment approach for patients with personality disorders (PDs) and other chronic mental health problems. ST is a therapy method based on a cognitive model, integrating elements and techniques from various theoretical orientations such as attachment theory, cognitive, behavioral, psychodynamic, and experiential therapies. In ST, a special focus is placed on the therapeutic relationship and experiential treatment techniques like chair dialogues and imagery rescripting. While ST is a transdiagnostic approach, disorder-specific case formulations have been developed for most of the PDs. ST has not only proven to be a highly effective and cost-effective treatment option for patients with PDs, but it is also well accepted by both therapists and patients and has very low dropout rates. In this chapter we will provide an overview of the background and underlying theory of ST, as well as information on the practical application and empirical evidence of ST. The case formulation and therapeutic techniques will be illustrated by one case example of a Cluster B and one of a Cluster C personality disorder.