Introduction to Schema Therapy

The course will be an introduction to Schema Therapy which is an effective approach in treating chronic psychological problems, especially personality disorders. Schema Therapy is an adaptation of cognitive-behavioral therapy integrated with attachment theory, humanistic therapies and psychodynamic concepts. During the course a theoretical framework will be covered with some practical issues, concerning mainly a case conceptualization and basic therapeutic skills. Moreover, video demonstrations will give you a brief insight into principles of Schema Therapy practice and therapeutic techniques.

For many years, personality disorders have been seen as difficult to treat and are still viewed as a big challenge in a psychotherapy field. Schema Therapy, an approach introduced by Jeffrey Young in the early 90’s, was developed to treat non-responders to traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy. Research conducted in the last two decades confirmed that Schema Therapy is effective for individuals with almost full range of personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder. Thus, this evidence-based approach is becoming more and more popular among therapists and clients in many countries all around the world.

The main objective of this course is to give you an insight into how this therapy works, what are its theoretical foundations and therapeutic techniques used during treatment. We will cover the main constructs used in Schema Therapy, such as early maladaptive schemas, schema modes and core needs. You will learn how to assess schemas, how to conceptualize client’s problems and finally, you will be able to see how it works in practice and develop some basic therapeutic skills. Both, theoretical background and practical aspects, will be presented in an interactive way. Video materials and case studies will be used to demonstrate clinical work.

Seminar will be divided in 5 main blocks. Exact dates of classes will be provided during the first class.

Introductory class. Main constructs: basic needs, early maladaptive schemas and modes.

Arntz, A. & Jacob, G. (2013). Basics. Schema therapy in practice: an introductory guide to the schema mode approach (pp. 5-39). Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Schema modes.

Arntz, A. & Jacob, G. (2013). The Mode Concept. Schema therapy in practice: an introductory guide to the schema mode approach (2.1-2.2; pp. 41-61). Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Lobbestael, J., van Vreeswijk, M., Arntz, A. (2007). Shedding light on schema modes: A clarification of the mode concept and its current research status. Netherlands Journal of Psychology, 63, 76-85.

Case conceptualization in Schema Therapy.

Arntz, A. & Jacob, G. (2013). The Mode Concept. Schema therapy in practice: an introductory guide to the schema mode approach (2.3-2.4; pp. 61-90). Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

van Genderen, H. (2012). Case conceptualization in Schema Therapy. (Part II, Chapter 6 in: M. van Vreeswijk, J. Broersen, & M. Nadort (eds.) The Wiley-Blackwell Handbook of Schema Therapy. Theory, Research, and Practice)

Treatment planning. Therapeutic relationship.

Arntz, A. & Jacob, G. (2013). Treatment Overview. Schema therapy in practice: an introductory guide to the schema mode approach (pp. 103-115). Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Therapeutic techniques in Schema Therapy. Practical aspects.

van Vreeswijk, M., Broersen, J., Bloo, J. & Haeyen, S. (2012). Techniques within Schema Therapy. (Part III, Chapter 3 in: M. van Vreeswijk, J. Broersen, & M. Nadort (eds.) The Wiley-Blackwell Handbook of Schema Therapy. Theory, Research, and Practice)

- to make an assessment and basic case conceptualization using Schema Therapy framework.

- Knowledge about possible applications of Schema Therapy.

- Ability to use basic therapeutic skills.

Two tests assessing your understanding of theoretical issues covered during previous classes and relevant literature indicated above. [2 x 50 points.]

In order to pass the course both each test needs to be above 60%.

Grading:

2 (fail) < 60 points

3 60-63

3.5 64-69

4 70-79

4.5 80-89

5 90-95

5! >95

One unexcused absence (2hrs) is permitted. An additional absence is permitted with formal excuse. More than 2 absences result in course failure.

Students must respect the principles of academic integrity. Cheating and plagiarism (including copying work from other students, internet or other sources) are serious violations that are punishable and instructors are required to report all cases to the administration.