Schema Therapy Melbourne
Schema Therapy aims to bring about a profound emotional shift, helping individuals change not only how they think but also how they feel about themselves and their relationships with others. A number of our psychologists at Positive Wellbeing Psychology have a special interest and additional training in helping individuals overcome entrenched beliefs and behaviours using Schema Therapy. We work collaboratively with clients to explore the origins of their schemas and guide them toward healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and coping. Whether you’ve tried other therapies or are just beginning your journey, Schema Therapy offers an effective pathway to deep and lasting change.
Schema Therapy and when to seek Schema Therapy in Melbourne
What is Schema Therapy?
Schema Therapy is an integrative, evidence-based approach that helps people break free from deeply ingrained emotional patterns and behaviours that may have developed in early life. By identifying and working through these patterns—known as schemas—clients gain a deeper understanding of why they respond to life in certain ways. From there, the focus shifts towards changing those long-standing patterns using techniques such as mindfulness, thought restructuring, imagery, experiential exercises (like chair work), role-play, and skill-building.
Unlike therapies that may focus solely on challenging automatic thoughts that may not be factual but rather assumptions or beliefs that are causing distress, Schema Therapy aims to bring about a profound emotional shift, helping individuals change not only how they think but also how they feel about themselves and their relationships with others.
What is a Schema?
Schemas are core emotional themes or beliefs that influence how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us. These patterns often form in response to unmet emotional needs during childhood, such as the need for love, safety, or acceptance. While schemas serve as coping mechanisms early in life, they can become rigid and unhelpful in adulthood, leading to issues in relationships, self-esteem, and mental wellbeing.
Common negative schemas might include beliefs like “I’m unlovable”, “People will abandon me”, or “I need to be perfect to be accepted”. When triggered, these schemas can lead to distressing emotions and unhelpful coping behaviours like avoidance, overcompensation, or emotional withdrawal.
How Schema Therapy Helps?
Schema Therapy helps by uncovering the root of these patterns and equipping clients with practical tools to break free from them. By learning to recognise and challenge schemas, individuals can move toward a more balanced and fulfilling way of living. Over time, this process can lead to significant improvements in self-worth, emotional wellbeing, and interpersonal relationships.
The therapy is particularly effective for individuals who feel stuck in repeating patterns of unhelpful behaviours or emotions despite trying other therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
What Difficulties Can Schema Therapy Help With?
- Chronic anxiety and depression
- Personality disorders including borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Relationship difficulties including trust issues, fear of abandonment, or unhealthy relationship patterns
- Low self-esteem and negative self-image
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Perfectionism and unrelenting standards
- Emotional dysregulation and impulsivity
- Eating disorders including binge eating and emotional eating
- Anger management issues
- Social anxiety and avoidance
- Attachment issues stemming from childhood experiences
- Rejection sensitive dysphoria
Schema therapy melbourne
How can Positive Wellbeing Psychology help?
At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, our psychologists offer compassionate, personalised support using Schema Therapy. We understand how hard it can be to overcome long-standing patterns, and we’re here to help guide you through that process.
Ready to make a change? Contact us today to learn more about how Schema Therapy can help you or book an appointment with one of our psychologists in Melbourne.
Make an Appointment
At our psychology practice in Melbourne, we provide effective psychological treatments and match you with a psychologist best fitting your individual needs. Book an appointment with one of our experienced psychologists.