Keynote: 35 Years of the Schema Therapy Model of Jeffrey Young

Sustaining the Integrity of the Core Model

Founded by Dr. Jeffrey Young, Schema Therapy has, over the past several decades, grown from a synthesis of cognitive-behavioral, attachment, psychodynamic, and gestalt traditions into a robust, empirically supported treatment for individuals with chronic psychological difficulties.

At the heart of this comprehensively crafted approach to treatment is a foundation, much like a finely constructed building; one that must be preserved and respected if the therapy is to reach its full transformative potential. As schema therapy continues to evolve and adapt to diverse populations and new clinical challenges, the imperative to sustain the integrity of its core model becomes ever more critical.

The popularity of schema therapy has led to its widespread adoption and adaptation. Clinicians from diverse theoretical backgrounds, working in various cultural and institutional contexts, may seek to, at times, modify or streamline the model to fit practical realities, and this is understandable and widely accepted as part of the flexibility of the model with regards to cultural and community sensitivity.

While innovation and integration are an essential part of clinical progress in schema therapy, it can also bring the risk of dilution or too much complexity, not supported by the research. Central concepts—such as the identification and transformation of schemas, the use of imagery and mode work, a focus on identifying early unmet needs and correcting biased emotional experiences, and the therapy relationship—are all part of the distinctive effectiveness of Schema Therapy.  We celebrate the legacy of Dr. Jeffrey Young and take a peek into the evolution of Schema Therapy, this thoughtful and powerfully effective approach for some of the most challenging cases in the treatment room.