Schema Therapy combines elements of mindfulness, self-compassion, and “inner child work” to address deep-rooted emotional patterns, or schemas, that impact daily life. These schemas often stem from unmet needs in childhood, like abandonment, mistrust, or emotional deprivation, and they can manifest as negative thought and behavior patterns. Through imagery, mindfulness techniques from yoga and Buddhism, and limited reparenting, Schema Therapy provides a structured way to reshape these patterns.

A central approach in Schema Therapy is using therapeutic “antidotes”—positive experiences and practices that counteract harmful schemas. For instance, a schema related to abandonment is balanced with exercises that foster connection, stability, and consistency, while mistrust is counteracted with experiences that build safety and trust. Through inner child work, visualization, and consistent therapeutic support, clients learn to internalize healthier patterns, breaking free from old, restrictive cycles.