Schema therapy is a popular evidence-based form of therapy designed to help change deep, longstanding thought patterns that began in childhood or adolescence. These thought patterns (known as ‘schemas’) impact how we think, feel and relate to others. By combining techniques like CBT and attachment theory, schema therapy can help people understand where these dysfunctional patterns came from, so that they can more easily break free of them.
Many clinics around the world integrate schema therapy into their work, however some have made it their focus. Below are a few examples of top practices around the world that specialise in schema therapy.
#1) Solace Psychology – Melbourne, Australia
Solace Psychology celebrates its 10th anniversary operating in Melbourne this year. The practice is renowned for their work in schema therapy and EMDR-informed psychological support. Ran by a team of AHPRA-registered psychologists with varied clinical interests, the clinic stands out for its ability to accommodate a range of clients by pairing each one with a therapist whose experience and therapeutic style suits their needs. They have particular expertise in addressing long-term patterns in mood, self-esteem and relationships.
#2) Cognitive Therapy Center of New York – NYC, USA
Based in New York City, the Cognitive Therapy Center of New York is widely associated with schema therapy with most of its team receiving training at the Schema Therapy Institute directly from its founder Dr Jeffrey Young. The clinic works with clients who feel ‘stuck’ in recurring life themes (like abandonment, failure and mistrust) and helps them understand and change these schemas. Therapy is structured, yet compassionate and customised to each client.
#3) Restoring Peace – Singapore
Restoring Peace in Singapore provides schema therapy for individuals of all ages, stating on their site that their clients range from ‘five year olds to seniors’. Their practise provides a calm, supportive setting and they have a team of experienced therapists who work collaboratively to help clients. Common mental health issues that Restoring Peace treats include anxiety, shame and relationship problems. They’re a top clinic in Asia, attracting clients from around the world.
#4) Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center of Silicon Valley – San Jose, USA
Led by celebrated therapist Laura Johnson, Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center of Silicon Valley is a top practice when it comes to schema therapy and CBT. Clients travel from across the US to address long-standing negative thought patterns. This clinic is a particularly good choice for those battling social anxiety of OCD – positive reviews praise the clinic’s evidence-based approaches to treating these conditions.
#5) The Wave Clinic – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Wave Clinic are specialists in treating eating disorders, BPD and trauma in teens and young adults. Schema therapy plays a central role in treating these conditions – particularly BPD. The environment is designed to be nurturing and growth-oriented with clients learning to replace unhealthy core beliefs through structured sessions. Their main office is based in Kuala Lumpur, but they also have clinics in London and Dubai.
#6) Kuhler & Partners International Mental Health – The Hague, Netherlands
Serving clients around the globe, Kuhler & Partners International Mental Health specialises in e-health services and has a vast team of psychologists that speak a range of different languages. Schema focused therapy is something they are particularly renowned for (just be wary that they do have a long waiting list). Clients are taught to make sense of rigid negative patterns and adapt these to make them more healthy. The clinic also provides therapy approaches like EMDR and pharmacotherapy.
#7) The Chelsea Psychology Clinic – London, UK
The Chelsea Psychology Clinic is a private clinic in London that provides high quality psychological care (with schema therapy being one of its key approaches). Their team works with clients who feel trapped in recurring life themes such as perfectionism, self-criticism or fear of rejection. By tracing these struggles back to their origins, clients are able to undo negative thought patterns. The clinic gets many positive reviews and has over 20 years of experience.
#8) Mindsight Therapy – Vancouver, Canada
Mindsight Therapy is led by certified schema therapist and celebrated Canadian psychologist Shelley Ugyan. Clients receive guidance on how to develop healthy boundaries and kinder inner dialogues, with many reporting positive results after the first 80 minute session. This Vancouver-based clinic is also renowned for its integration of hypnosis-based therapy – helping teens and young people to battle issues like anxiety and disorders through guided relaxation.
#9) Thrive Wellbeing Centre – Dubai, UAE
Located in Dubai, Thrive Wellbeing Centre is led by Dr Sarah Rasmi and has become revered for its warm, compassionate expert care. Schema therapy is heavily used to help treat conditions like depression, anxiety and relationship issues. The clinic employs top psychiatrists from around the world in order to treat clients from different cultural backgrounds. Therapy services are available in a range of languages including English, Arabic, French, Greek, Hindi and Urdu.
#10) Paris Psychology Centre – Paris, France
This Paris-based practice employs experienced therapists that speak English and has made a name for itself for its international service – providing in-clinic and online sessions. Schema-based therapy is provided to treat conditions ranging from stress to procrastination. Anyone around the world can sign up to their virtual therapy service with average sessions lasting 50 minutes. They offer transparent pricing on their site and accept private health insurance.
Choosing a psychology practice for schema therapy
It’s important to find a clinic that is local to you or one that provides virtual sessions. Make sure that therapists at the clinic are qualified to carry out schema therapy and that they have experience treating your condition. Remember that you can try out multiple different therapists and practises – it might take a while to find a professional who you feel you truly connect with and who you feel gets results. At the same time, understand that patience is required to undo negative through patterns, so don’t expect to be treated in one session. The cost of schema therapy can also vary massively so make sure to shop around until you find a service that is within your budget.
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Our Editorial Team are writers and experts in their field. Their views and opinions may not always be the views of Wellbeing Magazine. If you are under the direction of medical supervision please speak to your doctor or therapist before following the advice and recommendations in these articles.
