Introduction to Schema Therapy: Part 2 - maladaptive coping modes & basic therapeutic techniques

CPD courses for psychologists

Schema Therapy, developed by Dr Jeffrey Young in the 1990s, is a powerful integrative psychotherapy model that blends cognitive-behavioural, attachment, and emotion-focused approaches. It has proven particularly effective for clients with complex, treatment-resistant issues.

In Part 2 of this two-part webinar series, Clinical Psychologist Nicky Abdinor builds on the foundational material from Part 1 and explores the key concept of maladaptive coping modes. These modes—such as avoidance, surrender, and overcompensation—develop as protective mechanisms in response to unmet core emotional needs and early maladaptive schemas. Nicky discusses how these coping styles manifest in adult life and interfere with emotional healing and healthy functioning.

The presentation also provides an overview of basic therapeutic techniques used in Schema Therapy, with a focus on strengthening the “Healthy Adult Mode” to support clients in meeting their emotional needs more adaptively. Clinicians will gain practical insights into applying Schema Therapy in-session, making this webinar highly relevant for those new to the model, considering accreditation, or wanting to revisit core clinical concepts.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - Part 3. Lack of Contact with Values vs Values and Inaction/Impulsivity vs Committed_Action
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - Part 2. Fusion vs Defusion and Avoidance vs Acceptance
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Enhancing Outcomes in Eating Disorder Treatment: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E)
DBT and CBT: Demystifying Differences
Helping families Help: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Eating Disorder Recovery
Safety, Connection and the Autonomic Nervous System: Attachment Theory and Polyvagal Theory
Understanding ADHD Through an Executive Functioning Lens