Working with Modes in Schema Therapy

Schema therapy (ST) is an integrative model of psychotherapy, and ST work based on the mode model (a.k.a. mode work) is a prime example of this integration. The etiological/developmental theory underling ST shares many of the assumptions of attachment theory as well as psychodynamic theories, such as object relations, self psychology, and relational psychoanalysis. Its pragmatism stems from Beck's cognitive therapy, from which it emerged. The experiential techniques that play a central role in mode work are rooted in gestalt and process-experiential approaches. Finally, the objectives of mode work are both experiential and cognitive, and it (like all of ST) makes extensive use of relational, cognitive, behavioral, and experiential tools. This chapter begins with a theoretical introduction to the ST mode model. We explain how the mode concept has become central to the practice of ST, and present the taxonomy of modes, along with a developmental account of their etiology. We then review the extant evidence for the mode model. The greater part of the chapter illustrates the clinical work that stems from this model—that is, mode work. We conclude with a discussion of the limitations of this work and the future directions we hope it takes