What is Schema Therapy?
Unlike other approaches that focus on skill acquisition, Schema Therapy goes beyond symptom management and helps individuals improve their overall quality of life, have healthier relationships and to have a sense of confidence and empowerment in their lives. Through focusing on deeper psychological issues, Schema Therapy has proven to be effective with complex psychological problems, including Personality Disorders, Complex/Developmental Trauma, Chronic Mood Disturbance and interpersonal problems that have not responded to other treatments.
Why do Group Schema Therapy?
Group therapy has proven to be an effective treatment for a number of psychological problems and disorders. There are many benefits of group therapy that can not be achieved in individual therapy. Individuals who have had a history of developmental trauma, sometimes encounter problems in relationships which may include a lack of trust, increased conflict, and feelings of not belonging or a sense of isolation in their mental health difficulties. Group therapy addresses these areas in a way that individual therapy cannot. Many people who have completed group therapy, namely Group Schema Therapy, reflect on how they felt a sense of belonging, normalisation and trust in communicating their emotional needs and opinions with others that had previously been very difficult.
What does the program actually entail?
The Group Schema Therapy program at the Schema Therapy Institute Australia, is an adaptation of Group Schema Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder, that was developed by Professor Joan Farrell & Ms Ida Shaw. The group treatment program integrates psychoeducation on the development of Schemas & Modes and how they relate to psychological problems and symptoms, emotional awareness training, distress management/coping skills and improved relationships.
The Group Schema Therapy program includes 20 Group Sessions that are 2.5 hours in duration and are held during business hours (Day of week TBC). Individual sessions with one of the group facilitators (weekly/fortnightly) is an option for individuals who do not have a individual therapist and in need of additional support.
How much does it cost?
The cost per week for group is $125; A Medicare rebate of $31.65 (per group session) is available* with a Mental Health Plan from your General Practitioner or Consultant Psychiatrist. Participants can obtain a total of 10 group session rebates per calendar year. Participants are provided with a workbook and relevant handouts on a weekly basis. The initial assessment for eligibility is $300 (Medicare rebates may apply) and the following consultations: a) an initial 50 minute session to assess suitability into the program b) a 30 minute feedback session (re: questionnaires and a schema therapy formulation) in weeks 4-5 of group & c) a 30 minute mid group review.
What will be asked of me?
You will be required to undertake an intake assessment with a member of the team to ensure the program is a right fit for your individual needs. Participants are expected to attend all 20 sessions, holidays are to be taken after the completion of the treatment program. Participants are also expected to do all in between session tasks that are set week to week.
When does it start?
The group program is offered twice a year at the start and at the end of the year (April and October Intakes)**
How do I register?
Please register your interest by emailing: info@schematherapyaustralia.com.au; Ms Jessica Alabakis is responsible for group intake and co-ordination and will handle your inquiry.
Who runs the Group Program?
The program is run by registered psychologists, the team of Group Schema Therapists include, Dr Rita Younan & Ms Jessica Alabakis.
*please note the total rebate benefits depend on when group starts in the calendar year.
**these start dates are contingent on group numbers.