Schema Therapy: An Introduction and Overview of (Workshop 1)

Schema Therapy is an evidence-based treatment for Personality Disorders and ‘hard-to-treat’ presentations and problems. Derived from cognitive behavioural-therapy, schema therapy incorporates and emphasises a number of affect change techniques, such as imagery rescripting and chair work, and the concept of Limited Reparenting in addition to cognitive and behavioural techniques in order to create change. The concept of early maladaptive schemas (or traits) and modes (or states) and how these derive from early experiences and the frustration of core emotional needs are central to schema therapy. In this training, you will learn the underlying theory of Schema Therapy, an overview of its evidence base and a thorough understanding of 20 schemas (including the original 18) and key modes. In addition, you will leave knowing the key treatment techniques and unique treatment aspects of schema therapy. This will be done through a mixture of live demonstration, videos, and considerable participant practice.

By the end of this training participants will have:

• Knowledge of the evidence-base of Schema Therapy
• An understanding of why Schema Therapy was created from CBT
• An understanding of 20 maladaptive schemas (including the original 18)
• An understanding of key Modes including the Vulnerable Child, critic modes and coping modes.
• An understanding of questionnaires and techniques used in schema therapy assessment, including imagery assessment.
• Discussed and practiced using a schema / mode diary or Flashcard.
• Knowledge of conceptualisation in Schema Therapy.
• A thorough understanding of the 4 change components of Schema therapy: Limited Reparenting, cognitive techniques, affective (emotional) techniques and behavioural pattern breaking.
• A thorough understanding of the theory, principles and paired practice of imagery rescripting (stage 1) and chair work (for assessment and limit setting / change)
• A detailed understanding of the Detached Protector (coping mode), its variants, and Critic Modes including how they develop and key treatment change techniques
• There will also be self-reflective components around how our own schemas and modes can impact upon therapy.
• A thorough understanding of Borderline Personality Disorder and its treatment from a Schema Therapy Perspective.

This workshop forms the first, of 2, 3 day workshops which can count towards the training curriculum for Schema Therapy accreditation is certified by the International Society of Schema Therapy (ISST).  Participants do not have to be working towards accreditation to take part. A kept focus of this training is in applying Schema Therapy to individuals with a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. This workshop consists of 15 hours of didactic teaching and 7.5 hours of role-play practice.

About your Presenter - Chris Hepworth

Clinical Psychologist | Accredited Advanced Schema Therapist, Trainer & Supervisor

Chris Hepworth is a Clinical Psychologist based in Perth, Western Australia, and the lead trainer for Hepworth Psychology Training. He is an accredited advanced schema therapist, trainer, and supervisor, with extensive experience delivering Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) training in Australia, internationally, and online.

Chris is known for his warm, clear, and practical teaching style, supporting participants to leave training with skills they can apply immediately in their clinical work. He has delivered Schema Therapy training for around eight years and has also been a trainer for the Australian Psychological Society across courses in psychologist supervision, DBT, and Schema Therapy.

Alongside his training work, Chris maintains a small private practice and is the Clinical Lead of the DBTeen Program in Western Australia (Lifeline), where he provides clinical consultation and guidance to DBTeen group clinicians and to Lifeline on clinical aspects of the program. He has coordinated and delivered DBT programs within the public health system for a number of years and provides individual DBT skills training through private practice.

Chris’s clinical work is informed by Schema Therapy, DBT, EMDR, and other cognitive-behavioural therapies, with a strong emphasis on relational depth, attunement, and practical change

Course Details:

• Venue: The Wembley Hotel, 344 Cambridge St, Wembley WA 6014
• Dates: Tuesday 8th, Wednesday 9th and Thursday 10th 2026 
• Times: Registration from 8:40 on Tuesday 8th September, course commences at 9am each day and finishes at 4:30.
• Catering: Lunch, morning and afternoon tea provided each day.
• Price: $749 before 30th June, $799 thereafter. 

Cancellation Policy

For cancellations: Up to 10 days in advance, payment will be refunded, minus a $50 administration fee. At less than 10 days notice, there will be a refund of 50% of the fee. No refunds will be made under 5 working days prior to the commencement of the event.