Following on from the previous introduction about “What Is Schema Therapy” is and its core components, it’s critical to understand the concept and importance of core emotional needs.
In Schema Therapy the idea about core emotional needs is like they are ‘emotional buttons’, that activate the schema because if it being triggered. The aim is to meet these needs in healthy ways rather than unhelpful ways (ie. avoidance, escapism, control) while at the same time being supported in learning ways to acknowledge and accept the emotional discomfort.
These core needs are:
Connection and Safety: secure attachments, feeling understood, safety, validated, trust, connected
Autonomy: opportunities to independently become your own person and develop your identity
Self-expression: listen to your own needs, freedom to feel and express valid feelings and needs, make your own choices
Spontaneity and play: discovering new things, going on new adventures, having fun, enjoyment and creativity
Realistic Limits: practicing self-control, increasing self-discipline and boundaries, taking responsibility of own behaviours
For whatever reason, these core emotional needs may not be appropriately met in childhood (because we didn’t get them from our caregivers) which contribute to these unmet needs and related uncomfortable emotions (e.g. anxiety, sadness) being triggered in adolescent and adult life.
Overtime and with practice and support, the goal is to strengthen our ‘healthy adult’ part of us to meet our unmet emotional needs without relying on problematic coping behaviours.
Thinking Schema Therapy may be a good fit for you? Reach out to the team at With Grace Therapy.
