Integrating the conceptual framework and meta-cognitive techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) increases our Schema Therapy toolbox especially with difficult patients. Physical changes support mental changes. E.g. standing up together supports distancing, reappraisal and need- and value-based answers on dysfunctional beliefs and behaviour in a healthy adult way. The impact of these techniques is demonstrated and trained in the workshop.

A meta-cognitive perspective changes the way we look at our patient´s beliefs and actions. Rather than the content itself the way thoughts arise and their consequences are regarded. Changing positions and perspectives in the sessions broaden our therapeutic scope and interventions. Instead of e.g. fighting the punitive parent modes we can try to emotionally distance from them into a self-compassionate observer stance by physically standing up and "raising above them". The 3rd-person perspective reduces emotional activation. The therapist and the patient form a "consulting team" reappraising the situation and finding a more functional solution based on the patient´s needs and values leading to committed action. Mindfulness strategies and thought defusion become essential skills of a healthy adult mode. Behaviour pattern breaking is balanced with acceptance strategies. After a short ppt-introduction linking the ACT-“Hexaflex” with the Schema Therapy model and the implications on the applied therapy relationship chair dialogues with an externalizing and a detached patient are demonstrated live. The participants receive a written instruction and train both techniques in dyads.

 -Understanding the Hexaflex as a theoretical framework working with Schema Therapy

- Knowing the basic elements of the Hexaflex and their role in building up a Healthy Adult mode

- Experiencing the effect of changing positions on the therapy relationship

- Experiencing the influence of speakers perspective (1st to 3rd person) on the emotions

- Training position changes in therapy (sitting in front, beside the patient and both standing up)

- Help the angry patient vent anger and bypass detached protectors in a smart way

This workshop will provide 6 hours of the Continuing Education credits in Schema Therapy required biannually for all Certified Schema Therapists.