Schema Therapy: Approaches to helping childhood sexual abuse survivors

This is an intermediate level workshop. It is assumed that attendees have some prior knowledge of the schema therapy model. The training is suitable for experienced practitioners with a solid understanding of trauma who are providing counselling/therapy to adult/adolescent clients with a history of childhood sexual abuse.

This two-day masterclass will focus on the application of Schema Therapy approaches specifically for individuals who have experienced childhood sexual abuse. Schema Therapy is an approach specifically designed to treat complex, enduring and chronic mental health conditions (originating from childhood). The workshop will provide an outline of the model and assist participants in developing skills used in schema therapy.


This workshop is facilitated by Accredited Advanced Schema Therapist Chris Hayes and delivered in Subiaco (details will be provided to registered participants). 

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea will be provided. 

Topic areas:

• The Schema Therapy model and how it can be used to help those with problems linked to childhood abuse.

• Ways to utilise cognitive approaches and behavioural pattern breaking

• Methods to conceptualise difficulties commonly associated with childhood sexual abuse

• The use of imagery rescripting as a tool to process trauma

• Ways to work with shame and defectiveness and fear of

• Ways to work with dissociation, detachment, avoidance and disengagement

• How to better understand and assist with self-harm and suicidal ideation

Queries can be directed to SARCTraining@health.wa.gov.au