Modes in schema therapy are grouped into four main categories:
- Child modes: These are emotional states that resemble how you feel. They can be positive (happy child) or negative (vulnerable child, angry child, impulsive child, etc.).
- Parent modes: These are internalized voices of your parents or caregivers. They can be supportive (healthy parent) or critical (punitive parent, demanding parent, etc.).
- Coping modes: These are ways of dealing with your schemas and emotions. They can be adaptive (problem-solving, self-care, etc.) or maladaptive (surrendering, avoiding, overcompensating, etc.).
- Healthy adult mode: This is the optimal mode that schema therapy aims to develop. It is a balanced and realistic way of thinking, feeling, and behaving that meets your needs and respects others.
You can also consult a therapist who specializes in schema therapy if you want to learn more about your modes and how to change them.
