Frequently asked questions

Schema Therapy is an evidence-based psychological framework that explores the deep, recurring patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving - called schemas - that influence how we see ourselves and respond to others. These patterns often begin early in life and continue into adulthood, shaping our leadership style, relationships, and decision-making.

In leadership, schemas might show up as imposter syndrome, people-pleasing, perfectionism, self-sacrifice, a relentless pressure to meet very high standards, or self-criticism—patterns that push achievement but also lead to stress, burnout, or reactive decision-making.

Schema coaching adapts the methods and insights of Schema Therapy for high-functioning professionals and executives. Rather than focusing on clinical issues, it helps leaders recognise and work with the subtle yet powerful patterns that shape their leadership style. Using experiential and reflective techniques such as imagery, guided dialogue (including chairwork), and mindfulness, leaders learn to identify unhelpful modes of thinking and respond from a wiser, more grounded sense of self.

In essence, Schema Therapy brings depth and self-awareness to leadership. It helps leaders move beyond old patterns and lead from a wiser, more grounded sense of self—especially in the complex, people-focused environments of education, healthcare, and public service.

Leader Schematix goes beneath behaviour to explore why leaders respond the way they do. While frameworks like Emotional Intelligence and Adaptive Leadership focus on developing awareness, flexibility, and relational skills, Leader Schematix uncovers the underlying patterns - called schemas - that shape those responses in the first place.

By working at an intrinsic level, leaders don’t just learn strategies to manage reactions; they transform the internal drivers that create them. The result is more consistent, grounded leadership that holds steady under pressure and leads with genuine wisdom and self-awareness.

Leaders learn to recognise and manage automatic reactions under pressure, improving their ability to stay grounded, think clearly, and lead teams effectively in challenging moments - whether that’s in a crisis response or organisational change.

Yes. Leader Schematix programs can be tailored for specific contexts, such as tertiary institutions or first responder agencies. Customisation ensures the language, case studies, and learning outcomes align with specific leadership realities.

Workshops are delivered face-to-face for participants to reap maximum benefit from the content and experiential learning exercises. Coaching is offered f2f and online and as a blend.

Chairwork is a powerful and creative method used in coaching, groupwork and Schema Therapy to help people explore different perspectives, emotions, or parts of themselves. It uses dialogue and movement to transform understanding into action - helping people better understand internal conflicts, gain clarity, and strengthen more balanced, compassionate ways of responding.

As a process, chairwork invites you to speak directly to a problem or difficulty, rather than just talking about that problem bringing insight to life through movement and conversation. Chairwork helps leaders respond to life’s challenges with greater wisdom and authenticity.