Schema Therapy for Eating Disorders

Full-day program, one day per week for 21 weeks (with a scheduled break)

This new group program was developed by Clinical Psychologist Vicki Moir in collaboration with international expert on Schema Therapy in Eating Disorders – Dr Susan Simpson.

Schema Therapy Brochure Download

This is the first Schema Therapy program of its kind in Australia specifically for eating disorders and has the potential to demonstrate to a wider audience the treatment effects Schema Therapy can bring in a group format. Schema Therapy for Eating Disorders in a full day group, comprising of five and a half hours. Participants will attend one day per week, for a period of 21 weeks (with one week ‘off’ from the program midway). This will be a closed group. Morning tea and lunch are provided on site, prepared fresh daily from the Esus Centre kitchen.

Once completed, each participant will be invited to attend a follow-up group, which will comprise 8 half-day sessions over a period of 20 weeks, moving from fortnightly to monthly.

Schema Group Therapy Program FAQs

What does this Schema Group Program offer?

This program seeks to help participants understand themselves on a much deeper level, with greater awareness and compassion. Each participant is guided through their own individual exploration of their early maladaptive schemas and modes, within a group setting where acceptance and understanding is fostered. Participants are given a framework to understand their core emotional needs and will learn a range of strategies to meet those needs as adults, including cognitive, behavioural, experiential techniques.

What are Early Maladaptive Schemas?

Early life experiences and interpersonal connections shape the development of the brain. It is from this that early maladaptive schemas arise, which are comprised of emotions, bodily responses, automatic thoughts and beliefs about oneself and others. This forms a template, where ongoing experiences are processed through a particular lens. Eating disorder symptoms continue to cement the belief held about the self and others.

How long is the program?

Participants attend one day per week for 21 weeks, with a one-week break midway through the program.

How long does each group session last?

Schema therapy sessions last for 5.5 hours, and we provide morning tea and lunch on-site, freshly prepared daily by the Esus Centre kitchen.

Who is suitable for Schema Therapy?

Schema Therapy for Eating Disorders is suitable for anyone experiencing any form of an eating disorder. It is designed to be transdiagnostic and may be especially helpful for those with comorbid diagnoses, have experienced trauma, abuse and/or neglect, or a longstanding history of an eating disorder.

Do I need a GP referral to join this program?

A GP referral is one way you can be referred to the group program. Alternatively, you can self-refer via the website or by emailing referrals@esuscentre.au