Schema-Focused Therapy (SFT) SFT combines elements of cognitive, Gestalt, and psychodynamic theories. Developed by Jeffrey Young, PhD, a student of Aaron Beck’s, SFT conceptualizes maladaptive behavior arising from schemas. In this model, a schema is defined as a world view developed over time in a biologically vulnerable child who encounters instability, overindulgence, neglect, or abuse. Schemas are the child’s attempts to cope with these failures in parenting.
