Chairwork in cognitive behavioral therapy and schema therapy : Options in practice

Abstract

Chairwork is a creative and emotionally charged technique that enhances therapeutic progress. It is based on the assumption that if individuals become aware and express their inner beliefs or conflicts, it would help them understand and choose solutions more freely than if they act unaware and automatically. When used within the conceptualization of the client's problems, it can liberate clients' intense emotional pain and change their maladaptive cognitions. This article shares the clinical experience using the chair techniques by describing and illustrating typical examples of chairwork in cognitive behavioural and schema therapy. Additional recommendations on how to do chairwork and consider the pace, tone of voice, or location of the chairs are also provided.