35 Years of Schema Therapy: A Global Celebration with Jeffrey Young

Our Purpose and Mission

Introducing the Jeffrey Young Schema Therapy Association

We are proud to introduce a new professional association dedicated to advancing the evidence-based model of Schema Therapy developed by Jeffrey Young: the Jeffrey Young Schema Therapy Association (JYSTA).

Founded in the United States and open to global membership, this association was created to:

• Increase awareness and visibility of Schema Therapy across the Americas
• Support clinicians, researchers, and educators who are advancing the model
• Preserve the integrity of Jeffrey Young’s original, evidence-based framework
• Create a central platform for connection, training, and collaboration

With Jeffrey Young’s full support, this association exists alongside the International Society for Schema Therapy (ISST), much like regional Schema Therapy associations in other parts of the world. Members of JYSTA may also remain members of ISST and retain certification for their training programs and supervisor-trainer roles.

JYSTA is designed to serve both experienced Schema Therapists and those new to the model. We will offer multiple levels of membership, including for students and supporters. More details about membership options, criteria, and dues will be available on our website soon.

Celebrating 35 Years of Schema Therapy

To mark the founding of the association, we will host our inaugural event:

Changing Lives: Celebrating 35 Years of Schema Therapy

Live Online Symposium – December 4–5, 2025

This two-day live event will feature Jeffrey Young and 26 internationally recognized experts in Schema Therapy. Speakers will share clinical insights, reflections, and emerging developments from their respective areas of expertise. The event will conclude with the formal introduction of JYSTA to the public. This symposium echoes the tradition of the ISST’s founding, which was announced at the 2008 conference in Coimbra, Portugal.

The symposium will be held online to maximize access and reduce costs. An attendance fee will cover the production expenses. Reduced rates will be available for students and participants from emerging countries.

Event production is managed by Sara Cavero and Brendan Keegans of BK Event Production.

Leadership and Next Steps

The initial Executive Committee was drawn from the Steering Committee organizing the symposium and includes professionals who have contributed to building the association. Wendy Behary has accepted the role of President for the inaugural term. After two years, open elections will be held for all full members.

The Executive Committee reflects a diversity of clinical, academic, and training experience. With a shared commitment to advancing the reach and quality of Schema Therapy, this team will support the growth of a strong, connected international community.

In the coming years, we plan to offer in-person events across the United States and Canada, while also supporting the continued development of Schema Therapy in South America. Many of us have spent decades helping develop Schema Therapy around the world. It is time to invest that same energy into expanding the model in the regions where it first began.

Moving Forward

Our website will soon include:

• A membership registration portal
• Details about the December symposium
• Updates on future events and opportunities to get involved

We invite you to be part of this next chapter in the development of Schema Therapy. Your support, input, and participation are essential as we continue this work.