Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns Step by Step

A clinically grounded five-step plan to transform unwanted emotional and behavioural patterns Recurring negative thoughts and emotional reactions can feel overwhelming and impossible to change, yet understanding the patterns behind them is the first step toward lasting transformation. Breaking Negative Thinking Patterns Step by Step: A systematic plan to change unwanted feelings, thoughts and behaviour presents a clear, evidence-based framework rooted in schema therapy to help readers identify the recurring emotional and behavioural patterns-known as "modes"-that drive unwanted feelings and systematically reshape them through a structured five-step process. Written by Hannie van Genderen, a clinical psychologist with over three decades of research and practice in schema therapy, the book guides readers through each stage of the change process using relatable case stories, structured exercises, and practical worksheets. It integrates the latest insights from schema therapy and psychological research, offering concrete strategies to strengthen healthy emotional patterns, build balanced thinking, maintain progress, and prevent relapse through ongoing self-reflection. Designed for anyone seeking to understand and manage persistent negative feelings, thoughts, and behaviours, this book can be used independently or alongside a therapist. It is also a resource for mental health professionals using schema therapy, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate students in clinical psychology, counselling, and psychotherapy.