Neutral dyadic formulation
The card should represent both partners equally and locate the pattern in the interactional cycle rather than assigning fault.
Mode Clash Card for schema couples therapy
Mode Clash Card / Mode Clash Cards is a schema couples therapy formulation tool for practitioners working with recurring couple conflicts. It helps the practitioner and partners map each partner's triggers, modes or schemas, coping responses, unmet needs, the reciprocal clash cycle, and alternative responses that could interrupt the pattern.
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Tool guide
Learn more about this tool
Use this background section to understand when the tool fits, how practitioners use it, and what to consider before sharing it with clients.
Disagreement and uncertainty
If partners disagree about the sequence, the tool can hold multiple versions or uncertainty notes.
History of cards
Updated cards can be reviewed over time as formulations, not as standardized outcome measurements.
Does the Mode Clash Card decide who is at fault?
No. It maps the reciprocal cycle and avoids partner fault assignments.
Can one partner's side be incomplete?
Yes. The card can mark a side as unresolved or practitioner/client-reported rather than confirmed.
Can partners use the card together?
Yes. Partners can contribute in session under practitioner facilitation and view the shared formulation when the practitioner shares it.
Is this a generic conflict log?
No. It is a schema couples therapy dyadic mode-cycle formulation tool.