The aim of this study is to emphasize some theoretical aspects of the schema concept and its importance in the personal and social functioning of an individual. The concept of schema has quite a long history both in social psychology and in psychotherapy. The most complete account concerning the definition, typology and importance of this concept is given by the social psychology theories. The most pragmatic and functional approach of the concept is found in the psychotherapy techniques. One of the most recent, well balanced and integrated of this approaches is Jeff Young’s (2003) schema focused cognitive therapy. The 18 main dysfunctional schemas and the five domains are presented together with a short note to their possible cause or origin. The innovative contribution and novelty of this approach compared to other cognitive therapies is also discussed