Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is a therapeutic modality developed by Anthony Ryle. The main features of the therapy are that it is active, integrated and focused. It combines both Cognitive and Analytic methods of working. 

The focus of CAT is on discovering how the client's problems have evolved and how the procedures devised to cope with them may be ineffective. These problems are understood in the light of client's personal histories and life experiences. Emphasis is placed on the client’s experiences of early relationships and how these experiences have gone on to shape subsequent relationships. 

By gaining an understanding of how difficulties may be made worse by habitual coping mechanisms and by mobilising the clients' own strengths and resources, coping procedures may be revised, adapted and improved, thus bringing about change for the client. 

In CAT there is a strong emphasis on developing a collaborative working relationship between client and therapist. This relationship is utilized in the therapy as a way of helping clients understand the difficulties they face in their everyday relationships, and as an opportunity to explore new and more helpful ways of relating. 

If you would like to discuss whether you think CAT may be of benefit to you then do not hesitate to contact our office to discuss things further.