Cognitive Analytical Therapy

Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is a collaborative, time-limited psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful relational and behavioural patterns that have developed over time—often as a response to early life experiences or relational wounds. These patterns may have once served as survival strategies but can begin to feel limiting, distressing, or destructive in current relationships and everyday life.

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CAT brings together elements of psychodynamic thinking (looking at the impact of the past) and cognitive approaches (understanding present thoughts and behaviours), offering a clear and accessible framework for change. One of CAT’s strengths is its ability to map out repeating cycles—how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world—and how these patterns are often maintained unconsciously.

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Throughout therapy, we build a shared understanding of your story, your patterns, and the roles you may find yourself stuck in. These can also show up in the therapy relationship, which offers a valuable space for reflection and new ways of relating. A key part of CAT is creating written tools together—such as diagrams and reformulation letters—to help you clearly see and interrupt these cycles with greater compassion and choice.

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This approach can be particularly helpful for those navigating identity issues, relational trauma, emotional regulation difficulties, and long-standing patterns of self-criticism or disconnection. CAT offers not just insight, but a pathway towards changing how you relate—to yourself, to others, and to your emotional world.