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Cognitive Analytic Therapy
What is CAT?
Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is a time-limited, relational therapy that integrates ideas from both cognitive and psychoanalytic traditions. It helps individuals understand how patterns formed in early life may be influencing current thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
Core Principles of CAT:
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Our early experiences shape how we relate to ourselves and others.
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These relational patterns can become stuck and self-defeating.
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Making sense of these patterns allows for greater self-awareness and change.
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Therapy is collaborative, with an emphasis on mapping and understanding these patterns together.
What CAT Can Help With:
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Relationship difficulties
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Depression and anxiety
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Personality difficulties
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Trauma and attachment issues
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Repeating life patterns that feel hard to change
How CAT Works:
CAT is a structured, three-phase therapy:
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Reformulation: Together, we explore your history and current difficulties to identify repeating patterns.
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Recognition: Using written tools (like the reformulation letter and maps), we bring these patterns into awareness.
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Revision: We work toward change, developing healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.
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Treatment
What to Expect:
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Time-limited therapy (typically 16–24 sessions)
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A focus on both past experiences and present-day challenges
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Collaborative, structured sessions with a clear narrative
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Written reflections to support insight and growth
Why Choose CAT?
CAT offers a unique, integrative approach for those who want to understand recurring difficulties in relationships, identity, or emotion. It combines depth of insight with practical strategies for change—within a warm, collaborative therapeutic relationship.
Meet The Team
At Dr Stuart Psychologists, all of our psychologists have extensive training to doctoral level and decades of experience in their field of expertise. You will be matched with a psychologist that has the knowledge and skill to help you understand and overcome your problem - not just in the short term but for good.
