Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT)
CAT is a very active therapy, inviting the individual to be the observer of their own life and to take part in what needs to change. The changes needed may be small, such as stopping being caught in a trap of avoiding things, or they may be larger, such as finding new ways of relating to people. The first thing that happens with any human encounter is one’s reaction to the other person. Many of our automatic responses to other people stem from patterns of relating in early life. When one realises one has got used to being in this trap one can start to notice and begin to change what one does and learn to find other more useful ways if relating to others. CAT helps change learned attitudes and beliefs and focus on ways to make better choices.
The process of a CAT therapy is to look at patterns of relating, and the effect these patterns are having on relationships, work and the way people are with themselves. Together with the therapist, in the safety of the therapeutic relationship the individual gradually develops an understanding of the ways in which they have learned to cope with what has happened in their lives. Often people who have been through abuse, neglect or trauma feel bad about themselves and this can affect self-confidence. The active part of CAT helps the person to take part in the process of change in their own way.