ABSTRACT
The time spent in the presence of the therapist is a small proportion of a patient’s life, especially when therapy is time-limited, as is the case in CAT, where 16-24 sessions is the usual duration. The vital work of therapy must be to focus upon fundamental issues, be memorable and of high emotional impact. Recording the specific understandings arrived at by patients and therapists in writing and diagrams, and using written materials to guide reflection and exploration, are important elements of the approach. They support therapists in the provision of intense, reparative, non-collusive relationships. They represent psychological tools through which patients expand their capacity for self-reflection and control.
