ABSTRACT
Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is a psychological therapy that focuses on the patterns people form in their relationships, both with others and themselves. CAT is increasingly being used to help individuals struggling with experiences of psychosis. In the first part of this chapter, Alex describes her experiences of CAT. She discusses how CAT helped her to map out and make sense of her difficulties, and how she was supported to try to change some of the difficult patterns in her life. In the second part of the chapter, Claire, a CAT therapist, provides a general introduction to the approach and how it may be used to help people with psychosis. This includes an introduction to the model and language CAT uses to help understand psychological problems, and the specific stages and tools involved in the therapy. The chapter ends with a discussion of the developing evidence that CAT may be helpful for individuals experiencing psychosis, and further considerations for those who may wish to undertake CAT.
