About the Course
Discover the foundations of Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) with our on-demand introductory course.
Learn how CAT helps make sense of patterns in relationships and behaviour, combining cognitive and relational approaches for deeper understanding and change.
Perfect for mental health professionals and those curious about integrative therapeutic models. You can study at your own pace and gain valuable insights to enhance your practice.
Who's it for
Perfect for mental health professionals, social care staff, and those working in related fields such as education, community, or justice services, this course introduces the integrative and relational approach of Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT).
You’ll study at your own pace, gaining practical insights into how CAT principles can enhance understanding, collaboration, and change across a range of professional settings.
Whether you’re seeking to strengthen your existing practice, adopt more trauma-informed and reflective ways of working, or broaden your professional toolkit, this accessible and engaging course offers a meaningful way to develop both your skills and confidence.
Delivery format
Available as 12 online, on-demand modules, this course gives you 90 days of access to explore Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) at your own pace.
You’ll also have the opportunity to join our free monthly live Q&A webinar with the course tutors—perfect for asking questions, sharing reflections, and discovering how other professionals are applying CAT principles in their practice.
Duration
Your 90 days of access begins as soon as you complete the sign-up process.
Accreditation
On successful completion, you’ll receive a certificate of completion equivalent to an in-person introductory CAT course, recognised by UK CAT Practitioner Courses, which often require an introductory course as a pre-requisite for further training.
Important disclaimer: This course does not certify you to practice Cognitive Analytic Therapy, nor does it confer any professional qualification or allow you to claim that you are a trained CAT practitioner.
Course content
Module 1: What does CAT Therapy look like?
Gain insight into what happens during a standard CAT therapy session and the tools used to promote understanding and change
Total duration 00:14:30
Module 2: The Theoretical underpinnings of CAT
We will take you on a journey through the ideas and research that informed CAT’s development
Total duration 00:26:40
Module 3: Writing in CAT
Delve into the creative and clinical uses of writing in CAT as we reformulate a compelling character together
Total duration 00:15:30
Module 4: Reciprocal Roles and Mapping
Two of CATs most key features, you will get to see a map being developed in real time
Total duration 00:41:20
Module 5: CATs understanding of 'the Self'
In this module, you’ll learn CAT’s perspective on this concept and how it applies in practice
Total duration 00:09:50
Module 6: Traps, Dilemmas and Snags
Familiarise yourself with key cognitive components from the Psychotherapy File and their application to practice
Total duration 00:10:40
Module 7: The Self States Model
Introduced a little later into the model, it considers how someone with an Emotionally Unstable Personality type could benefit from CAT
Total duration 00:09:20
Module 8: Transference and Counter-transference
Often described as the ‘Push’ and ‘Pull’ experienced in therapy, CAT uses reciprocal roles to help make sense of this phenomenon
Total duration 00:12:40
Module 9: Consultation using CAT
Explore ways CAT can be applied to help teams and organisations work more effectively
Total duration 00:25:30
Module 10: CAT Research and Evidence Base
In this interview, Hayden explores key insights with Dr Stephen Kellett, Consultant Psychologist, CAT Psychotherapist and Researcher
Total duration 00:26:00
Module 11: Your own case example
You’ll be guided in applying a range of CAT tools to the patient you’ve been reflecting on throughout the course
Total duration 00:13:00
Module 12: Endings in CAT
Ignore at your peril; CAT places a big emphasis on attending to the ending. Find out why in the final module
Total duration 00:13:50
Your Tutors
Dawn Bagwell-Cox and Hayden Stothard
Dawn and Hayden are the directors and lead tutors at Learn with CATO. As qualified CAT Psychotherapists, clinical supervisors and trainers, they regularly teach CAT across a range of settings and audiences, sharing their enthusiasm for this integrative and relational approach.
What others had to say about the course
Lisa
Person-centred Therapist
"The content was super accessible, particularly as I do have a learning difficulty. I was able to absorb the information in my own time..."
Anne Carbonnier
Psychiatrist
"It is good to get an understanding of the model and to look at relational patterns everywhere around me."
Romley Carlin
RMN
"I have certainly learned so much and look forward to taking this learning back to my own team and practice."
Avril Ishmael
RMN
"I found the course really engaging and I liked the fact I could do it at my own pace."
Frequently Asked Questions...
Can teams or organisations enrol multiple members?
Yes, group or organisational enrolments are available. Please contact us for bulk access options or invoicing arrangements at invoicing@cato.training
Can I share the materials with colleagues?
Course access is for individual use only. Materials are copyright-protected and should not be copied, shared, or distributed without permission.
How long does the course take to complete?
In total, the 12 modules are around 4 hours in length, but we wouldn't recommend that you watch them all in one go.
For the best experience, we would recommend that you watch 1 or 2 modules a week and use the time in between to reflect on what you have learnt and how it relates to your practice.
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for professionals working in mental health, social care, education, or related fields who are interested in learning about the principles and methods of Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT). It’s also suitable for anyone curious about relational and integrative approaches to psychological work.
How does this course differ from accredited CAT Practitioner training?
This is an introductory-level course designed to build foundational understanding. It does not qualify you as a CAT practitioner but provides an excellent grounding if you wish to pursue accredited training later.
Can I access the course on my phone or tablet?
Yes, the course can be accessed on any device with an internet connection.
How long do I have access to the course?
You’ll have full access to all course materials for 90 days / 3 months from the date of enrolment, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and alternative payment methods, such as PayPal, Google Pay and Apple Pay too.
We also offer the option of paying for some courses in instalments. Click on enrol now to find out more.
What support is available if I have questions while learning?
If you experience technical issues or have general course queries, you can contact our support team at help@cato.training
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes — upon completion of all modules, you’ll receive a digital certificate of completion from Learn with CATO.
Do I need any previous knowledge of CAT or therapy training?
No prior experience of CAT is needed. The course provides a clear and accessible introduction suitable for both newcomers and those wanting to refresh or broaden their understanding.