Information

Training in Cognitive Analytic Therapy

The Association for Cognitive Analytic Therapy aims to offer a variety of trainings that are flexible and responsive to the needs of trainees and to the resources of training groups. There are four routes to training in CAT theory and practice:

Introductory Courses: These comprise either short, introductory workshops usually of one or two days in length or longer, six month to one year introductions. While certificates of attendance may be given, the courses are not assessed and do not lead to a qualification.
Practitioner Training: Practitioner training enables core professionals with competence in their own field to enhance their understanding and skills in psychotherapy by learning the theory and methods of CAT. These courses usually last two years and are assessed, leading to accreditation as a CAT Practitioner and eligibility for membership of ACAT. The courses are held at a number of venues across the country. Some of these training are linked with universities and offer Diploma or credits towards MSc qualifications and may have additional academic requirements.
Psychotherapy Training: Psychotherapy training enables CAT Practitioners to become Cognitive Analytic psychotherapists via an additional two-year assessed course, which leads to eligibility for registration with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy. There is currently one Psychotherapy Training within ACAT, which is a two-year residential training, known as the Interregional Residential ACAT Psychotherapy Training (IRRAPT). Applicants to the Psychotherapy Training must have completed a two-year CAT Practitioner training.
Accreditation of Prior Learning: In certain exceptional circumstances ACAT may recognise an individual's past training and experience as equivalent its current standards. Guidelines exist outlining application procedures for this route.