Learn Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT)
Structured training pathways — from first curiosity to practitioner-level psychotherapy training.
Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is a relational, integrative psychotherapy approach that helps people understand repeating patterns in relationships, learned initially to stay emotionally or physically safe in early relationships that do not seem to work now and develop new ways of relating.
Our training pathways support clinicians/therapists/counsellors at different stages of experience, from introductory learning through to practitioner training.
About CAT Training Australia
Our flagship practitioner pathway is CAT In Dialogue, developed by Lee Crothers, which brings together CAT theory, reflective practice, and a strong emphasis on collaboration, relationship, and context.
In addition to online learning, bespoke in-person CAT training is offered to services and organisations. This includes one or two-day intensive introductions to CAT for teams (e.g. private practices, mental health teams, schools, protective services), as well as support for services wishing to embed CAT training through a train-the-trainer approach. This model supports services with existing CAT practitioners and supervisors to integrate an ANZACAT-accredited training pathway alongside their own service culture and models of care.
For services seeking a broader relationally-informed reflective practice approach, informed by CAT but not focused on formal CAT training, please visit www.relateandreflect.com.au.
Choose your CAT learning pathway
Whether you are new to CAT or seeking formal practitioner training, you can choose a pathway that fits your experience, interests, and professional goals.
CAT for the Curious
A gentle introduction to Cognitive Analytic Therapy for those who want to understand the model and its relational focus.
This pathway is designed for clinicians, trainees, and professionals who are curious about CAT and want a clear, accessible overview before deciding on further training.
What this includes
- Introductory CAT webinar
- Core ideas of CAT and relational thinking
- Understanding patterns, roles, and reformulation
- Optional in-person bespoke CAT workshops
No prior CAT experience required
CAT Skills Programme (6 months)
Develop practical CAT skills and apply CAT concepts more formally within your existing clinical setting.
This programme is suited to clinicians who want structured training in CAT tools and ways of working, without committing to full practitioner training.
What this includes
- Six-month structured learning programme
- Practical CAT tools and formulations
- Case-based learning and reflection
- Support for applying CAT in your current role
Suitable for practising clinicians
CAT Practitioner Training
A comprehensive psychotherapy training pathway aligned with CAT practitioner requirements.
This two-year course is for clinicians seeking in-depth CAT training, supervised practice, and progression toward practitioner accreditation.
Programme structure
- 100 hours of theory training
- 80 hours of clinical supervision
- Supervised clinical practice
- Written assignments and case work
Designed for those pursuing CAT practitioner pathways
Not sure where to begin?
Many clinicians start with CAT for the Curious to gain an overview of the model before progressing to skills or practitioner training. If you are unsure which pathway best fits your background or goals, we’re happy to help you think it through.
About the training
Our CAT training is grounded in reflective practice, relational thinking, and careful application of theory to clinical work.
Courses are designed to be accessible, rigorous, and clinically relevant, supporting learning at different stages of professional development.
Training is delivered through a combination of online learning, live teaching, and supervised practice, depending on the pathway you choose.
Begin your CAT learning journey
Explore CAT training options and choose the pathway that fits your professional interests and stage of practice.