CAT is a structured, collaborative and time-limited form of psychotherapy that helps you identify and understand patterns in your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and relationships, and how those patterns may have developed over time. It draws on both cognitive and psychoanalytic traditions.
CAT places particular emphasis on the therapeutic relationship as a vehicle for change. Together we map your patterns, understand their origins, and find new ways of relating to yourself and others.
I am a formally accredited CAT Practitioner. CAT is offered in blocks of either 16 or 24 sessions. The number of sessions that is right for you is not fixed in advance — it is decided collaboratively as we go, reviewing progress together and agreeing the best course as equal partners. It is a joint decision made with you, not for you.
Who CAT can help: Relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, eating difficulties, personality difficulties, and anyone who feels stuck in unhelpful patterns.
I have particular expertise in working with trauma, attachment difficulties, and the relational patterns that can arise from early adverse experiences. This includes complex trauma, developmental trauma, and difficulties in close relationships.
I use CAT as a primary framework for trauma work, alongside trauma-informed and attachment-based approaches, drawing on Compassion Focused Therapy where appropriate.
Who this can help: Those who experienced difficult early relationships or adverse childhood experiences; people who find close relationships challenging; those whose past continues to shape how they feel, think or behave in the present.
I work with many people who experience anxiety, and I am experienced in adapting my approach to suit different ways of thinking and processing. Cognitive Analytic Therapy is a naturally relational and collaborative therapy, which many people with neurodivergent profiles find works well for them.
I am able to work flexibly with people who have autism, ADHD or PDA, adjusting the pace, structure and style of sessions to suit your individual needs. I have a background in research in the area of PDA and anxiety, which informs how I think about demand and autonomy within the therapeutic relationship.
If you are not sure whether therapy is right for you or whether my approach would suit you, please do get in touch for a free consultation and we can talk it through.
Who this may suit: People with neurodivergent needs experiencing anxiety or relationship challenges, who have found traditional therapy difficult or inflexible; and/or anyone who wants a therapist who will take the time to understand how they work best.
All sessions are 50 minutes. You can choose online or in person. Sessions are weekly as standard, with fortnightly available where appropriate.
I am currently offering sessions on Fridays only. I may have limited availability on other evenings and weekends upon request - please get in touch to discuss options.
Conducted via Zoom. A secure link is sent before each session. You will need a camera, microphone and a private, uninterrupted space. Sessions are never recorded without your explicit consent.
Available in Durham and the surrounding area. Location details are provided on booking. A comfortable, private and confidential space is provided for all in-person appointments.
That is completely fine. Book a free 15-minute consultation and we can talk through what brings you here and what might help most.
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