Call for workshops for the next ACAT conference: 28th – 30th June 2026
University of Leeds – Business School
Reformulating Power: A CAT approach to inequality and polarisation
Conference Theme:
"What are the forces in society and constructs in the individual that are leading to increased inequality and increased polarisation? The role of CAT in healing fragmented communities and individuals."
We invite submissions for workshop presentations for the upcoming 30th Annual ACAT Conference, which will explore the complex interplay between societal forces, individual psychological processes, and the growing challenges of inequality and polarisation across communities and cultures.
In recent years, we have witnessed deepening divides - social, political, and economic, that affect not only communities but also the individuals within them. The conference will consider:
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How systemic, cultural, and economic factors contribute to fragmentation and exclusion.
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How personal narratives, psychological processes, and relational patterns mirror and reinforce wider social divisions.
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How Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) with its relational, dialogic, and reformulative approach—can help bridge these divides, fostering understanding, empathy, and reconnection at both personal and collective levels.
We are seeking workshop proposals that:
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Explore theory and practice: presentations that link CAT theory to social or political contexts, or that use CAT concepts (such as reciprocal roles, mapping, or dialogic understanding) to address issues of inequality and division.
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Present research and evidence-based practice: contributions that highlight current research, evaluation, or outcome data relevant to CAT’s application across diverse groups of individuals and settings.
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Share practice-based experiences: examples of CAT work across group, individual or community settings.
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Encourage reflection and participation: interactive workshops that invite participants to think about their own practice, assumptions, and the social forces shaping therapeutic work.
The workshops will take place across days 2 and 3 of the conference and will last between 60-75 minutes.
Submission Guidelines:
If you would be interested in offering a workshop then please email Ali Marfell at alison.marfell@acat.org.uk completing the form below with the details of your proposal. In particular, some things to consider are:
Title of your workshop
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Summary of aims, content, and learning outcomes
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Format and level of participant interaction
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Any technical or space requirements
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Abstract length: up to 300 words
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Submission deadline: 27th March 2026
Selection Criteria:
Abstracts will be reviewed based on clarity, relevance to the conference theme, engagement of participants, and contribution to advancing understanding and practice within CAT.
We warmly invite your contribution.
Sarah Cluley, Raj Dhanjal, Ranil Tan