Are you interested in how cognitive analytic therapists connect in a particular geographical area, or application of practice? In the Resources section of this site we list local CAT groups and networks across the UK and devolved nations. Some are open only to ACAT members. Others are open more widely to other professionals interested in cognitive analytic therapy or working in CAT-informed ways. Have a look for networks in your local area in the link below:
We also list twelve Special Interest Groups, with details of how to contact or join them. Again, some welcome professionals who are not yet qualified or training as CAT therapists, while others are just for members. You can check out the range of SIGs by clicking through to the listing below:
Amongst the various SIG activities in January 2026 are online meetings for the following groups:-
- WildCAT and Nature Based Practice SIG - 12th
- Intellectual Disability & Neurodiversity SIG (Neurodiversity meeting) - 13th
- YouthCAT SIG - 13th, and
- CAT Couples SIG 26th
On the 21st of January there is also an online gathering of members with the aim of re-starting the PhysCAT SIG, for all those working in physical health settings and wanting to use ideas from CAT.
The PhysCAT SIG was first set up in 2011. It initially organised whole day events offering a quick introduction to CAT. The introductions would be followed by a number of presentations on ways CAT was being applied for physical health issues. Organiser Alison Jenaway recalls: "this felt like a good way to get people interested in learning more about CAT and maybe doing some training".
She notes: "CAT adds something extra in physical heath settings as we are so good at finding words/language for the non-logical, emotional reactions and feelings in clients presenting with medically unexplained symptoms or those struggling to manage chronic illnesses. This can also be useful to carers and staff teams. Also, CAT is really good at helping teams understand why people struggle to look after their own conditions. It helps make sense of how teams can end up feeling split and get into conflicts around how best to help."
While many CAT therapists continued to work in physical health settings, the SIG itself became less active during Alison's tenure as ACAT chair. There was less space for the group as a whole throughout the COVID 19 pandemic. Over this time, however, the psychological and relational impacts of physical health issues became only too apparent. Now retired and no longer working in the physical health field, Alison still receives enquiries from CAT therapists who are moving into it. The PhysCAT workforce is clearly growing.
She hopes that the meeting on 21st January will bring together members who are enthusiastic or interested in this area and that the PhysCAT SIG can re-form more actively in 2026. New organiser(s) can lead and develop its activities going forward. A more cohesive network of contacts can help welcome and support other CATs as they move into physical health roles. The group could also co-ordinate a bank of papers and other helpful resources. You can already see some key references in a feature on CAT for Physical Health Problems co-authored by Alison along with Susie Black, Glenys Parry and Cressida Darwin.
Online meetings help get around geographical obstacles for SIGs. Many of the groups ACAT supports now meet this way. Some maintain face-to-face meetings periodically, or help to plan and deliver more extended events in their special area of focus.
Would your SIG or local CAT network like to share more about your activities through a news item? If so, please do get in touch.