Forthcoming CPD Event

Five Session Cognitive Analytic Consultancy
A one day workshop led by Katie Ackroyd and Stephen Kellett
Event Hashtag: #CATfive24
Date: Thursday 1 February 2024
Time: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm
Venue: St Thomas Centre, Manchester M12 6FZ
Fees: ACAT member :: £125.00
non-ACAT member :: £140.00
[Fee includes lunch & refreshments]
Overview of workshop
This one-day skills-based course is specifically focused on building skills in using the five-session cognitive analytic consultancy (CAC) version of cognitive analytic therapy (CAT).
The five-session CAC approach was developed from the ground up in the CAT community, building on the model originally developed by Angela Carradice. This was done by adapting therapeutic skills to work in a containing and theoretically informed way with clients who may not feel ready for direct therapeutic work. It can also be a way of helping care coordinators and clients agree a focus for their work together.
CAC is different to full CAT one-to-one therapy and uses different emphases, skills, content, competencies and approaches. The evidence base for this approach has grown in line with its increasing adoption and adaptation within a range of service settings.
Aims and learning outcomes
This one-day skills-based course provides an opportunity to reflect on, and enhance, skills in working in the five-session manner with care coordinators and clients. Participants can consider and try out ways of working flexibly within the structure of the overall approach.
The facilitators will share the CAC relationship file (both service user and care coordinator versions) which were bespoke designed for this consultancy version of CAT. These are replacements for the old psychotherapy file, and better capture the dynamics of the care dyad that are the focal point of the intervention.
Steve and Katie will also introduce participants to video material they produced for the first run of this event in March 2023, which follows a CAC through each of the five sessions. The videos illustrate each of the composite components and main aspects of the approach, providing material for group reflection and discussion.
There will be a chance to observe and practice developing ‘here and now’ reformulations to inform case management; additionally exploring ways of developing exits with the care-co-ordinator and the client.
In summary, the day provides:
- An introduction to the five session CAC approach and its key skills
- An awareness of the evidence base for five session CAC
- The chance to use some new CAC tools in terms of the care coordinator and service user versions of the Relationship File.
- Observation of the use of CAC skills through newly developed video material
- Opportunity to practise the main skills using small group work and role play
- A space for participants to discuss their own work using this approach, and
- An opportunity to learn from other participants; to contrast and compare with others’ work in this approach
Who is it for?
This CPD workshop is designed for those who provide five session cognitive analytic consultancy (CAC) currently, or are interested in potentially developing their role in this manner. It is for clinicians seeking a space to further develop or kindle their CAC skills. The day is open to both trainee and qualified CAT therapists, and other therapists with good knowledge of CAT.
Please note that this day does not cover CAT theory in any great detail. So, to make the most of this opportunity, participants need a ‘good enough’ working knowledge of CAT. Being able to practice the skills and bring examples of current ongoing CAC work allows the training to be directly applicable to practice, bringing this valuable organisational approach to life.
Please note: This workshop is not designed to qualify participants to practice cognitive analytic therapy or CAT formulation. Attendance is NOT a CAT qualification. Instead, the workshop aims to provide knowledge and skills to enhance the existing skills of therapists within their existing scope of practice. Further training and support via supervision or personal therapy is always recommended when integrating new approaches into one’s existing work.
Some feedback from the first run of this event (March 23)
“I appreciated the facilitators’ flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of the audience; a good example of adult to adult teaching relationship. It was great to hear up to date ways of applying the model from people actively involved in its delivery and development.”
“I found the videos and group discussion most helpful. I also really benefitted from the facilitators’ knowledge and expertise. I will definitely use the skills I took from the day moving forward in my clinical practice.”
Facilitators
Dr Katie Ackroyd is a consultant clinical psychologist working in the NHS. She is a CAT practitioner and supervisor and regularly practices CAC in community services. She teaches CAC on various courses and has helped to develop the CAC evidence base.
Dr Stephen Kellett is a consultant clinical psychologist, CAT psychotherapist and supervisor. He has led many research initiatives in the CAT field, and was a past core trainer for Catalyse practitioner training. He currently works in the NHS in acute care. Stephen also teaches CAC on various courses and has helped to develop the CAC evidence base.
You can read a publication on five-session CAC, co-authored by Katie and Stephen, at this link.
Location
St Thomas Centre, Ardwick Green North, Manchester M12 6FZ
Group Size
Places are limited to a maximum of thirty participants.
Booking Information
We advise early booking to secure your place. Once fully subscribed a further waiting list will be in place.
For online booking, follow the link below. When you pay online, you will automatically receive a receipt. You can also request a receipt from the Catalyse administrator.
If you require invoicing, there is an additional charge of £15.00. Please contact the administrator to inform us that you intend to book. You may download the booking form by scrolling to the end of this page.
Terms and Conditions
Before proceeding to book and pay for this event, please ensure you read and understand our terms and conditions.