Abstract Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is an integrative model of psychotherapy developed over recent decades by Ryle and subsequently further elaborated by others (Denman 2002; Ryle and Kerr 2002). Although devised as a brief therapy for ‘neurotic’ problems, it has become a mature model of development and psychopathology applicable to an expanding range of conditions. Committed to evidence-based practice, its origins lie partly in process research (Ryle 1980; Bennett and Parry 2003, 2004). Its evidence base is primarily naturalistic although formal outcome studies (notably for borderline personality disorder; BPD) are in progress.