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Cognitive-Analytic Therapy for ADHD

Cognitive-Analytic Therapy (CAT) offers a unique approach to understanding ADHD by exploring the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. This method empowers individuals to identify patterns and develop effective strategies for managing their condition.

Finding a Therapy That Finally Understands

Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) for ADHD

“Why did I always fail at therapy?” This is a sentiment we hear often from individuals with ADHD, and it highlights a crucial point: traditional therapy approaches may not always address the core experiences of living with ADHD. While therapy itself can’t change the fundamental neurological differences of ADHD, it can profoundly impact the secondary emotional and relational challenges that often arise.

At The ADHD Specialists, we understand the deep-seated shame, low self-esteem, anger, and the intense pain of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria that can accompany an ADHD diagnosis. The post-diagnosis period can bring a wave of complex emotions – anger at past misunderstandings, sadness for missed opportunities, regret for struggles, and shame for feeling “different.”

This is where Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT), specifically tailored for the ADHD experience, can make a significant difference. We believe CAT offers a unique framework to help you:

Heal Emotional Wounds

By understanding the impact of ADHD on your sense of self and identity, we can work through the difficult emotions that may have accumulated over time.

Develop Self-Compassion

Learn to treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer others, especially in the face of perceived "failures."

Manage Rejection Sensitivity

Develop strategies to navigate and cope with the intense emotional responses often triggered by perceived criticism or rejection.

Address Anger and Frustration

Explore the roots of anger and develop healthier ways to express and manage these powerful emotions.

The CAT Approach

Therapy That Works With Your ADHD Brain

We understand the challenges of traditional therapy, including the often-dreaded “homework.” With our ADHD-informed CAT approach, you can expect:

No Homework, Real-Time Work

We recognise that executive function challenges can make homework feel like another hurdle. All the therapeutic work happens collaboratively within the session itself.

An Eight-Session Focused Model

Developed by our founder, this targeted CAT model for ADHD aims for impactful change within a structured timeframe (currently undergoing research for PhD validation).

Right Brain to Right Brain Connection

CAT uniquely facilitates a relational and compassionate environment where your therapist engages with your emotional experience on a deep level, fostering understanding and connection.

Visual Mapping for Clarity

CAT utilises a powerful visual tool called a Sequential Diagrammatic Reformulation (SDR), or "map," to help you understand the patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that keep you stuck. Together, we'll identify ways to break these patterns and create new pathways.

A Collaborative "Doing With" Approach

Our therapists are not there to "do therapy to you." Instead, we build a genuine therapeutic relationship where we work with you, using the tools of CAT to empower you to make the changes you've always desired.

Grounded in Expertise and Respect

Cognitive Analytic Therapy is a well-respected and evidence-based psychotherapy model, widely used within the NHS. All CAT therapists have a foundation as mental health professionals before specialising in this approach. Our experience shows that CAT’s relational and visual nature resonates deeply with the ADHD brain, making it a powerful tool for lasting positive change.

If you’re ready for a therapeutic experience that truly understands and works with the unique wiring of your ADHD brain, we invite you to explore how CAT at ‘The ADHD Specialists’, can help you finally make the changes you’ve been longing for.

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We invite you to get in touch, share ideas and see if we can make progress together.

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