A review of the effectiveness of a brief (8 session) Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) for clients with anger problems

This report represents evaluative data from 12 months of psychotherapeutic intervention using Cognitive Analytic Therapy at Winn Gardens and some reflections on the subsequent development of the project into Burngreave.

The focus of the intervention was primarily managing anger but other psychological problems underlying anger have also been treated.

In total 23 referrals were received and 8 completed case of „evaluation‟ are presented here. Results indicate a significant improvement in general health, psychological health and behaviour change from what is a brief therapy consisting of 8 sessions and a follow up.

The intervention has diverted clients from assaulting behaviour, both to themselves and others, reducing the impact of violence on partners, others, health and social care services and police and court services. It is difficult to quantify this but the associated costs for anger and violence are significant and incalculable.

Up to July 2010 14 referrals were received at Burngreave all of whom were contacted, offered an appointment and/or undertook therapy. Four clients have completed therapy with a number of others taking up a number of sessions. It is anticipated that similar positive therapeutic outcomes to Winn Gardens will be found in the population at Burngreave on completion.