Cognitive Analytic Therapy focuses on how roles and behaviors that were initially (in childhood and adolescence) adaptive or less harmful to the individual were adopted and perpetuated, but later (in adulthood) became ineffective and dysfunctional, resulting in significant distress and various physical and psychological symptoms for which the individual seeks help.

In its clinical application, alongside the creation of its "tools," written and diagrammatic reformulation, particular emphasis is placed on the therapeutic relationship as a critical factor in achieving change.

This book is designed as a guide for the practical application of CAT, without implying that it does not address the theoretical principles governing psychotherapy in general and CAT more specifically. It includes the presentation of a large number of clinical cases and attempts to elucidate the technical details of the model through them.

The author's intention is to present CAT in as clear and understandable a manner as possible, so that the reader can form a comprehensive view of its usefulness in clinical practice.