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Published on: August 2, 2021
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Cognitive analytic therapy-guided self-help for depression: A mixed methods evaluation
Rebecca Kelly1, Stephen Kellett1,2,3, Mel Simmonds-Buckley1,2
1Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust, South Yorkshire, UK.
Psychology and Psychotherapy
|August 19, 2025
Summary
Cognitive Analytic Therapy-guided self-help (CAT-GSH) shows promise for depression treatment. Most patients recovered and maintained gains, finding the intervention acceptable and beneficial.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Mental Health Services
Background:
- Depression is a prevalent mental health condition requiring accessible treatment options.
- Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) is an established psychotherapeutic approach.
- Low-intensity psychological interventions are increasingly important in healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of Cognitive Analytic Therapy-guided self-help (CAT-GSH) for depression.
- To assess the acceptability of CAT-GSH among patients and practitioners.
- To explore the feasibility of delivering CAT-GSH within an NHS talking therapies service.
Main Methods:
- A parallel mixed-methods case series design was employed.
- Eleven patients with depression received CAT-GSH delivered by four psychological well-being practitioners (PWPs).
- Outcomes were measured session-by-session, with follow-up at one month; acceptability was assessed via interviews and service data.
Main Results:
- All 11 patients accepted the intervention, with only one dropout.
- Seven out of ten completers achieved reliable recovery at follow-up, maintaining treatment gains.
- Patients reported improvements in mood and recognition skills, deeming CAT-GSH acceptable.
Conclusions:
- CAT-GSH demonstrates potential as a low-intensity intervention for depression.
- The findings suggest CAT-GSH is acceptable and effective for a majority of patients.
- Further controlled research is recommended to solidify these promising results.
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