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Cognitive analytic therapy for self-harm with young people: protocol for the RELATE-YP feasibility randomized
Peter Taylor1, Isabel Adeyemi2, Martin Eden3
1Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK. peter.taylor-2@manchester.ac.uk.
Pilot and Feasibility Studies
|July 15, 2026
Summary
This study assesses the feasibility of brief Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) for young people experiencing self-harm. Further research is needed to confirm if CAT is an effective treatment for this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Adolescent Mental Health
- Psychotherapy Research
Background:
- Self-harm is a growing concern among adolescents.
- Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) aligns with understanding self-harm.
- Evaluating brief CAT for self-harming youth is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the feasibility and acceptability of a brief CAT intervention for adolescents (13-17) who self-harm.
- To inform the design of a larger, definitive randomized controlled trial (RCT).
- To assess the potential of CAT in addressing adolescent self-harm.
Main Methods:
- A feasibility randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 60 young people experiencing self-harm.
- Participants allocated to brief CAT plus treatment as usual (TAU) or TAU alone.
- Assessments at baseline and 8, 16, 20 weeks; blinded assessors; qualitative process evaluation.
Main Results:
- Feasibility will be determined by recruitment, retention, adherence, and missing data rates.
- A qualitative evaluation will explore participant and therapist experiences.
- Primary outcome is feasibility against pre-defined criteria.
Conclusions:
- Brief CAT shows potential for helping young people with self-harm.
- Feasibility uncertainties must be addressed before a definitive RCT.
- This trial will guide future research on CAT efficacy for adolescent self-harm.
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