For clinicians

CAT map makerDraw the map together

A tool for drawing Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) maps, also called sequential diagrammatic reformulations, with the person in front of you. Save a version each session, reopen the file next time, and give them a picture to keep between sessions.

It runs entirely in your browser: nothing you type or draw is sent to us or stored on this site. You are responsible for the downloaded file. Keep it somewhere secure and in line with your service’s data policy, and use a secure method if you share it.

Dr Marie-Claire Reville with a group of fellow clinicians and professionals

Start a map

Start from a template

A starting layout to fill in and change.

Start with a blank page

Map side by side as the conversation unfolds, building words first and links later.

Open a saved file

Choose last session’s file (its name ends in .catmap.json) to carry on where you left off.

What this is, and what it is not

  • A drawing tool for clinicians who use CAT ideas such as reciprocal roles, procedures and exits. It does not teach Cognitive Analytic Therapy, and it does not replace CAT training or supervision.
  • A map is a working hypothesis made together with the person. It is not a diagnosis, and it is expected to change.
  • Works best on a tablet or computer. It has not been tested on every browser and device, so check it on yours before relying on it in a session, and keep a paper back-up.
  • Accessibility: you can enlarge the text, and the map can be used with a keyboard, including selecting and editing arrows from the Item tab. Screen reader support for the picture itself is limited.

Where the ideas come from

The elements and layouts follow published work, which is well worth reading: