CAT and Leadership with David Harvey

This interactive workshop explores how concepts from Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) can inform effective leadership when working with teams and systems supporting individuals with complex needs. Participants are introduced to CAT’s Multiple Self States Model as a framework for understanding the impact of trauma on individuals, teams, and organisations.

Using practical examples and reflective discussion, the session demonstrates how CAT-informed thinking can help leaders make sense of the emotional and organisational challenges that arise in high-risk and complex care environments.

The workshop focuses on translating psychological theory into practical leadership strategies that strengthen team functioning, enhance collaboration, and support informed decision-making.

This workshop has since been successfully delivered in both virtual and face-to-face formats across a range of health and social care organisations. It has consistently received positive feedback for its relevance, practical application, and accessibility.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

•recognise how organisational and team responses to pressure can reflect patterns associated with trauma

•understand how trauma-informed perspectives can explain difficulties such as fragmented working, reduced collaboration and barriers to effective service delivery

•use CAT concepts to formulate challenges within teams and systems and identify leadership approaches that reduce their impact

•develop strategies to improve staff wellbeing, strengthen team resilience, and promote psychologically informed leadership practices

•consider how CAT-informed leadership can contribute to improved outcomes for service users and safer, more coordinated care.

This workshop is designed for professionals, especially leaders, who work within services supporting people with complex presentations, significant vulnerability, or high levels of risk. It is suitable for those who are seeking practical, psychologically informed approaches to leading teams and managing organisational complexity.

Venue: Online, via Zoom (Link facilitated nearer the time)

Start: 09.30am Finish: 4.30pm

All Others £60

Dr David Harvey is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Supervisor, and Trainer with more than two decades of experience working within the NHS and wider healthcare environments. Throughout his career, he has held a range of senior leadership roles in both the UK and internationally, including serving as a Clinical Director. These positions have involved leading complex organisations, managing multidisciplinary teams, and working across organisational and sector boundaries to support the commissioning and delivery of high-quality, effective services.