Safety and security, and the mindful presence of both partners, is key to achieving healthy relational dynamics
PACT is a Comprehensive Approach to Couples
I chose PACT because it is congruent with the fundamentals of trauma therapy, somatic psychology and mindfulness. Safety and security, and the presence of mind for both partners is key.I’m a level 2 trained PACT therapist.
PACT is Grounded in Contemporary Neuroscience
Contemporary neuroscience highlights the physiological functioning of the brain as the biological underpinning of couple dynamics. Most couple’s challenges and patterns are based in adaptive survival strategies that are in large part due to their nervous systems’ reactions to perceived threat.
PACT Primary Task Focuses on Protecting Couple Safety
The brain’s default mode has a negative bias and is constantly engaged in assessing danger to predict safety. PACT emphasizes the positive elements of safety and security rather than the deficits and hurts of the past.
PACT Understands Reactivity Through Attachment Theory
If one partner tends to cling under stress and the other tends to withdraw, their most natural reactions will be perceived by the other as threatening. Each partner’s early relational hurts can be repaired within the relationship when these attachment dynamics are understood.
Contact me about Couple Therapy
VIDEO: Stan Tatkin, PsyD, the creator of PACT therapy and the founder of the PACT Institute
PACT Therapy is Distinctive
PACT therapy may appear different from other types of couples therapy. For example:
- PACT therapists focus on moment-to-moment shifts in your face, body, and voice, and ask you to pay close attention to these as a couple.
- PACT therapists will create experiences similar to those troubling your relationship and help you work through them in real time during the session.
- PACT therapists tend to get faster results than other forms of couples therapy.
- PACT sessions often last as long as 3–6 hours. Longer times allow for in-depth work.
- PACT therapists often video record sessions to provide immediate feedback to you.
