What is PACT?
Developed by Dr. Stan Tatkin, PACT is a fusion of attachment theory, developmental neuroscience, and arousal regulation. PACT has a reputation for effectively treating the most challenging couples.
PACT was developed out of cutting-edge research in three areas:
Neuroscience
The study of the human brain. Understanding how the brain works provides a physiological basis for understanding how people act and react within relationships. In a nutshell, some areas of your brain are wired to reduce threat and danger and seek security, while others are geared to establish mutuality and loving connection.
Attachment Theory
The explanation for the biological need to bond with others. Experiences in early relationships create a blueprint that informs the sense of safety and security you bring to adult relationships. Insecurities that have been carried through life can wreak havoc for a couple if these issues are not resolved.
Biology of Human Arousal
The moment-to-moment ability to manage one’s energy, alertness, and readiness to engage.
How is PACT different from other models of couple therapy?
The PACT model stands out from most other forms of couple therapy with these key features:
- Using the PACT approach, both the therapist and the couple focus on moment-to-moment shifts in the face, body, and voice. Therapists help partners learn to be more attuned and respond to these subtle shifts in each other.
- During a PACT session, the therapist creates experiences similar to those troubling a coupleā€™s relationship, and they help partners work through issues in real time.
- PACT tends to require fewer sessions than do other forms of couple therapy.
- PACT sessions often exceed 50 minutes and may last as long as 3ā€“6 hours. Longer sessions allow for PACT therapists to work more deeply with couples.
- PACT therapists may videotape sessions to provide immediate feedback to couples and to help couples pay close attention to their partnerā€™s nuanced behaviors as well as their own.Ā
