Tikkun Learning Center

Year Founded: 2011

Model of Therapy: Encounter-centered Couples Therapy

Available training types: In-Person Training Programs, Video box set

Encounter-centered Couples Therapy (EcCT) is an integrative relational model at the intersection of philosophy, clinical theory, organizational methodology and relational neurobiology. It aims at assisting couples to experience the most alive and joyful connection with each other while helping each other grow and develop their relational intelligence on the path to relational maturity. It inspires couples to become not just a good couple or a solid couple but a creative couple.

EcCT is an extremely effective method with proven success in teaching couples how to re-create the magic of connection in their relationship. This model is an integrative approach inspired by the philosophy of Martin Buber, as well as a variety of relational methodologies including Imago Relationship Therapy, Appreciative Inquiry, Re-evaluation Counseling, and Relational Neurobiology. EcCT begins with learning about and understanding the groundbreaking and pragmatic principle of the three invisible connectors: "the Space, the Bridge, and the Encounter."

While being trained in EcCT, the therapist will learn some significant distinctions:

• the distinction between the Relational Paradigm and the Individual Paradigm
• the distinction between the therapist "as expert” vs. the couple’s “relational space" as expert
• the distinction between the therapist’s own “survival dance” vs. an authentic, coherent stance
• the distinction between a focus on Content (Words and Themes) vs. a focus on Process (Energy and Space)
• the distinction between the dialogical domain of communication, vs. the realm of the “encounter” and communion
• the distinction between the couple having insights vs. mobilizing them to “live” the transformation.

In learning EcCT the therapist acquires the expertise to become a guide/mentor/witness to the couple and teaches the couple some significant distinctions:

• the distinction between “Coping” in isolation vs. “Living” in connection
• the distinction between the unconscious, reactive “Survival Dance” vs. the intentional embrace of the “Encounter”
• the distinction between conflict as an obstacle vs. conflict as a launching pad for growth
• the distinction between being an “accidental tourist” vs. an invited, welcomed “guest” in the world of one’s partner
• the distinction between romance vs. intimacy as in "into-me-see"
• the distinction between a relationship as a problem to be solved vs. an adventure to be “lived”.