The PACT Institute

Year Founded: 2003

Model of Therapy: Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy

The Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy® is a cohesive approach derived from research in three areas: developmental neuroscience, attachment theory, and arousal regulation. Neuroscience provides a physiological basis from which to understand individuals’ behavior within a relationship. Attachment theory explains the biological need to bond with others. Experiences in early relationships create a blueprint that informs the sense of safety and security adult partners bring to relationships. Understanding the biology of human arousal allows therapists to facilitate partners’ immediate and continuous ability to manage energy, alertness, and readiness to engage. PACT has a reputation for effectively treating the most challenging couples.

The PACT Institute offers a training program that extends over three years and includes three progressive levels. Level I is a beginner course taught by the PACT core faculty. Level II is an advanced course and Level III is a practicum course, and these levels are taught by Dr. Tatkin. These courses are offered at various locations in the United States and some levels are also available internationally.

Three Level I sessions and two Level II sessions take place over the course of three days and feature a combination of instructional methods. These methods include didactic instruction, multimedia presentations, group discussions, experiential exercises, clinical video presentations, case consultations, and live case enactments. Trainings enhance knowledge about all aspects of PACT, including assessment of and interventions for attachment, arousal regulation, and neurological capacity. Included with the courses are a manual, online forums, downloadable articles, webinars, and online quizzes.

The Level III course is a certification course exclusively offered to students who have completed Level II. In this final course, students will attend two 3-day sessions with Dr. Tatkin in addition to performing ongoing PACT work with patients in their own clinical practice. Upon successful completion of Level III, students will have the opportunity to take the certification assessment.