PACT 
Psychobiological Approach To Couples Therapy
Founded by Stan Tatkin, PsyD, MFT

The three pillars of PACT.

Interpersonal Neuroscience

Biology of Arousal Regulation

Attachment Science​

Interpersonal ​Neuroscience is the study of the human brain and how we interact with others. Understanding how the brain works provides a basis for appreciating how people act and react to the world around them and within relationships. 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. Understanding our brain as well as our partner’s brain helps us work with and adapt to each other’s strengths and challenges.

This area of study allows us to learn how to help our partners and ourselves keep the "smart part" of our brains online so we can be our best under distress. We can often get stuck in cycles of fighting, withdrawal, and shutdown (fight, flight & freeze). Seeing responses through this lens reveals that our immediate interactions when upset is simply how we are wired and “not personal or intentional”. The "primitive part" of our brains make decisions without our permission and we make mistakes and misappraisals - this is usually what we fight about.

Attachment Science explains the biological need to bond with others. Experiences in early relationships - typically with our parents/caretakers - create a blueprint that informs the sense of safety and security we bring to adult relationships. Insecurities that have been carried through life can wreak havoc if these issues are not resolved. When resolved, safety and security is restored for the individual and the couple. Understanding our attachment style and what that means in your relationship allows us to understand and respond to each other with more care.