Therapeutic Approaches

PACT, developed by Dr. Stan Tatkin, is a therapy approach that combines attachment theory, developmental neuroscience, and arousal regulation. It has a reputation for being effective in treating even the most challenging couples.

​

The main goal of PACT is to reach secure functioning dynamics in relationships by helping partners become experts on each other.

During PACT sessions, therapists focus on moment-to-moment shifts in partners' facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. They encourage couples to pay close attention to these cues.

​

In PACT therapy, therapists may create experiences similar to those that have troubled the couple's relationship and help them work through these experiences in real-time during the session.

​

PACT sessions typically run for 90 minutes to 2 hours, allowing for the in-depth work that is required.​

If you have noticed a pattern of unhealthy and emotionally challenging behaviours in your romantic relationships, even with different partners, attachment-based therapy could be a beneficial starting point.

​

Attachment theory centers around the emotional bonds we form with others. The theory, pioneered by British psychiatrist John Bowlby and American psychologist Mary Ainsworth, suggests that the quality of our early relationships often affects our connections with others later in life.

The main attachment styles are:

• Anxious Attachment Style

• Secure Attachment Style

• Avoidant Attachment Style

• Disorganized Attachment Style

 

​

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a treatment approach that helps you recognize negative or unhelpful thoughts and behaviour patterns. CBT is most effective when it is practiced consistently outside of sessions and often involves assignments between sessions such as journalling, practicing skills and more.

​

CBT has been proven effective in treating many mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, self-esteem issues and many other challenges that impact day-to-day living. 

Narrative therapy is a therapeutic approach that centers around the individual's unique stories, values, and meaning-making. It emphasizes how the stories we tell ourselves and hear from others impact our lives. Narrative therapy is built upon three core principles: non-blaming, respect, and recognizing that individuals are the experts of their own lives.
 

The use of language is a vital component of Narrative therapy. It employs externalizing language and avoids totalizing language that might stigmatize individuals. This approach acknowledges that problems are separate from a person's identity, making it easier to work on them.
 

Narrative therapy explores an individual's stories, specifically the dominant narratives that may be problematic and obstruct them from achieving their desired outcomes. Through exploring alternative storylines, a person can make room for positive changes in their thoughts, behaviours, and self-identity.

Narrative therapy is effective for children, adolescents, adults, and couples.

Somatic Experiencing (SE™) is a therapeutic approach that incorporates body-oriented techniques to treat trauma and stress disorders across various professions such as psychotherapy, medicine, coaching, teaching, and physical therapy. 

 

Somatic Experiencing enables individuals to access and process their experiences and narratives through their bodies rather than solely relying on verbal communication. Therapists use gentle guidance to help clients increase their tolerance for challenging bodily sensations and suppressed emotions.

The Gottman Method is a couples therapy that was created by Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman. Its interventions are based on research and centred around the Sound Relationship House theory, which outlines nine components of a healthy relationship.

​

The objective of the Gottman Method is to de-escalate conflicting communication, promote intimacy, respect, and affection, overcome obstacles that create stagnation, and cultivate a greater sense of empathy and understanding within the relationship.