Advice For New(ish) Couple Therapists From PACT Faculty

PACT instructors are extraordinary clinicians and teachers. Each one brings profound insight, expertise in working with couples, and a passion for mentoring other therapists. 

PACT developer Stan Tatkin says, “We are so thrilled to have these phenomenal PACT clinicians team teaching Level 1 next year. Allison, Beth, Eda, and Julie each bring their own unique perspective with wisdom, compassion, and top-notch clinical skills.“

They’re also fun and interesting outside of the classroom or therapy room! Allison enjoys riding a tandem bike with her husband in her new home state of Virginia. When Beth takes off her clinical and teaching hats, you’ll find her biking, hiking, skiing, and riding horses in the mountains of Colorado. Julie is an animal-loving, elite Crossfitter who loves cheering on her kids at their endless activities. Eda splits her time between Istanbul and Lisbon and finds inspiration in the arts and literature. 

Learn why each is excited to teach PACT Level 1 and what advice they have for you if you’re a therapist considering couple therapy or a new couple therapist just starting out.

What excites you about teaching PACT Level 1?

“Becoming a Level 1 Instructor has reignited my joy in the study of the PACT model and sharing it with other brave therapists who are on the same journey. I’m excited to support students in building their secure functioning narrative. This narrative is an essential foundation and the compass in our couple therapy work.” ~ Allison Howe, LMHC, MA, EdM

“I am excited to teach therapists how they can level up their work with couples by adapting the PACT lens of secure functioning. I also look forward to meeting and getting to know the students as well as team teach with the highly skilled and talented PACT co-instructors.” ~ Beth O’Brien, PhD, Licensed Psychologist

“I’m pumped to teach all the PACT fundamentals so therapists gain the utmost confidence in working with couples.” ~ Julie Rappaport, MA, LPC

“I aim to support emerging PACT therapists in developing their ability to remain centered and find joy in the process of working with PACT.” ~ Eda Arduman, MA

What advice would you give to a therapist considering couple therapy or a new couple therapist just starting out?

“Working with couples means we work with a system.  While all your knowledge, skills, and experience are required in the role, couple work is unique and requires specialized training. It’s so helpful to have support as you start out and being part of a learning community like PACT can help. So many therapists refrain from seeing couples, but the work can be both compelling and rewarding if you are well trained. I believe building secure relationships is a key to a better life and a safer world.” ~ Allison Howe, LMHC, MA, EdM

“For a therapist new to working with couples, I’d say to embrace the powerful energy of the couple dynamic. And I believe the safest way to do this is by being neurobiologically informed, like PACT teaches. Also, consider becoming a couple therapist as a lifelong journey that will impact not only your professional life but your personal life as well. Take things slow and enjoy all the benefits that becoming a couple therapist can bring!” ~ Eda Arduman, MA

“I would say that couple therapy is a dynamic process, and it is vital to have a base of knowledge in the theory that you want to use. For me, I'd like attachment to be at the center of couple therapy models because attachment is so central to the way we initiate, sustain, and end relationships as adults. Also, as a couple therapist, you need to continue to build on your knowledge year after year and deepen your understanding of couple dynamics as well as your own clinical skills. I also strongly recommend ongoing case supervision for all clinicians.” ~ Julie Rappaport, MA, LPC

“Be sure that working with couples is rewarding and fun for you. If you are in private practice, consult with a PACT Level 3 or PACT Certified therapist on an ongoing basis for added support. Joining a PACT consultation group also furthers your education and training while helping you build a professional network.” ~ Beth O’Brien, PhD, Licensed Psychologist