CC19 Symposium 02 - Introduction to 2 Models - Sue Johnson, EdD; Stan Tatkin, PsyD, LMFT

Description:

Each faculty member will present basic principles for their model to help the audience understand the strengths of the model: EFT and PACT.

The essential features of EFT- a client centered alliance, a focus on emotion regulation and balance, the creation of self and system change, and the key interventions and corrective moments that have been shown to lead to predictable lasting change in love.

PACT was developed out of exciting, cutting-edge research in three areas: developmental neuroscience, biology of human arousal, and attachment theory. PACT focuses strongly on moment-to-moment shifts in the face, body, and voice, and asks partners to pay close attention to these while they interact. The goal is secure functioning.

Educational Objectives:

1. Outline the key features of EFT that have been shown to lead to successful outcome.
2. Describe at least three principles of secure functioning relationship.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*

Outline:

Introduction to EFT and Personal Anecdotes

• Speaker 2 introduces herself at the Milton H. Erickson Foundation’s couples conference.

• Shares a humorous story about a couple mistaking EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) for “tapping” therapy.

• Her son jokes EFT means “Extremely Funny Therapy” and avoids psychology.

• Will present without slides, focusing on EFT’s conversational style.

Influences of Carl Rogers and Salvador Minuchin

• EFT blends Carl Rogers’ emphasis on inner experience with Minuchin’s systemic, feedback-focused work.

• Rogers: Help people order and express inner feelings.

• Minuchin: Observe relationship dynamics and patterns.

• Adds Bowlby’s attachment theory as the emotional backbone.

John Bowlby's Framework and Emotional Isolation

• Bowlby: Attachment is a survival system; love keeps us close and safe.

• Emotional isolation is a major threat to mental health.

• Loneliness is rising and poses a public health concern.

• Therapy should foster bonding and connection.

EFT's Focus on Corrective Emotional Experiences

• EFT changes couples through emotional—not cognitive—experiences.

• Emotional safety and secure attachment are core.

• Attachment science gives a roadmap for working with couples.

• Goal: Help partners feel secure and bonded.

The Role of Emotion in EFT

• EFT works actively with emotion to shift relational dynamics.

• Helps couples stop negative cycles and reconnect.

• Key question in bonding conversations: “Are you there for me?”

The EFT Tango and Systematic Interventions

• EFT is like tango dancing—attuned, improvisational, emotional.

• Requires therapist presence and responsiveness.

• EFT follows a clear, systematic model.

• Training is available through externships and online resources.

The Importance of Safety and Alliance in Therapy

• Therapist must create a safe, emotionally supportive space.

• Focus on co-regulation: partners become each other’s resource.

• New language around dependency is encouraged.

Stan Tatkin's Introduction and Agreement with Sue Johnson

• Stan Tatkin agrees with Sue Johnson and adds his own insights.

• Draws from Virginia Satir and stresses “radical loyalty” in couples.

• Couples need principles to prevent harm in their interactions.

The Concept of Secure Functioning in PACT

• Tatkin’s PACT approach emphasizes “secure functioning” (mutual safety/fairness), not just secure attachment.

• Builds on arousal regulation, interactive regulation, and developmental neuroscience.

• Uses psychodramatic and strategic interventions in sessions.

The Role of Social Justice in Therapy

• Emphasizes fairness, justice, and equality in relationships.

• Micro expressions and body cues offer emotional insight.

• Focus on creating experiences rather than giving interpretations.

The Polytheoretical Approach of PACT

• PACT draws from multiple disciplines: neurobiology, attachment, developmental psychology.

• Studying infant attachment helps inform adult dynamics.

• Reiterates the importance of fairness and co-regulation in therapy.