Every new year brings new and renewed resolutions and commitments to our work, school, family, and self. We are excited by the thought of what this year can bring. Frequently, we wonder about what new possibilities and opportunities will arise in 2020. As we reflect on our lives, we reflect on our relationships, too. Some people begin the new year...[ read more ]
On average, couples tend to wait around 6 years before they seek out help with their marriages. That's 6 long years of discontent. During that time, problems fester and grow until they feel insurmountable. It doesn't have to be that way. Communication in marriage isn't a hidden secret. With extra effort and help from PACT therapy, you'll find that your...[ read more ]
Couples therapy is a great idea for any couple no matter how strong their relationship is. In fact, counseling has been shown to be around 75% effective overall. However, in order for it to work, you have to take certain steps and be in the right mindset. However, if you're new to therapy, how can you know what steps you need...[ read more ]
As Seen On: PACT Institute In your romantic relationship, paying attention to your partner’s responses and attitudes is especially prudent. Observing impressions and reactions can help you become more in tune with a partner’s likes and dislikes. I refer to this practice as “obtaining your partner’s ‘owner manual.’” For example, if I say the word rollercoaster, most people have a...[ read more ]
Active Listening is a foundational key skill for a successful marriage that both partners should participate in. Active Listening creates a deeper understanding and helps couples empathize more with their partner’s wants and needs. Active Listening doesn't mean remaining silent while your spouse speaks. Marriage is not a one-way street, and neither is communication. Miscommunication occurs when one partner remains...[ read more ]
Looking for the Baby We have all been in situations in which we feel misunderstood by our partner. We might be left scratching our head, wondering why our partner just doesn’t get us. PACT therapists recognize that such misunderstandings or misattunements to nonverbal and verbal cues are similar to what can happen with babies and their primary caretaker(s). We know from attachment theory that if the caretaker is unresponsive, punitive, anxious, or inconsistent, then the...[ read more ]
