Is TCT certification available?

Yes, there is a simple pathway that leads to certification in Transformative Couples Therapy ®. The essential requirement for TCT Certification is the demonstration of competency in TCT as shown in two video recorded sessions. The TCT Experiential Skills Course or Video on Demand offer avenues to learn the TCT method. TCT Core Training typically follows TCT Experiential Skills Course, but this can be waived based on an interview with Dr. Mars.

When participants to receive consultation and group supervision of recorded couples therapy sessions, the fine-tuning of TCT work follows naturally. The process of recording sessions with couples has been made nearly effortless, since these days so many therapists are working via Zoom online.

Are the four states of AEDP part of TCT?

Yes, States One, Two, Three and Four are all part of TCT, however TCT redefines each of the four states in terms of couple dynamics. We also add the Seven Channels of Experience to broaden how the transformative process is facilitated to allow room for more avoidantly attached couple members to bridge to their more emotionally focused partners. There are many differences between TCT and AEDP, but both methods are a highly compatible for therapists as beneficial cross-pollination.

Why is somatically-based, mindful meditative practice a part of TCT?

First, the somatic attunement required to closely track and attune to two people at a time in sessions goes far beyond the skill required to track one individual. Cultivating body-based mindfulness based on the Seven Channels of Experience is essential to accomplish this. Secondly, affect regulation is more challenging in couple work than with a single individual and requires more capacity for the therapist to practice self-grounding and reflection, based on compassionate attunement in order to transfer skills of co-regulation to couple members.