28 October 2026
Dear Masterson community,
I am writing to share an important update about the International Masterson Institute (IMI), following a significant change to the Institute’s structure.
As of last month, the IMI alliance with the Turkish Institute (led by Dr. Meral Aydin) has been dissolved due to growing differences in the two institutes’ training ethos. Two faculty members have since resigned, and we understand they have joined the Turkish Institute.
Since then, IMI faculty have become aware of misinformation circulating that IMI is no longer operating. I want to emphasise that this is far from the truth. The International Masterson Institute is functioning very well. It has steadily gained a strong reputation and is currently running its eleventh Three-Year Post Graduate course. We have a solid international team of trainers and supervisors who continue to contribute to the program.
We wish to publicly reaffirm our commitment to preserving and teaching the work of James F. Masterson and to honouring the legacy of the late Dr. Judith Pearson. As the founder of IMI, Dr. Pearson was instrumental in bringing Masterson training to an international audience. We will continue to uphold the rigorous academic standards set by her, and expected of every student undertaking our training, both now and in the years ahead.
Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
William Griffith
Director: International Masterson Institute
3 October 2026
Dear Masterson Community,
As we reflect on the past few months since the passing of our Emeritus Director, Dr. Judith Pearson, and consider the many developments currently underway, I would like to take this opportunity to update you on recent progress and important changes within our community.
I am pleased to announce that we commenced our 11th three-year training course at the beginning of September. I warmly welcome our new students and wish them a transformative learning experience as they grow as therapists in the years ahead. This is an exciting time for the Institute, marked by both growth and new opportunities.
Under the leadership of JP Theron, the South African branch has organized a series of lectures delivered by senior faculty. We are also in the process of reintegrating alumni who have completed the three-year course, and we are currently establishing affiliates in Romania and Turkey.
At the same time, it is with regret that I must share some difficult news. Two of our members, Mrs. Bankston and Dr. Ayden, have decided to pursue different pathways in their professional and academic growth. They have contributed significantly to the development of the Masterson Approach, and we are grateful for their service. It is with sadness that we announce their decision to distance themselves from the IMI in order to pursue new professional directions.
As a result, the IMI has made the difficult decision to terminate all association with the Masterson Institute in Turkey. We wish them all the best as they move forward with new initiatives. Consequently, the IMI will cease approval of any training or titles allocated through the Masterson Institute Turkey.
We have lost two dear friends and colleagues, and we wish them every success in their future endeavors.
Sincerely,
William Griffith
Director: International Masterson Institute