Imago Therapists in Kensington, MD

Photo of Richard (Pinny) Roth @ Eft Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Richard (Pinny) Roth @ Eft Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
I CAN HELP YOU HEAL YOUR RELATIONSHIP. PREMARITAL AND COUPLES COUNSELING. "Why does my partner overreact?" "Why do I get so triggered?" "How come the punishment doesn't fit the crime?" “Why can’t he be more supportive?” “Is anything I do ever enough for her?” While you are feeling hurt, you have an added layer of confusion. You simultaneously love your partner and even hope to stay in this relationship to keep your love, family, and dreams intact. You are torn in a tug-of-war of emotions and desire to feel understood, accepted, and embraced by your partner.
I CAN HELP YOU HEAL YOUR RELATIONSHIP. PREMARITAL AND COUPLES COUNSELING. "Why does my partner overreact?" "Why do I get so triggered?" "How come the punishment doesn't fit the crime?" “Why can’t he be more supportive?” “Is anything I do ever enough for her?” While you are feeling hurt, you have an added layer of confusion. You simultaneously love your partner and even hope to stay in this relationship to keep your love, family, and dreams intact. You are torn in a tug-of-war of emotions and desire to feel understood, accepted, and embraced by your partner.
(301) 690-9503 View (301) 690-9503

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marissa Josiah, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kensington, MD
Marissa Josiah
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, LPC, CCT, CCISM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Marissa Josiah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience serving couples and families. She has studied researched-backed models in the couples therapy field (EFT, Relational Therapy, Gottman, Imago, etc) and has advanced experience treating trauma. Marissa specializes in helping couples who are fighting all the time, have experienced infidelity, past or on-going trauma, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other. Office locations in Columbia, MD and also offering virtual visits for MD, DC & VA. Please call for a free 10 minute consultation.
Marissa Josiah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience serving couples and families. She has studied researched-backed models in the couples therapy field (EFT, Relational Therapy, Gottman, Imago, etc) and has advanced experience treating trauma. Marissa specializes in helping couples who are fighting all the time, have experienced infidelity, past or on-going trauma, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other. Office locations in Columbia, MD and also offering virtual visits for MD, DC & VA. Please call for a free 10 minute consultation.
(301) 638-8129 View (301) 638-8129
Photo of Gail Guttman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Gail Guttman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
I am a Certified Imago Relationship & Singles Therapist, Community Educator, and Consultant, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor (by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists).
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship & Singles Therapist, Community Educator, and Consultant, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor (by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists).
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
(301) 304-4781 View (301) 304-4781
Photo of Vernon Byrd Coulon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Vernon Byrd Coulon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20911
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, certified Gestalt Practitioner with extensive training in Sand Tray therapy; a certified Qigong instructor and certified Emotional Freedom Techniques energy psychology practitioner.
We all deserve to be happy. Sometimes events and circumstances may get in our way. Using holistic approaches to compliment traditional talk therapy, I hope you will let me help you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Whether you are dealing with traumatic issues or life challenges, these methods work! As one client shared with me, "after years in talk therapy, this is the first time that I am beginning to feel integrated and whole." If you are ready, please accept my offer to share this journey with you.
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, certified Gestalt Practitioner with extensive training in Sand Tray therapy; a certified Qigong instructor and certified Emotional Freedom Techniques energy psychology practitioner.
We all deserve to be happy. Sometimes events and circumstances may get in our way. Using holistic approaches to compliment traditional talk therapy, I hope you will let me help you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Whether you are dealing with traumatic issues or life challenges, these methods work! As one client shared with me, "after years in talk therapy, this is the first time that I am beginning to feel integrated and whole." If you are ready, please accept my offer to share this journey with you.
(301) 804-2305 View (301) 804-2305
Photo of Deborah Kleiner Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Deborah Kleiner Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I'm an advanced Imago couples and singles therapist and instructor.
I believe in the innate goodness of people. Problems arise when we lack the ability to communicate what's really going on within or can't get past defenses to understand another person's feelings or experiences. Most people haven't been taught the skills to be safe listeners and so we grow up believing that others don't have capacity to understand us. I love bringing people closer by teaching them to cross the bridge into the world of others without losing themselves. I teach emotional safety by demonstrating emotional safety and believe breakdowns create opportunities for new breakthroughs.
I'm an advanced Imago couples and singles therapist and instructor.
I believe in the innate goodness of people. Problems arise when we lack the ability to communicate what's really going on within or can't get past defenses to understand another person's feelings or experiences. Most people haven't been taught the skills to be safe listeners and so we grow up believing that others don't have capacity to understand us. I love bringing people closer by teaching them to cross the bridge into the world of others without losing themselves. I teach emotional safety by demonstrating emotional safety and believe breakdowns create opportunities for new breakthroughs.
(301) 476-5906 View (301) 476-5906
Photo of Alan L Marcus, Psychologist in Kensington, MD
Alan L Marcus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Picking a therapist to work with can be overwhelming. Feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist is critical. During our first session we will explore what brought you to me. Together we identify your struggles, develop a treatment plan, discuss whether you feel comfortable with me, and that our plan makes sense to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. A certified IMAGO, Gottman, Equine Assisted and Diplomat in Sex Therapy, we will talk openly and candidly about your life. Together, we will explore your concerns, past and present and mindfully identify changes for you to consider.
Picking a therapist to work with can be overwhelming. Feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist is critical. During our first session we will explore what brought you to me. Together we identify your struggles, develop a treatment plan, discuss whether you feel comfortable with me, and that our plan makes sense to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. A certified IMAGO, Gottman, Equine Assisted and Diplomat in Sex Therapy, we will talk openly and candidly about your life. Together, we will explore your concerns, past and present and mindfully identify changes for you to consider.
(301) 744-8759 View (301) 744-8759
Photo of Ellen Carol Singer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Ellen Carol Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Ellen Singer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has specialized in helping couples and families for 35+ years. She trained with Dr. Richard Schwartz in the evidence-based Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model. She’s also studied and incorporates tools from highly reputable Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and Imago Therapy. She sees all couples and specializes in high conflict, infidelity/affairs, intimacy/sexual relationships, ADHD impact, and coping with parent-related concerns. She also specializes in couples coping with infertiity, connected to adoption, blended families, and LGBTQ families.
Ellen Singer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has specialized in helping couples and families for 35+ years. She trained with Dr. Richard Schwartz in the evidence-based Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model. She’s also studied and incorporates tools from highly reputable Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and Imago Therapy. She sees all couples and specializes in high conflict, infidelity/affairs, intimacy/sexual relationships, ADHD impact, and coping with parent-related concerns. She also specializes in couples coping with infertiity, connected to adoption, blended families, and LGBTQ families.
(240) 702-2188 View (240) 702-2188
Photo of Sheila A. Litwin, psychotherapy, Counselor in Kensington, MD
Sheila A. Litwin, psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I use my training in Imago Relationships, Gestalt, Voice Dialogue, Dance/Movement, and Group Work, as well as creative processes in therapy.
Fears, anxiety, and depression can be debilitating. I have the ability to listen warmly and compassionately to what you're saying even if you are feeling jumbled or confused. I create a safe space for you to be able to vent. Often having a person listen with understanding of what you might be experiencing can ease your discomfort. I can offer gentle guidance if you are at a crossroad, a turning point or are feeling challenged by others in your life. Relationships are the most important things in our lives, yet often, the most difficult. Better communication skills can help.
I use my training in Imago Relationships, Gestalt, Voice Dialogue, Dance/Movement, and Group Work, as well as creative processes in therapy.
Fears, anxiety, and depression can be debilitating. I have the ability to listen warmly and compassionately to what you're saying even if you are feeling jumbled or confused. I create a safe space for you to be able to vent. Often having a person listen with understanding of what you might be experiencing can ease your discomfort. I can offer gentle guidance if you are at a crossroad, a turning point or are feeling challenged by others in your life. Relationships are the most important things in our lives, yet often, the most difficult. Better communication skills can help.
(301) 983-5101 View (301) 983-5101
Photo of Tory Joseph, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kensington, MD
Tory Joseph
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I offer a warm, accepting approach to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a workshop presenter, parent educator and counselor, I have experienced positive results with hundreds of families. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, I work with couples on improving relationships. Teaching positive parenting techniques, I help parents of both young children and teens to solve problems, and create a healthy, successful family life.
I offer a warm, accepting approach to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a workshop presenter, parent educator and counselor, I have experienced positive results with hundreds of families. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, I work with couples on improving relationships. Teaching positive parenting techniques, I help parents of both young children and teens to solve problems, and create a healthy, successful family life.
(301) 205-5368 View (301) 205-5368
Photo of Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Having skills and knowing what to expect, we succeed! Certifications: Imago Therapy (seen on Oprah),Relationship Enhancement (NIRE Faculty member and Director: Stepfamily Programs),advanced member Stepfamily Foundation.
Do you want more happiness and success in your life? Do you want to reduce stress and have healthier relationships? Has it been hard getting what you want out of life and having people understand what's really on your mind and in your heart? Are those you love not being loving?. When the things we want the most seem out of reach, we can feel anxious, depressed and even angry. Learn to get more of what you want from life and feel more understood, respected, loved and successful Transform your life. WE CAN HELP AND WE DO!
Having skills and knowing what to expect, we succeed! Certifications: Imago Therapy (seen on Oprah),Relationship Enhancement (NIRE Faculty member and Director: Stepfamily Programs),advanced member Stepfamily Foundation.
Do you want more happiness and success in your life? Do you want to reduce stress and have healthier relationships? Has it been hard getting what you want out of life and having people understand what's really on your mind and in your heart? Are those you love not being loving?. When the things we want the most seem out of reach, we can feel anxious, depressed and even angry. Learn to get more of what you want from life and feel more understood, respected, loved and successful Transform your life. WE CAN HELP AND WE DO!
(301) 456-0137 View (301) 456-0137
Photo of Rebecca Whitmore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Rebecca Whitmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I use contemporary modalities based in neuroscience including; EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, IFS, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, Mindfulness, and Somatic Intervention.
We overcome difficulties, adjust to changes, and manage difficult emotions best when we do not have to go at it alone. I offer a supportive partnership to help you identify your goals and build capacity to experience joy, compassionate self regard, and healthy rewarding relationships. I have over 35 years of experience helping children, couples, adults, and parents who experience feeling stuck, alone, sad, anxious, or unable to find the forward motion to reach goals for well being. Together we can create a safe space to address difficult emotions, and identify resources and habits that support resiliency and wellness.
I use contemporary modalities based in neuroscience including; EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, IFS, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, Mindfulness, and Somatic Intervention.
We overcome difficulties, adjust to changes, and manage difficult emotions best when we do not have to go at it alone. I offer a supportive partnership to help you identify your goals and build capacity to experience joy, compassionate self regard, and healthy rewarding relationships. I have over 35 years of experience helping children, couples, adults, and parents who experience feeling stuck, alone, sad, anxious, or unable to find the forward motion to reach goals for well being. Together we can create a safe space to address difficult emotions, and identify resources and habits that support resiliency and wellness.
(240) 775-2294 View (240) 775-2294
Photo of Megan A Szczepanik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Megan A Szczepanik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I am certified Imago therapist, providing couple's counseling, intensive programs, and weekend workshops.
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime together or are just beginning your journey, relationships provide us with priceless opportunities to learn, grow, and heal. So often, we see conflict and power struggles as “warning signs” rather than precious growth gifts. How can this be when conflict with our partner is so painful? The answer lies in the struggle itself. Beneath the anger, there nearly always lies hurt, disappointment, fear, or sadness. The Imago relationship approach challenges us to embrace our vulnerability and communicate with our partner openly and without fear. When we are heard and truly seen, healing begins.
I am certified Imago therapist, providing couple's counseling, intensive programs, and weekend workshops.
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime together or are just beginning your journey, relationships provide us with priceless opportunities to learn, grow, and heal. So often, we see conflict and power struggles as “warning signs” rather than precious growth gifts. How can this be when conflict with our partner is so painful? The answer lies in the struggle itself. Beneath the anger, there nearly always lies hurt, disappointment, fear, or sadness. The Imago relationship approach challenges us to embrace our vulnerability and communicate with our partner openly and without fear. When we are heard and truly seen, healing begins.
(727) 269-5426 View (727) 269-5426
Photo of Nancy Hyatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Nancy Hyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
(202) 796-6091 View (202) 796-6091
Photo of Gwen Enfield Pearl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Gwen Enfield Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
(202) 618-9869 View (202) 618-9869
Photo of Sheila Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Sheila Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
If you have concerns, worries or anxieties or feel overwhelmed sometimes, we can look at these together and work toward resolution in a relationship of trust, empathy, insight and honesty. I search for each person's strengths to enable them to have more control over their life. Most people have difficulty in relationships..........with friends, family members, or individuals in their work setting. We work together on improving communication to empower you to be more successful.
If you have concerns, worries or anxieties or feel overwhelmed sometimes, we can look at these together and work toward resolution in a relationship of trust, empathy, insight and honesty. I search for each person's strengths to enable them to have more control over their life. Most people have difficulty in relationships..........with friends, family members, or individuals in their work setting. We work together on improving communication to empower you to be more successful.
(301) 321-7269 View (301) 321-7269
Photo of Tamia Barnes Tomasek Counseling LLC, Counselor in Kensington, MD
Tamia Barnes Tomasek Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
If you find yourself grappling with reactions to people and situations that leave you less than proud, it’s time to embark on a journey of transformation. Understanding the root causes of these reactions is a crucial step in building self-awareness. Together, we will delve into the process of change, so you can gain insight into how your past experiences have shaped your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For couples seeking to enhance their relationship dynamics, my Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) Intensives provide a unique opportunity for focused, in-depth work.
If you find yourself grappling with reactions to people and situations that leave you less than proud, it’s time to embark on a journey of transformation. Understanding the root causes of these reactions is a crucial step in building self-awareness. Together, we will delve into the process of change, so you can gain insight into how your past experiences have shaped your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For couples seeking to enhance their relationship dynamics, my Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) Intensives provide a unique opportunity for focused, in-depth work.
(240) 734-3637 View (240) 734-3637
Photo of Sonia Salmon-Gayle, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kensington, MD
Sonia Salmon-Gayle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Aspen Hill, MD 20906  (Online Only)
Salmon-Gayle is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), health advocate, strategist, and doctoral candidate in health psychology. With an educational background in pastoral counseling, she incorporates the spiritual beliefs of her clients into the therapeutic process. With a focus on couple’s counseling she believes communication, validation and connectedness are the areas that builds the bridge to a healthy fun loving relationships. Ms Salmon- Gayle celebrates the client's increased self-awareness, acceptance, and authentic growth throughout the therapeutic process.
Salmon-Gayle is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), health advocate, strategist, and doctoral candidate in health psychology. With an educational background in pastoral counseling, she incorporates the spiritual beliefs of her clients into the therapeutic process. With a focus on couple’s counseling she believes communication, validation and connectedness are the areas that builds the bridge to a healthy fun loving relationships. Ms Salmon- Gayle celebrates the client's increased self-awareness, acceptance, and authentic growth throughout the therapeutic process.
(301) 678-1654 View (301) 678-1654
Photo of Cindy Learn, Counselor in Kensington, MD
Cindy Learn
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Do you feel unsettled, out of balance, or like you don't have a voice? Are you at a crossroads in your life and not sure which path to take? In the safety of my office, I help clients find their balance, gain insight, make intentional changes, heal and grow - as individuals and in relationships. I have found that empowering clients with practical strategies to incorporate into their daily living while supporting clients in doing the deeper work of increasing their understanding of themselves and their partners (for clients in couples counseling), ultimately leads to the most meaningful changes.
Do you feel unsettled, out of balance, or like you don't have a voice? Are you at a crossroads in your life and not sure which path to take? In the safety of my office, I help clients find their balance, gain insight, make intentional changes, heal and grow - as individuals and in relationships. I have found that empowering clients with practical strategies to incorporate into their daily living while supporting clients in doing the deeper work of increasing their understanding of themselves and their partners (for clients in couples counseling), ultimately leads to the most meaningful changes.
(304) 337-5508 View (304) 337-5508
Photo of Terra Bufkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington, MD
Terra Bufkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
As your therapist, my goal is to work in collaboration with you, to uncover your true potential and provide the guidance to overcome the challenges you are facing. We will work together to better understand and resolve challenges in an environment of support and guidance. I will use a variety of treatment approaches in our work to help you address your issues and concerns.
As your therapist, my goal is to work in collaboration with you, to uncover your true potential and provide the guidance to overcome the challenges you are facing. We will work together to better understand and resolve challenges in an environment of support and guidance. I will use a variety of treatment approaches in our work to help you address your issues and concerns.
(301) 381-2479 View (301) 381-2479
Photo of Atar Stav, Counselor in Kensington, MD
Atar Stav
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Has your partner become a roommate instead of a romantic partner? Do one or both of you lack physical desire for each other? Are you struggling with how to reconnect sexually and regain the intimacy you once shared? Or perhaps you want to work individually, feel empowered, and have more joy and pleasure in your life? Working from a strengths based & holistic perspective, I am skilled at creating a warm, open space to help individuals and couples increase intimacy, enhance understanding, navigate changing roles, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, heal trauma, and create satisfying relationships.
Has your partner become a roommate instead of a romantic partner? Do one or both of you lack physical desire for each other? Are you struggling with how to reconnect sexually and regain the intimacy you once shared? Or perhaps you want to work individually, feel empowered, and have more joy and pleasure in your life? Working from a strengths based & holistic perspective, I am skilled at creating a warm, open space to help individuals and couples increase intimacy, enhance understanding, navigate changing roles, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, heal trauma, and create satisfying relationships.
(240) 202-2410 View (240) 202-2410
Imago Therapists

How does Imago therapy work?

Imago relationship therapy is a form of couples counseling meant to help partners address conflict, communication problems, and related issues. Imago sessions typically involve couples sitting facing each other and participating in guided conversations. Therapy will also involve exercises such as re-imagining one’s partner as a wounded child; re-romanticizing a relationship through appreciation, surprises, and even gift-giving and restructuring frustrations by transforming complaints into requests. The ultimate goal is to re-envision the relationship as a source of safety and happiness.

What is the Imago method?

A core technique of Imago therapy is the Imago dialogue, in which partners learn to avoid hurtful statements and establish ways to interact based on each having equal space and power. In the dialogue, partners take turns as the “sender,” who shares their thoughts, and the “receiver.” The receiver is asked to “mirror,” or paraphrase, what their partner has said, without response or rebuttal, and then validate their statements, acknowledging understanding even if they do not personally agree with it. Finally, the receiver displays empathy by stating what they imagine the other is feeling, and showing appreciation for it.

How long does Imago therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for Imago therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core techniques of Imago coaching, some couples quickly make progress, but most should expect sessions to extend for months, encompassing at least 12 to 20 sessions, along with extensive “homework” from their therapist.

Does Imago therapy work?

There is limited empirical evidence to support the benefits of Imago therapy, but some smaller studies suggest that it does help couples, at least in the short-term. A 2017 study found that marital satisfaction increased significantly after couples completed 12 sessions of Imago therapy, and remained higher for some time after that, but did not always result in “complete recovery.” Other studies found greater empathy and fewer feelings of relationship burnout in couples after therapy. Some research suggests that Imago therapy can aid individuals as well as couples; people with ADHD in particular may benefit from the development of communication, self-control, and listening skills that form the basis of the technique.