Imago Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Erin Wigger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Erin Wigger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
Therapy seeks to address the patterns and unresolved material unique to each of us which hampers our ability to connect meaningfully with others and limits our capacity for joy. I work with couples and individuals looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and work collaboratively to cultivate curiosity, authenticity, honesty, self-compassion, and the ability to tolerate difficult feelings. I use a combination of gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, relational therapy, EMDR, and somatic interventions when working with individuals. My couple’s work is mainly inspired by family systems theory and imago therapy.
Therapy seeks to address the patterns and unresolved material unique to each of us which hampers our ability to connect meaningfully with others and limits our capacity for joy. I work with couples and individuals looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and work collaboratively to cultivate curiosity, authenticity, honesty, self-compassion, and the ability to tolerate difficult feelings. I use a combination of gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, relational therapy, EMDR, and somatic interventions when working with individuals. My couple’s work is mainly inspired by family systems theory and imago therapy.
(310) 986-3240 View (310) 986-3240
Photo of Charles V Rosasco, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Charles V Rosasco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CIRT, SILC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
Taking the step into therapy is an act of courage to face what is holding you back. Are you suffering from depression or anxiety? Having trouble forming intimate relationships? Having a challenge in your relationship? Can't find a meaningful career? Faced with an addiction problem? Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Self Compassion, Psychodynamic Therapy, and, if needed, group therapy, we will dismantle the unconscious problems resulting in these problems so that you you can finally ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS and experience the joy you deserve in life.
Taking the step into therapy is an act of courage to face what is holding you back. Are you suffering from depression or anxiety? Having trouble forming intimate relationships? Having a challenge in your relationship? Can't find a meaningful career? Faced with an addiction problem? Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Self Compassion, Psychodynamic Therapy, and, if needed, group therapy, we will dismantle the unconscious problems resulting in these problems so that you you can finally ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS and experience the joy you deserve in life.
(424) 352-8153 View (424) 352-8153
Photo of John Buse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
John Buse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I have several specialties: For relationships, I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist developed by Harville Hendrix.
Sometimes we need a little help to reclaim or find our inner strength. I believe we all possess the wisdom to succeed somewhere within our psyche. My goal in therapy is to help clients overcome the obstacles that hinder them on their path. I tend to look for the strengths in individuals and my objective is to embrace each client without judgment in order to create a safe environment. I also believe it is important for one to feel heard and validated for their experience in order to move beyond their blocks.
I have several specialties: For relationships, I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist developed by Harville Hendrix.
Sometimes we need a little help to reclaim or find our inner strength. I believe we all possess the wisdom to succeed somewhere within our psyche. My goal in therapy is to help clients overcome the obstacles that hinder them on their path. I tend to look for the strengths in individuals and my objective is to embrace each client without judgment in order to create a safe environment. I also believe it is important for one to feel heard and validated for their experience in order to move beyond their blocks.
(323) 601-5604 View (323) 601-5604
Photo of Rima Simon Individual and Couple Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rima Simon Individual and Couple Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBSR
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I design interventions specific to your needs, including mindfulness, cognitive behavior therapy, trauma informed care, and Imago Therapy.
As a psychotherapist I help you sort through your feelings of confusion, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and/or life transitions so you can manage your unique circumstances with more understanding, acceptance and ease.
I design interventions specific to your needs, including mindfulness, cognitive behavior therapy, trauma informed care, and Imago Therapy.
As a psychotherapist I help you sort through your feelings of confusion, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and/or life transitions so you can manage your unique circumstances with more understanding, acceptance and ease.
(818) 698-2559 View (818) 698-2559
Photo of Evie Shafner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Evie Shafner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Imago therapy is an amazing relationship technology that very quickly gets us back to safe communication and experiencing our partner as a source of emotional safety, and passionate friendship. In my 35 years of working with couples as a specialty, Imago is the best system I have known to get us back to that feeling that we had in the beginning of our relationship. Its structured communication techniques distinguish it from all other types of couples therapy. the process itself feels very nonthreatening to both partners.
Imago therapy is an amazing relationship technology that very quickly gets us back to safe communication and experiencing our partner as a source of emotional safety, and passionate friendship. In my 35 years of working with couples as a specialty, Imago is the best system I have known to get us back to that feeling that we had in the beginning of our relationship. Its structured communication techniques distinguish it from all other types of couples therapy. the process itself feels very nonthreatening to both partners.
(323) 703-5976 View (323) 703-5976
Photo of Yossi Benperlas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Yossi Benperlas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
When working with couples, I use an active approach and I encourage both partners to talk directly to one another in a way that is respectful and compassionate by using the Imago Dialogue.
As a therapist who has worked with individuals and families within the community for the last 20 years, it is my goal to provide you with an opportunity to create change in areas of your life where you feel stuck. Whether your struggle is in a relationship or stress related to some other circumstance, we will discuss the issues so that you can feel empowered to take action that will lead to positive changes.
When working with couples, I use an active approach and I encourage both partners to talk directly to one another in a way that is respectful and compassionate by using the Imago Dialogue.
As a therapist who has worked with individuals and families within the community for the last 20 years, it is my goal to provide you with an opportunity to create change in areas of your life where you feel stuck. Whether your struggle is in a relationship or stress related to some other circumstance, we will discuss the issues so that you can feel empowered to take action that will lead to positive changes.
(310) 361-4275 View (310) 361-4275
Photo of Kimberly Cervantes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kimberly Cervantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
Hello. My name is Kimberly Cervantes, LMFT. I use a Strength-Based Model approach to counseling and life while giving ideas for managing and changing problems/issues that come up in life. Guide people through the path of healing life's wounds and bring their relationship more joy and satisfaction. I am comfortable working with a wide, unlimited scope of client issues. I combine several Theories of counseling in my practice including "Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy", "Imago Relationship Therapy", "Solution Focused Therapy" and Family Systems Therapy".
Hello. My name is Kimberly Cervantes, LMFT. I use a Strength-Based Model approach to counseling and life while giving ideas for managing and changing problems/issues that come up in life. Guide people through the path of healing life's wounds and bring their relationship more joy and satisfaction. I am comfortable working with a wide, unlimited scope of client issues. I combine several Theories of counseling in my practice including "Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy", "Imago Relationship Therapy", "Solution Focused Therapy" and Family Systems Therapy".
(949) 558-2081 View (949) 558-2081
Photo of Dr. Kerry O'Reilly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Kerry O'Reilly
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, FIPA, NCCT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I am a psychoanalyst, certified EMDR therapist, and IMAGO couple's therapist. I work with individuals and couples (gay and straight) on everything from complex trauma stemming from childhood and PTSD, to relationship ruptures both personally and professionally. Couples' work allows couples to move from blame and reactivity to understanding and empathy, so they can create a deeper and more loving connection with each other. I also work with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, and career challenges. As a former TV anchor and journalist, I understand the inner workings of the entertainment/news industry.
I am a psychoanalyst, certified EMDR therapist, and IMAGO couple's therapist. I work with individuals and couples (gay and straight) on everything from complex trauma stemming from childhood and PTSD, to relationship ruptures both personally and professionally. Couples' work allows couples to move from blame and reactivity to understanding and empathy, so they can create a deeper and more loving connection with each other. I also work with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, and career challenges. As a former TV anchor and journalist, I understand the inner workings of the entertainment/news industry.
(805) 900-3788 View (805) 900-3788
Photo of Jamie Rizzo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jamie Rizzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
For couples who are experiencing crisis, communication issues, or want to deepen their connection, I use Imago Relationship Therapy, among other techniques, to facilitate the process.
You realize what you're doing no longer works for you. You are ready to learn new coping skills and techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. Life transitions have led you to this point, and you are seeking therapy to assist you in healing and moving forward into the life you want to live. You long to thrive! I believe that each person carries the resources within themselves to create the life they envision. You will learn to access your inner resources to navigate life experiences and deepen your connection to Self.
For couples who are experiencing crisis, communication issues, or want to deepen their connection, I use Imago Relationship Therapy, among other techniques, to facilitate the process.
You realize what you're doing no longer works for you. You are ready to learn new coping skills and techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. Life transitions have led you to this point, and you are seeking therapy to assist you in healing and moving forward into the life you want to live. You long to thrive! I believe that each person carries the resources within themselves to create the life they envision. You will learn to access your inner resources to navigate life experiences and deepen your connection to Self.
(510) 768-7252 View (510) 768-7252
Photo of Eleanor Haspel-Portner, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Eleanor Haspel-Portner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you at an important crossroad in your life? Has your marriage/relationship lost its luster? Learn the skills of Imago Dialogue to rekindle your love and feel the joy of love in your life again. I effectively blend therapies so you'll get results. When you focus on connecting with your inner wisdom and knowing, you achieve balance in all areas of your life with a sense of conscious fulfillment that turns your dreams into reality. Achieve your goals and thrive. Change your choices, change your life. Call me now: (310) 403-4347.
Are you at an important crossroad in your life? Has your marriage/relationship lost its luster? Learn the skills of Imago Dialogue to rekindle your love and feel the joy of love in your life again. I effectively blend therapies so you'll get results. When you focus on connecting with your inner wisdom and knowing, you achieve balance in all areas of your life with a sense of conscious fulfillment that turns your dreams into reality. Achieve your goals and thrive. Change your choices, change your life. Call me now: (310) 403-4347.
(424) 312-0550 View (424) 312-0550
Photo of Marcia Hayden MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Marcia Hayden MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMAGO, EMDR, TRM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I have specialized in working with couples since 2005 as an Imago Therapist.
Do you struggle in your Relationships? Whether you have been together for years or you just met, there is a reason why you have chosen your partner out of millions of people! I have a passion for working with Individuals and Couples who have had challenging childhoods. I have noticed that these people often need help in their relationships! I will show you how to heal each other through the pain to have an amazing Relationship in an interesting and enriching way. Note: I am currently accepting new clients through " Virtual Therapy" during quarantine.
I have specialized in working with couples since 2005 as an Imago Therapist.
Do you struggle in your Relationships? Whether you have been together for years or you just met, there is a reason why you have chosen your partner out of millions of people! I have a passion for working with Individuals and Couples who have had challenging childhoods. I have noticed that these people often need help in their relationships! I will show you how to heal each other through the pain to have an amazing Relationship in an interesting and enriching way. Note: I am currently accepting new clients through " Virtual Therapy" during quarantine.
(818) 514-4818 View (818) 514-4818
Photo of Natalya Sivashov, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Natalya Sivashov
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90003
A specialty that I offer is working with couples utilizing Imago Relationship Therapy.
I lived in 3 different countries throughout my formative years which has inspired in me a love for multiculturalism, open-heartedness, resilience, and a passion for helping people heal. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Additionally, I am genuinely respectful and considerate of all different sexual and gender identities, cultures, ethnicities, and faiths. I draw from my interest, knowledge, and experience with somatic experiencing, EMDR, depth psychotherapy, mythology, and eco-therapy to assist my clients.
A specialty that I offer is working with couples utilizing Imago Relationship Therapy.
I lived in 3 different countries throughout my formative years which has inspired in me a love for multiculturalism, open-heartedness, resilience, and a passion for helping people heal. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Additionally, I am genuinely respectful and considerate of all different sexual and gender identities, cultures, ethnicities, and faiths. I draw from my interest, knowledge, and experience with somatic experiencing, EMDR, depth psychotherapy, mythology, and eco-therapy to assist my clients.
(626) 790-7060 View (626) 790-7060
Photo of Minnie Goode Imago Relationship Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Minnie Goode Imago Relationship Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), a powerful and transformative approach that heals and enhances all relationships.
If you are seeking help for your relationship, it's probably because things feel distant, disconnected, or even out of control. You feel like you can't communicate no matter how hard you try. You are tired of arguing. You want to feel close again but don't know where to begin. Maybe you don't recognize yourselves after you had children and day-to-day family life feels overwhelming and joyless. Maybe you've experienced a betrayal and are so filled with sadness and rage you don't recognize yourself anymore. You want to fix things but are afraid of the pain. Perhaps you made a mistake and need help regaining your partner's trust.
I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), a powerful and transformative approach that heals and enhances all relationships.
If you are seeking help for your relationship, it's probably because things feel distant, disconnected, or even out of control. You feel like you can't communicate no matter how hard you try. You are tired of arguing. You want to feel close again but don't know where to begin. Maybe you don't recognize yourselves after you had children and day-to-day family life feels overwhelming and joyless. Maybe you've experienced a betrayal and are so filled with sadness and rage you don't recognize yourself anymore. You want to fix things but are afraid of the pain. Perhaps you made a mistake and need help regaining your partner's trust.
(323) 886-0374 View (323) 886-0374
Photo of Genevieve Gonzales Lcsw Rapid Resolution Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Genevieve Gonzales Lcsw Rapid Resolution Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PPS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001  (Online Only)
I incorporate clinical nutrition & Holistic Mental Health in my practice and offer Couples Therapy using IMAGO & RRT perspectives.
I facilitate meaningful transformations for individuals & couples who have been suffering from many various challenges such as sexual trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, & depression. Using Rapid Resolution Therapy created by Dr. Jon Connelly & Holistic nutritional practices I address issues at their root cause to generate results quickly & in each session. The techniques utilized during our session are painless, interesting & many people even say fun, so healing and beneficial shifts in your mind & body can occur effortlessly and automatically. I have been told that "it felt like a dark cloud lifted" after just 1 session.
I incorporate clinical nutrition & Holistic Mental Health in my practice and offer Couples Therapy using IMAGO & RRT perspectives.
I facilitate meaningful transformations for individuals & couples who have been suffering from many various challenges such as sexual trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, & depression. Using Rapid Resolution Therapy created by Dr. Jon Connelly & Holistic nutritional practices I address issues at their root cause to generate results quickly & in each session. The techniques utilized during our session are painless, interesting & many people even say fun, so healing and beneficial shifts in your mind & body can occur effortlessly and automatically. I have been told that "it felt like a dark cloud lifted" after just 1 session.
(858) 258-5738 View (858) 258-5738
Photo of Larisa Southerland, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Larisa Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I primarily use Imago Relationship Therapy to help repair relational ruptures, rebuild trust, and develop effective ways of communicating that soon become second nature.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT145725) at Relationship Wisdom. Supervised by Brad Byrum, LMFT118448. Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
I primarily use Imago Relationship Therapy to help repair relational ruptures, rebuild trust, and develop effective ways of communicating that soon become second nature.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT145725) at Relationship Wisdom. Supervised by Brad Byrum, LMFT118448. Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
(323) 894-0768 View (323) 894-0768
Photo of Vera C. Eck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Vera C. Eck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
While curating from the recent developments in the field of neuroscience, I utilize a variety of modalities to help people re-connect with themselves and others. As a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples re-build safety, improve communication, and decrease tension. I am also incorporating techniques from PACT Therapy: A Psycho-biological Approach to Couple's Therapy, which guides couples towards a more secure functioning relationship. Please feel free to call for a free consultation.
While curating from the recent developments in the field of neuroscience, I utilize a variety of modalities to help people re-connect with themselves and others. As a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples re-build safety, improve communication, and decrease tension. I am also incorporating techniques from PACT Therapy: A Psycho-biological Approach to Couple's Therapy, which guides couples towards a more secure functioning relationship. Please feel free to call for a free consultation.
(424) 243-5974 View (424) 243-5974
Photo of Will Schofield, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Will Schofield
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CADC II
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My therapeutic approach supports a centering of the individual to draw upon their foundational ideas of self. We all experience times when we struggle to make sense of, cope with, and bring forward our best selves. I love helping clients unpack what is most challenging in their lives. Through our past exploration of built-upon themes and skills, a different sense of presence can feel more capable with additional ways of interacting to support your goals. My clients are high-functioning individuals and families who are dealing with grief, value/identity, trauma, challenging circumstances, relationship issues, and addiction.
My therapeutic approach supports a centering of the individual to draw upon their foundational ideas of self. We all experience times when we struggle to make sense of, cope with, and bring forward our best selves. I love helping clients unpack what is most challenging in their lives. Through our past exploration of built-upon themes and skills, a different sense of presence can feel more capable with additional ways of interacting to support your goals. My clients are high-functioning individuals and families who are dealing with grief, value/identity, trauma, challenging circumstances, relationship issues, and addiction.
(424) 677-1445 View (424) 677-1445
Photo of Lynn Valverde Marriage & Family Therapy Prof Corp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lynn Valverde Marriage & Family Therapy Prof Corp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
The truth is life can be difficult! We all experience loss, disappointment, anxiety, and self-doubt. Peace, clarity, and wellbeing are your natural state. Depression, anxiety and relationship problems cause anguish and pain - getting by day to day can be challenging. We often struggle alone hoping things will get better. I care and I am here to support you in connecting with your innate wisdom allowing you to find solutions and make the changes that are most meaningful to you. Be more productive, have higher quality connections, and success. Experience more joy, love, laughter, and self-confidence. I'd love to hear from you!
The truth is life can be difficult! We all experience loss, disappointment, anxiety, and self-doubt. Peace, clarity, and wellbeing are your natural state. Depression, anxiety and relationship problems cause anguish and pain - getting by day to day can be challenging. We often struggle alone hoping things will get better. I care and I am here to support you in connecting with your innate wisdom allowing you to find solutions and make the changes that are most meaningful to you. Be more productive, have higher quality connections, and success. Experience more joy, love, laughter, and self-confidence. I'd love to hear from you!
(424) 653-6737 View (424) 653-6737
Photo of Irene Ornelas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Irene Ornelas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Her professional social work experience includes working directly with individuals and families from diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds as a Medical Social Worker and Clinical Social Worker. Her over 20 years of experience includes working in public health with adolescents who were pregnant and parenting, children challenged with physical disabilities, and individuals living with HIV/AIDS, as well as with individuals receiving care in renal dialysis, hospital, home health, hospice, and pediatric clinic settings as well as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).
Her professional social work experience includes working directly with individuals and families from diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds as a Medical Social Worker and Clinical Social Worker. Her over 20 years of experience includes working in public health with adolescents who were pregnant and parenting, children challenged with physical disabilities, and individuals living with HIV/AIDS, as well as with individuals receiving care in renal dialysis, hospital, home health, hospice, and pediatric clinic settings as well as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).
(310) 455-8168 View (310) 455-8168
Photo of Gaslighting; Narcissist Abuse; Toxic Bonding, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Gaslighting; Narcissist Abuse; Toxic Bonding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-PD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
GASLIGHTING; NARCISSIST ABUSE; CODEPENDENCY; TOXIC ATTACHMENT; HI-CONFLICT RELATIONSHIP: Gaslighting is a form of psychological/emotional abuse where the abuser manipulates situations repeatedly to trick the victim into doubting his/her own memory, perception & sanity. You're accused of doing something that you know you didn't do or say. Often belittled, demeaned, and raged upon. You walk on eggshells & constantly need to watch what you say for fear your partner might blow up. You often feel confused & now distrust yourself; have trouble making decisions & feel like you lost yourself or don't know the person you used to be.
GASLIGHTING; NARCISSIST ABUSE; CODEPENDENCY; TOXIC ATTACHMENT; HI-CONFLICT RELATIONSHIP: Gaslighting is a form of psychological/emotional abuse where the abuser manipulates situations repeatedly to trick the victim into doubting his/her own memory, perception & sanity. You're accused of doing something that you know you didn't do or say. Often belittled, demeaned, and raged upon. You walk on eggshells & constantly need to watch what you say for fear your partner might blow up. You often feel confused & now distrust yourself; have trouble making decisions & feel like you lost yourself or don't know the person you used to be.
(424) 331-1039 View (424) 331-1039

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.