Imago Therapists in Vaughan, ON

Photo of Manisha Saini - M.Saini and Associates, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
M.Saini and Associates
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
I understand that life can be overwhelming at times. I can help you navigate through life’s difficulties. My goal is to provide a safe ,confidential and supportive environment where you can gain self-awareness and take control of your life and make positive changes. I am specialized in a range of therapeutic approaches and my 30 years of experience of working with individuals, couples, families and teenagers has given me knowledge and skills to customize a treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I am committed to helping you reach your goals and develop a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
I understand that life can be overwhelming at times. I can help you navigate through life’s difficulties. My goal is to provide a safe ,confidential and supportive environment where you can gain self-awareness and take control of your life and make positive changes. I am specialized in a range of therapeutic approaches and my 30 years of experience of working with individuals, couples, families and teenagers has given me knowledge and skills to customize a treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I am committed to helping you reach your goals and develop a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
(289) 272-7410 View (289) 272-7410
Photo of Janice Canning, RP, CHyp, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Janice Canning
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, CHyp
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L6A
I can help you to understand your physical, emotional, and brain changes that come with exposure to workplace and personal trauma. I use a variety of therapeutic methods: cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, somatic awareness, and Mindfulness, where focused attention of present thoughts and feelings leads to behavioral changes. I support you through psychedelic therapy, ketamine and psilocybin which is known to help PTSD, persistent depression, anxiety and addictions. Are you looking for a therapist that understands front-line responders, military and veterans? 2SLGBT+ experience? And YOU!
I can help you to understand your physical, emotional, and brain changes that come with exposure to workplace and personal trauma. I use a variety of therapeutic methods: cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, somatic awareness, and Mindfulness, where focused attention of present thoughts and feelings leads to behavioral changes. I support you through psychedelic therapy, ketamine and psilocybin which is known to help PTSD, persistent depression, anxiety and addictions. Are you looking for a therapist that understands front-line responders, military and veterans? 2SLGBT+ experience? And YOU!
(249) 559-1196 View (249) 559-1196
Photo of Larysa Strizhevsky Psychotherapy Essence, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Larysa Strizhevsky Psychotherapy Essence
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K
It may not be easy to overcome life’s challenges on your own and reaching for help is an essential step for change. You might struggle with upsetting emotions and conditions as Anxiety, Panic, Anger, Guilt, Grief, Depression, Trauma. Or you might be having difficulty adjusting to a major life change, wishing to establish healthier relationships. You may want to be more assertive and live your life fully. We can find a healing path forward. My passion and commitment is to help identify, address, and resolve barriers that get in a way of fulfillment and ease in your life.
It may not be easy to overcome life’s challenges on your own and reaching for help is an essential step for change. You might struggle with upsetting emotions and conditions as Anxiety, Panic, Anger, Guilt, Grief, Depression, Trauma. Or you might be having difficulty adjusting to a major life change, wishing to establish healthier relationships. You may want to be more assertive and live your life fully. We can find a healing path forward. My passion and commitment is to help identify, address, and resolve barriers that get in a way of fulfillment and ease in your life.
(289) 217-4883 View (289) 217-4883
Photo of Tara Shafiepour, BA, MPsy, Registered Psychotherapist
Tara Shafiepour
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MPsy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
My purpose is to support you in releasing old traumas, fears, energetic blocks and limiting thought patterns that keep you from living a liberated and fulfilled life. I understand the importance of incorporating spiritual practices and education in working through presenting life issues and concerns. My priority is to make therapy a safe space for you to express yourself freely, without fear of judgement, and to support you in the pursuit of fostering a compassionate relationship with yourself and those around you.
My purpose is to support you in releasing old traumas, fears, energetic blocks and limiting thought patterns that keep you from living a liberated and fulfilled life. I understand the importance of incorporating spiritual practices and education in working through presenting life issues and concerns. My priority is to make therapy a safe space for you to express yourself freely, without fear of judgement, and to support you in the pursuit of fostering a compassionate relationship with yourself and those around you.
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Photo of Maria Yaglovski, RP, CCC, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Maria Yaglovski
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L6A  (Online Only)
Life has a way of presenting challenges and difficulties that can stop even the strongest in their paths. Increased stress, sudden changes, anxiety, unresolved trauma...each can trigger unpleasant and negative emotions that hold us back at the least and damage our health and relationships at their worst. If your emotional or mental well-being, your relationships with others or with yourself, or your ability to problem solve is out of balance – whatever the issue or stumbling block, a safe therapeutic relationship can help you return to, or develop a greater sense of ease and well-being.
Life has a way of presenting challenges and difficulties that can stop even the strongest in their paths. Increased stress, sudden changes, anxiety, unresolved trauma...each can trigger unpleasant and negative emotions that hold us back at the least and damage our health and relationships at their worst. If your emotional or mental well-being, your relationships with others or with yourself, or your ability to problem solve is out of balance – whatever the issue or stumbling block, a safe therapeutic relationship can help you return to, or develop a greater sense of ease and well-being.
(613) 800-2286 View (613) 800-2286
Photo of Svetlana Antonyshyn - InnerSight Psychotherapy Inc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
InnerSight Psychotherapy Inc
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L6A
InnerSight Psychotherapy is where every story is heard, and every journey is respected. Our team is not just a group of therapists; we are guides, listeners, and unwavering supporters on your path to wellness. Each therapist brings a unique set of skills and specialties to support a variety of issues with deep empathy and professionalism. From the quiet struggles of the mind to the challenges faced by couples and families, our team's expertise spans across the spectrum of psychotherapy. At the heart of our clinic accountability and professional growth is not just a principle – it's our practice.
InnerSight Psychotherapy is where every story is heard, and every journey is respected. Our team is not just a group of therapists; we are guides, listeners, and unwavering supporters on your path to wellness. Each therapist brings a unique set of skills and specialties to support a variety of issues with deep empathy and professionalism. From the quiet struggles of the mind to the challenges faced by couples and families, our team's expertise spans across the spectrum of psychotherapy. At the heart of our clinic accountability and professional growth is not just a principle – it's our practice.
(289) 809-6181 View (289) 809-6181
Photo of Jansu Edis, MACP, BA(Hon), BA, CRPO, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jansu Edis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA(Hon), BA, CRPO, OAMHP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
It can feel exhausting to keep pushing through when anxiety, stress, or relationship struggles weigh you down. You deserve a space where judgment is replaced with acceptance - to get to know & embrace your authentic self & begin meeting your needs. Life's challenges aren't meant to be faced alone, and if you're here, you may have already noticed that avoiding your feelings hasn't been working. This is where I come in. Here, individuals & partners are invited to truly FEEL, guided by my commitment to fostering curiosity, understanding, well-being & joy.
It can feel exhausting to keep pushing through when anxiety, stress, or relationship struggles weigh you down. You deserve a space where judgment is replaced with acceptance - to get to know & embrace your authentic self & begin meeting your needs. Life's challenges aren't meant to be faced alone, and if you're here, you may have already noticed that avoiding your feelings hasn't been working. This is where I come in. Here, individuals & partners are invited to truly FEEL, guided by my commitment to fostering curiosity, understanding, well-being & joy.
(647) 947-7705 View (647) 947-7705
Photo of Josie Venneri - Libra Psychotherapy - Josie Venneri, BA, RP, CHRL, Registered Psychotherapist
Libra Psychotherapy - Josie Venneri
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP, CHRL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L6A
People-pleaser, perfectionist, caretaker, rescuer, fixer… We all have defenses that help us move through life. There comes a time, however, when one or more of our defenses doesn’t work for us any longer. This is when therapy can help. Perhaps you are going through or considering a major life transition (relationship, career, lifestyle) but old defenses, beliefs and patterns are getting in the way. You want to trust your choices, but don’t know if you can. All you know is that it’s not possible to go forward the same way. Something needs to change.
People-pleaser, perfectionist, caretaker, rescuer, fixer… We all have defenses that help us move through life. There comes a time, however, when one or more of our defenses doesn’t work for us any longer. This is when therapy can help. Perhaps you are going through or considering a major life transition (relationship, career, lifestyle) but old defenses, beliefs and patterns are getting in the way. You want to trust your choices, but don’t know if you can. All you know is that it’s not possible to go forward the same way. Something needs to change.
(647) 371-5601 View (647) 371-5601
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4H  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(249) 202-2308 View (249) 202-2308
Photo of Melanie Tsesler - Melanie Tsesler, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Melanie Tsesler
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H
I offer Mindfulness Psychotherapy virtually to individuals and couples looking for a safe, and non-judgmental space to help them navigate through their overwhelming feelings and challenges. My specialty is giving individuals tools to help move through stress, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I use Mindfulness in my practice to help individuals cope with life’s constant changes, along with other useful modalities.
I offer Mindfulness Psychotherapy virtually to individuals and couples looking for a safe, and non-judgmental space to help them navigate through their overwhelming feelings and challenges. My specialty is giving individuals tools to help move through stress, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I use Mindfulness in my practice to help individuals cope with life’s constant changes, along with other useful modalities.
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Photo of Leah Gordon - The Counselling Centre, RSW, MSW, MEd, Registered Social Worker
The Counselling Centre
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J
Making the first step and reaching out to professionals who can help may be an overwhelming experience. But if you find the right fit for you, it is well worth it and will lead to amazing results. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, or just feel you need to explore yourself to make a change, you've come to right place. I am a therapist and counselor with an MSW from Wilfred Laurier University and M. Ed from Saint Leo University with special training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mental health challenges at the University of Toronto (OISE).
Making the first step and reaching out to professionals who can help may be an overwhelming experience. But if you find the right fit for you, it is well worth it and will lead to amazing results. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, or just feel you need to explore yourself to make a change, you've come to right place. I am a therapist and counselor with an MSW from Wilfred Laurier University and M. Ed from Saint Leo University with special training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mental health challenges at the University of Toronto (OISE).
(647) 699-3128 View (647) 699-3128

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ellen White
Ellen White
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5N
I’m certified in Imago theory, and trained in narrative therapy, NLP, meditation, Enneagram and metaphysics.
I am a professional Life Coach, Certified Imago Facilitator (Relationship Coach) and Intuitive Counsellor. I have 20 years of experience helping people to develop their full potential for joy and success. I have a full-time private practice and coach clients all over the world. Sessions are conducted in person, phone or online. I hosted the documentary TV show The Truth Behind Yourself and authored two national columns in one of Canada's largest daily newspapers. I work with a variety of issues, ie, relationship, career and weight, but ultimately, it’s about self discovery.
I’m certified in Imago theory, and trained in narrative therapy, NLP, meditation, Enneagram and metaphysics.
I am a professional Life Coach, Certified Imago Facilitator (Relationship Coach) and Intuitive Counsellor. I have 20 years of experience helping people to develop their full potential for joy and success. I have a full-time private practice and coach clients all over the world. Sessions are conducted in person, phone or online. I hosted the documentary TV show The Truth Behind Yourself and authored two national columns in one of Canada's largest daily newspapers. I work with a variety of issues, ie, relationship, career and weight, but ultimately, it’s about self discovery.
(647) 699-3640 View (647) 699-3640
Photo of Jeannie Bishop, BA, BSW, MSW , CSAT, Registered Social Worker
Jeannie Bishop
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW , CSAT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4R
Working from a trauma-informed, attachment-based lens, I utilize an integrative approach in my practice and draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, such as, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Imago Relationship Therapy, Talk Therapy, and Narrative Therapy combined with a Strength Based Approach.
Welcome to my site. I hope you find this information helpful and informative. My passion is to assist and empower others on their journey of self-discovery. I am a Masters of Social Work (MSW) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. My approach is one of transformation through non-judgment, listening, support, empathy, and insight. I operate from a Trauma-Informed Approach (TIA) in acknowledging the sensitive concerns that exist within the clients that I work with.
Working from a trauma-informed, attachment-based lens, I utilize an integrative approach in my practice and draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, such as, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Imago Relationship Therapy, Talk Therapy, and Narrative Therapy combined with a Strength Based Approach.
Welcome to my site. I hope you find this information helpful and informative. My passion is to assist and empower others on their journey of self-discovery. I am a Masters of Social Work (MSW) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. My approach is one of transformation through non-judgment, listening, support, empathy, and insight. I operate from a Trauma-Informed Approach (TIA) in acknowledging the sensitive concerns that exist within the clients that I work with.
(249) 202-2298 View (249) 202-2298
Photo of Jeff White - Life And Relationship Coach
Jeff White - Life And Relationship Coach
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M5M
My background in psychology and corporate training, accreditation in Imago & Gottman Method Couples therapy, personal involvement in Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, and especially my own relationships have all helped me become an effective coach.
We can’t be on top of everything - so that’s why reaching out and asking for help is healthy and necessary. In business, love or life, it’s hard to show up well if you aren’t aware of your unconscious habits. I’ll help you get a better understanding of yourself and the people around you so you can create the life you want to live. I also work with couples to figure out what’s getting in the way of your connection.
My background in psychology and corporate training, accreditation in Imago & Gottman Method Couples therapy, personal involvement in Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, and especially my own relationships have all helped me become an effective coach.
We can’t be on top of everything - so that’s why reaching out and asking for help is healthy and necessary. In business, love or life, it’s hard to show up well if you aren’t aware of your unconscious habits. I’ll help you get a better understanding of yourself and the people around you so you can create the life you want to live. I also work with couples to figure out what’s getting in the way of your connection.
(647) 697-4185 View (647) 697-4185
Photo of Wendy Mae Kirk, MDiv, RP, CIT, RLT, Registered Psychotherapist
Wendy Mae Kirk
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, CIT, RLT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thornhill, ON L3T
I am a Sex Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist, Certified Imago Therapist and Relational Life Therapist. I have been working with clients of various ages since 1996, providing support, direction, helping them make good decisions for their lives, as well as helping them heal from painful experiences in the past. I design a personalized, bespoke program of therapy, tailored to each person's individual needs. I work with clients that want to move forward into a healthier way of living, relating and becoming the best that they can be. I have personal experience with spoon therapy. For more information, please visit my website.
I am a Sex Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist, Certified Imago Therapist and Relational Life Therapist. I have been working with clients of various ages since 1996, providing support, direction, helping them make good decisions for their lives, as well as helping them heal from painful experiences in the past. I design a personalized, bespoke program of therapy, tailored to each person's individual needs. I work with clients that want to move forward into a healthier way of living, relating and becoming the best that they can be. I have personal experience with spoon therapy. For more information, please visit my website.
(647) 931-9528 View (647) 931-9528
Photo of Catherine Wood - Catherine Wood, PhD, RP Psychotherapy, RP, PhD, Registered Psychotherapist
Catherine Wood, PhD, RP Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, PhD
Verified Verified
North York, ON M4R
I am certified as an Imago Therapist, and have extensive training in EFT (Emotion Focused Couples Therapy).
You want to improve your life in some way, and this is the privilege I have in working with clients everyday. Whether you want to feel happier, less anxious or upset, want to strive for goals and dreams, or want something to improve about your romantic relationship (you'd like to have one, you'd like to improve yours, you'd like to get over one), I'd love to help you with this. I am a skilled individual and couples counselor, having devoted training and expertise to this. Allow yourself to reach out and safely achieve your goals. My inclusive practice welcomes adult individuals and couples, heterosexual or gay, and all cultures.
I am certified as an Imago Therapist, and have extensive training in EFT (Emotion Focused Couples Therapy).
You want to improve your life in some way, and this is the privilege I have in working with clients everyday. Whether you want to feel happier, less anxious or upset, want to strive for goals and dreams, or want something to improve about your romantic relationship (you'd like to have one, you'd like to improve yours, you'd like to get over one), I'd love to help you with this. I am a skilled individual and couples counselor, having devoted training and expertise to this. Allow yourself to reach out and safely achieve your goals. My inclusive practice welcomes adult individuals and couples, heterosexual or gay, and all cultures.
(855) 979-7523 View (855) 979-7523
Photo of Homa Ansari, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Homa Ansari
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M3B
Approaches integrative approach to therapy utilizing several well-researched and highly recommended approaches including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - DBT- Imago Therapy -Acceptance and commitment Therapy (ACT) Gestalt Therapy -Schema Therapy (ST)- Eclectic Therapy -Play Therapy- Mindfulness.
Self-knowledge, including moods, emotions, finding the roots of some habits, thoughts and attitudes,behaviors and reactions, going through the path of growth and evolution in the journey of life, increasing life skills, creating effective relationships with people around you, choosing a spouse and life partner, having Mental health and life skills along with peace and tranquility, effective decision-making, parenting and safe conversation skills can be achieved along with determined and effective companionship and patient facilitation.I will be an effective companion in this way. I have a postdoctoral position as a family counseling
Approaches integrative approach to therapy utilizing several well-researched and highly recommended approaches including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - DBT- Imago Therapy -Acceptance and commitment Therapy (ACT) Gestalt Therapy -Schema Therapy (ST)- Eclectic Therapy -Play Therapy- Mindfulness.
Self-knowledge, including moods, emotions, finding the roots of some habits, thoughts and attitudes,behaviors and reactions, going through the path of growth and evolution in the journey of life, increasing life skills, creating effective relationships with people around you, choosing a spouse and life partner, having Mental health and life skills along with peace and tranquility, effective decision-making, parenting and safe conversation skills can be achieved along with determined and effective companionship and patient facilitation.I will be an effective companion in this way. I have a postdoctoral position as a family counseling
(365) 363-2324 View (365) 363-2324
Photo of Arthi Bala Specialized Couples And Sex Therapy, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Arthi Bala Specialized Couples And Sex Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2M  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Do you feel Lack of Libido, Sexual Pain, Infertility, Shame or Guilt around your Sexuality? Are you and your partner stuck in a pattern of negative communication , lack of empathy & respect for each other ? Together we can create healthy , meangful deep realtionships and work through any sexual issues you may have that is holding you from living in your true expresssion of yourself.
Accepting new clients. Do you feel Lack of Libido, Sexual Pain, Infertility, Shame or Guilt around your Sexuality? Are you and your partner stuck in a pattern of negative communication , lack of empathy & respect for each other ? Together we can create healthy , meangful deep realtionships and work through any sexual issues you may have that is holding you from living in your true expresssion of yourself.
(226) 780-6672 View (226) 780-6672
Photo of Ida Civiero (She-Her), MSW
Ida Civiero (She-Her)
MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6A  (Online Only)
I am the 2012 Neinstein award winner for my trauma recovery work. I have been educated, trained & experienced in using multiple therapeutic interventions. I work with diverse human beings with diverse mental wellness challenges. ​ I practice compassionate inquiry with an anti-oppressive edge. I am unconventional & non-traditional. I value transparency, which means I practice with honesty & sincerity & honour how you show up. I assist in eliminating your self-doubt by guiding you to an understanding of the roots of blame, shame & guilt in your familial & social conditioning & how these manifest in “dis ease” in the mind & body.
I am the 2012 Neinstein award winner for my trauma recovery work. I have been educated, trained & experienced in using multiple therapeutic interventions. I work with diverse human beings with diverse mental wellness challenges. ​ I practice compassionate inquiry with an anti-oppressive edge. I am unconventional & non-traditional. I value transparency, which means I practice with honesty & sincerity & honour how you show up. I assist in eliminating your self-doubt by guiding you to an understanding of the roots of blame, shame & guilt in your familial & social conditioning & how these manifest in “dis ease” in the mind & body.
(226) 796-5267 View (226) 796-5267
Photo of Gui Mansilla, Lawyer, MDiv, RP CRPO, Registered Psychotherapist
Gui Mansilla
Registered Psychotherapist, Lawyer, MDiv, RP CRPO
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M9M
Are you tired of surviving and ready to recover your thriving capabilities? Do you find yourself lacking motivation or inspiration to act upon your dreams? Do you find that you have no dreams or can't seem to find a compelling future to move towards? Is your past preventing you from thoroughly enjoying your present? I have more than 17 thousand hours of direct client contact and decades of experience in the field. I am creative, compassionate, and resourceful and have created a "toolbox" of evidence-based methods to achieve positive and long-lasting change. I am confident that with commitment & perseverance, you can reach your goals
Are you tired of surviving and ready to recover your thriving capabilities? Do you find yourself lacking motivation or inspiration to act upon your dreams? Do you find that you have no dreams or can't seem to find a compelling future to move towards? Is your past preventing you from thoroughly enjoying your present? I have more than 17 thousand hours of direct client contact and decades of experience in the field. I am creative, compassionate, and resourceful and have created a "toolbox" of evidence-based methods to achieve positive and long-lasting change. I am confident that with commitment & perseverance, you can reach your goals
(289) 210-6231 View (289) 210-6231

See more therapy options for Vaughan

Imago Counsellors

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-romanticising 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.