Imago Therapists in Guelph, ON

Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H  (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.
(236) 239-5085 View (236) 239-5085
Photo of Leslie Dahlinger, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leslie Dahlinger
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of providing psychotherapy services, I can help you get to the core of your issues. I have a down to earth, informal style of communicating and am told I am easy to open up to. Over my career I have worked with all genders, sexual orientations, and people from a variety of religious, racial and cultural backgrounds.
With over 30 years of providing psychotherapy services, I can help you get to the core of your issues. I have a down to earth, informal style of communicating and am told I am easy to open up to. Over my career I have worked with all genders, sexual orientations, and people from a variety of religious, racial and cultural backgrounds.
(226) 458-4101 View (226) 458-4101
Photo of Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G  (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
(867) 731-0384 View (867) 731-0384
Photo of Angela Gray - Codependency Self-Esteem Anxiety Grief, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Angela Gray - Codependency Self-Esteem Anxiety Grief
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I embody a relational approach to therapy with an emphasis on caring over curing. I view each of my clients not as a problem to solve, but as a person with a sacred story to witness. I believe you are the expert of your own story, and my role is to join you as a curious, empathetic sojourner. Together we will co-create a space of safety where deep healing and transformation can occur. I practice a self-psychological therapeutic modality based on the principle that the relationship we build together as therapist and client can become a profound source of healing.
I embody a relational approach to therapy with an emphasis on caring over curing. I view each of my clients not as a problem to solve, but as a person with a sacred story to witness. I believe you are the expert of your own story, and my role is to join you as a curious, empathetic sojourner. Together we will co-create a space of safety where deep healing and transformation can occur. I practice a self-psychological therapeutic modality based on the principle that the relationship we build together as therapist and client can become a profound source of healing.
(226) 799-9490 View (226) 799-9490
Photo of Natalia Brajak, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Natalia Brajak
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
I work with adults who want freedom from negative patterns and who want to get to the root of repetitive reactivity and triggers. They want calm and peace. They want help with healthy boundaries, anxiety, self-worth, depression, life direction, co-dependency, communication, addiction, relationships (with self, the Divine, life partner, ex-partner, children, family, co-workers), emotional regulation, grief, loss/divorce, chronic pain, parenting, spiritual growth and psychedelic integration. Carrying the past makes current life difficult. Helping clients accept the past, learn from it and then let it go is what I love doing best.
I work with adults who want freedom from negative patterns and who want to get to the root of repetitive reactivity and triggers. They want calm and peace. They want help with healthy boundaries, anxiety, self-worth, depression, life direction, co-dependency, communication, addiction, relationships (with self, the Divine, life partner, ex-partner, children, family, co-workers), emotional regulation, grief, loss/divorce, chronic pain, parenting, spiritual growth and psychedelic integration. Carrying the past makes current life difficult. Helping clients accept the past, learn from it and then let it go is what I love doing best.
(226) 406-5974 View (226) 406-5974
Photo of Atlas Therapy - Cambridge, MA, RP, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Atlas Therapy - Cambridge
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1C
Now Accepting New Clients. At Atlas Therapy, we work with individuals, children, couples, and families to help them heal, grow, and thrive. We all face challenges in our lives and deserve support, compassion, and understanding. Together we work collaboratively by building on your existing strengths, improving your relationships and understanding and replacing unhelpful or self-destructive behaviours. We offer a warm, non-judgmental space for you to navigate life’s difficulties, cope with stress, and create lasting change in ways that are important to you.
Now Accepting New Clients. At Atlas Therapy, we work with individuals, children, couples, and families to help them heal, grow, and thrive. We all face challenges in our lives and deserve support, compassion, and understanding. Together we work collaboratively by building on your existing strengths, improving your relationships and understanding and replacing unhelpful or self-destructive behaviours. We offer a warm, non-judgmental space for you to navigate life’s difficulties, cope with stress, and create lasting change in ways that are important to you.
(548) 485-5865 View (548) 485-5865
Photo of Tiffany Lazic, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Tiffany Lazic
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1C  (Online Only)
Within each of us lies the vision and hope for the life we want to live. Yet, we can feel overwhelmed by inner or outer challenges, fears, negative beliefs, low self-esteem, anxiety or depression. In many years of practice, I have seen the resilience of the human spirit. As a Spiritual Psychotherapist, I work with traditional approaches, as well as those rooted in Transpersonal Psychology, Archetypal Psychology and Shamanism which recognize the power and strength inherent within to facilitate change. My aim is to act as guide as clients address past pain and present circumstances that limit the ability to live a life in full bloom.
Within each of us lies the vision and hope for the life we want to live. Yet, we can feel overwhelmed by inner or outer challenges, fears, negative beliefs, low self-esteem, anxiety or depression. In many years of practice, I have seen the resilience of the human spirit. As a Spiritual Psychotherapist, I work with traditional approaches, as well as those rooted in Transpersonal Psychology, Archetypal Psychology and Shamanism which recognize the power and strength inherent within to facilitate change. My aim is to act as guide as clients address past pain and present circumstances that limit the ability to live a life in full bloom.
(226) 841-8226 View (226) 841-8226
Photo of Yana Hoffman - Yana Hoffman-Letting Relationship Work, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Yana Hoffman-Letting Relationship Work
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1L  (Online Only)
Life isn't always easy. We get hurt, confused, misunderstood. People we count on are not always there for us in times of need. Some of us de-stress with connection, some by being alone. This conflict can leave us feeling abandoned or overwhelmed. Therapy uses curiosity about ourselves to become more resilient, self aware, & relational. Not all problems get solved by random talking. My tools help you get unstuck and deepen your sense of intimacy with yourself and others. Your first time with therapy can be comfortable and productive. Check out the articles I've published in Psychology Today and call for a no obligation consult.
Life isn't always easy. We get hurt, confused, misunderstood. People we count on are not always there for us in times of need. Some of us de-stress with connection, some by being alone. This conflict can leave us feeling abandoned or overwhelmed. Therapy uses curiosity about ourselves to become more resilient, self aware, & relational. Not all problems get solved by random talking. My tools help you get unstuck and deepen your sense of intimacy with yourself and others. Your first time with therapy can be comfortable and productive. Check out the articles I've published in Psychology Today and call for a no obligation consult.
(647) 977-5716 View (647) 977-5716
Photo of Darion Brenner, MA, RP, CRPO, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Darion Brenner
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CRPO, OAMHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B
Currently accepting new in-person and virtual clients! Life is a journey that no one should walk alone. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, emotionally or physically exhausted, hurt, or isolated, I am here to walk with you. I strive to foster a compassionate, warm, and non-judgemental atmosphere for you to explore your current challenges. Together, we will identify your goals, learn your strengths, and develop an individualized treatment plan that feels good to you. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to counselling, which is why I use a client-centred, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach to therapy.
Currently accepting new in-person and virtual clients! Life is a journey that no one should walk alone. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, emotionally or physically exhausted, hurt, or isolated, I am here to walk with you. I strive to foster a compassionate, warm, and non-judgemental atmosphere for you to explore your current challenges. Together, we will identify your goals, learn your strengths, and develop an individualized treatment plan that feels good to you. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to counselling, which is why I use a client-centred, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach to therapy.
(226) 455-4091 View (226) 455-4091

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shelley Atkinson, Registered Psychotherapist
Shelley Atkinson
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, ON N3C
How incredible would it be to live with purpose and meaning, to be the co-creator of your life? Working alongside you, I help you explore how you may be walking and showing up in the world that doesn’t allow your authentic, true self to emerge. By shining the light on shadows that may be causing you pain, I help you see your situation in a clear light, illuminating thoughts, behaviours and deeper patterns that you may have been carrying for a long time. I help you make peace with the layers, feelings and pain from the past, and empower you to recognize your freedom and ability to chose your own path, embracing the life you want.
How incredible would it be to live with purpose and meaning, to be the co-creator of your life? Working alongside you, I help you explore how you may be walking and showing up in the world that doesn’t allow your authentic, true self to emerge. By shining the light on shadows that may be causing you pain, I help you see your situation in a clear light, illuminating thoughts, behaviours and deeper patterns that you may have been carrying for a long time. I help you make peace with the layers, feelings and pain from the past, and empower you to recognize your freedom and ability to chose your own path, embracing the life you want.
(226) 840-6269 View (226) 840-6269

Online Therapists

Photo of Sonya Gotziaman, RP, MMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Sonya Gotziaman
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MMFT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, MMFT, Sex Therapist and Certified Imago Relationship Therapist working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents in private practice for over 25 years. I worked in Toronto for over 25 years and now see clients online and will start to see clients in Winnipeg and Toronto again once Covid allows. Please visit my website sonyagotziaman.com to learn more about me.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, MMFT, Sex Therapist and Certified Imago Relationship Therapist working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents in private practice for over 25 years. I worked in Toronto for over 25 years and now see clients online and will start to see clients in Winnipeg and Toronto again once Covid allows. Please visit my website sonyagotziaman.com to learn more about me.
(416) 459-8483 View (416) 459-8483
Photo of Danielle McCallum, BA, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Danielle McCallum
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9H
Danielle McCallum is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Danielle has a Masters of Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. Danielle has been trained in a number of specific modalities but takes an eclectic, client-centered approach to treatment. She uses a variety of modalities including: emotion focused, mindfulness based interventions, trauma informed practices, CBT, DBT, Family-based, Emotion Coaching for parents, Gottman and Imago for Couples therapy.
Danielle McCallum is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Danielle has a Masters of Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. Danielle has been trained in a number of specific modalities but takes an eclectic, client-centered approach to treatment. She uses a variety of modalities including: emotion focused, mindfulness based interventions, trauma informed practices, CBT, DBT, Family-based, Emotion Coaching for parents, Gottman and Imago for Couples therapy.
(289) 796-1148 View (289) 796-1148
Photo of Patricia Laraia, BA, ExAT, IRT
Patricia Laraia
BA, ExAT, IRT
Verified Verified
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
Learning Imago Dialogue with your partner helps you to retrain your thinking, learning to access parts of your brain that are not reactionary, that instead bring calmness.
You deserve to be loved fully! Can you imagine what your life would look life if you felt truly heard, truly seen? Using the work of Harville Hendrix & Hellen LaKelly Hunt, I teach you how to "Get The Love You Want," based on their work in the book by the same name. Having been a therapist for many years, I can truly say that this is the most simple system for learning to achieve relational harmony, this quickly, that I have come accross. Understanding deeply the pain that is part of the human experience, I teach you Imago Dialogue Skills to transform your self and your relationship with this most elegant communication system.
Learning Imago Dialogue with your partner helps you to retrain your thinking, learning to access parts of your brain that are not reactionary, that instead bring calmness.
You deserve to be loved fully! Can you imagine what your life would look life if you felt truly heard, truly seen? Using the work of Harville Hendrix & Hellen LaKelly Hunt, I teach you how to "Get The Love You Want," based on their work in the book by the same name. Having been a therapist for many years, I can truly say that this is the most simple system for learning to achieve relational harmony, this quickly, that I have come accross. Understanding deeply the pain that is part of the human experience, I teach you Imago Dialogue Skills to transform your self and your relationship with this most elegant communication system.
(289) 512-2415 View (289) 512-2415
Photo of Jeannie Bishop, BA, BSW, MSW , CSAT, Registered Social Worker
Jeannie Bishop
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW , CSAT
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
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 Pam Santon, MSW, RSW, RMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pam Santon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, RSW, RMFT
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8S
Waitlist for new clients
My specialized trainings are in the following areas: Couple and Family Therapy (Attachment Models,Intergenerational Family Therapy, Gottman Model, Imago Therapy, CBT, Internal Family Systems and Relational Life Therapy www.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in private practice since 1983. Couples and families are a primary focus of mine including those struggling with issues of life transitions, mental health, sexuality, sexual compulsive disorders, substance and process addictions, as well as emotional and physical affairs. I am trained in systemic models of interventions that allow for a dual focus on the needs of the individual as well as those of the relationship. I am an Approved Supervisor with AAMFT which affords me the privilege of supervising psychotherapists and clinicians in the community interested in systemic models.
My specialized trainings are in the following areas: Couple and Family Therapy (Attachment Models,Intergenerational Family Therapy, Gottman Model, Imago Therapy, CBT, Internal Family Systems and Relational Life Therapy www.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in private practice since 1983. Couples and families are a primary focus of mine including those struggling with issues of life transitions, mental health, sexuality, sexual compulsive disorders, substance and process addictions, as well as emotional and physical affairs. I am trained in systemic models of interventions that allow for a dual focus on the needs of the individual as well as those of the relationship. I am an Approved Supervisor with AAMFT which affords me the privilege of supervising psychotherapists and clinicians in the community interested in systemic models.
(888) 372-0165 View (888) 372-0165
Photo of Victoria Spataro, BA, BED, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Victoria Spataro
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BED, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
Victoria is a trained Imago Relationship Therapist, EMDR therapist, Brain Spotting therapist and Reunification therapist.
Victoria is a Registered Psychotherapist who has completed her Masters of Counselling Psychology. With years of experience as an educator, Victoria has an authentic way of connecting with families, couples and children. She is highly empathetic and dedicates her time to understand each clients’ perspectives, needs and experiences. Her purpose is to guide clients to evolve, to heal and become empowered to be the best version of themselves that they can be.
Victoria is a trained Imago Relationship Therapist, EMDR therapist, Brain Spotting therapist and Reunification therapist.
Victoria is a Registered Psychotherapist who has completed her Masters of Counselling Psychology. With years of experience as an educator, Victoria has an authentic way of connecting with families, couples and children. She is highly empathetic and dedicates her time to understand each clients’ perspectives, needs and experiences. Her purpose is to guide clients to evolve, to heal and become empowered to be the best version of themselves that they can be.
View
Photo of Jeff White - Life And Relationship Coach
Jeff White - Life And Relationship Coach
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4R
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
North York, ON M3A
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 Amanda Youssef - Valley Connections Counselling, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Valley Connections Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Dundas, ON L9H
We offer CBT, EMDR, IFS, EFT, DBT, MBCT, MI, Imago Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
Valley Connections Counselling is a Psychotherapy practice with clinics in Dundas and Burlington. We offer counselling for adults, children, adolescents, families and couples. Our fees are often covered by extended healthcare plans. We are a team of Registered Psychotherapists, Child Life Specialists, and Counselling Interns, offering services in person and virtually. We emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship and we provide a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive counselling environment.
We offer CBT, EMDR, IFS, EFT, DBT, MBCT, MI, Imago Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
Valley Connections Counselling is a Psychotherapy practice with clinics in Dundas and Burlington. We offer counselling for adults, children, adolescents, families and couples. Our fees are often covered by extended healthcare plans. We are a team of Registered Psychotherapists, Child Life Specialists, and Counselling Interns, offering services in person and virtually. We emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship and we provide a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive counselling environment.
(289) 512-5085 View (289) 512-5085
Photo of Josie Marando, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Josie Marando
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M  (Online Only)
Josie holds training in other evidence based treatment approaches such as emotion focused therapy, imago therapy, solution-focused, mindfulness practices, and training in perinatal mood disorder.
Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and it can seem impossible and hard to carry forward. Josie provides therapy to treat anxiety, depression, loss and grief, relationship or family breakdown, or coping with stress. In addition she has special interest in women experiencing mental health issues during pregnancy and postpartum. It was her experience in becoming a parent that lead her to specialize in supporting new parents in the adjustment to parenthood. She is passionate about helping clients thrive during these times, and times of life transitions (ex. new job, school, blended family..etc)
Josie holds training in other evidence based treatment approaches such as emotion focused therapy, imago therapy, solution-focused, mindfulness practices, and training in perinatal mood disorder.
Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and it can seem impossible and hard to carry forward. Josie provides therapy to treat anxiety, depression, loss and grief, relationship or family breakdown, or coping with stress. In addition she has special interest in women experiencing mental health issues during pregnancy and postpartum. It was her experience in becoming a parent that lead her to specialize in supporting new parents in the adjustment to parenthood. She is passionate about helping clients thrive during these times, and times of life transitions (ex. new job, school, blended family..etc)
(365) 800-6432 View (365) 800-6432

See more therapy options for Guelph

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.