Imago Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Judith Ellen Rubin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Judith Ellen Rubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a seasoned psychotherapist. My work is depth oriented and solution focused. Often grief prevents reaching for support. A heart centered approach can allow the unfreezing and softening that makes therapy accessible. Regardless of the pain you are struggling through, meeting and talking together can determine weither we are a good fit. We can trust our process, to find a direction forward.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist. My work is depth oriented and solution focused. Often grief prevents reaching for support. A heart centered approach can allow the unfreezing and softening that makes therapy accessible. Regardless of the pain you are struggling through, meeting and talking together can determine weither we are a good fit. We can trust our process, to find a direction forward.
(415) 915-6743 View (415) 915-6743
Photo of Gillian Nathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Gillian Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have 30 years experience integrating numerous approaches, including Imago, Hoffman Process, Depth Hypnosis, Parts work, visualizations and communication techniques, as well as drawing on my decades of yoga and mindfulness practice.
My office is a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration, healing, and change. Together we address challenges by identifying current strengths and adding new tools and resources. My perspective is compassion and strengths-based.
I have 30 years experience integrating numerous approaches, including Imago, Hoffman Process, Depth Hypnosis, Parts work, visualizations and communication techniques, as well as drawing on my decades of yoga and mindfulness practice.
My office is a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration, healing, and change. Together we address challenges by identifying current strengths and adding new tools and resources. My perspective is compassion and strengths-based.
(415) 726-2811 View (415) 726-2811
Photo of Araceli Pimentel - Araceli Pimentel: EMDR and IFS Intensives, Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Araceli Pimentel: EMDR and IFS Intensives
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings, build effective communication, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and relationship concerns.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings, build effective communication, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and relationship concerns.
(323) 312-3401 View (323) 312-3401
Photo of Adrian Rivera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Adrian Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
(510) 901-5736 View (510) 901-5736
Photo of Molly Paris, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Molly Paris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there! I am so honored you have chosen to take the brave leap to begin therapy. As your therapist, I aim to create a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your inner world, heal from past experiences, and grow into the life you envision. I strive to help you uncover the roots of your experiences and foster meaningful change. Together, we will navigate the complexities of your emotions, relationships, and goals with warmth, understanding, and collaboration. Wherever you are on your journey, I am here to walk alongside you!
Hi there! I am so honored you have chosen to take the brave leap to begin therapy. As your therapist, I aim to create a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your inner world, heal from past experiences, and grow into the life you envision. I strive to help you uncover the roots of your experiences and foster meaningful change. Together, we will navigate the complexities of your emotions, relationships, and goals with warmth, understanding, and collaboration. Wherever you are on your journey, I am here to walk alongside you!
(619) 658-8738 View (619) 658-8738
Photo of Sandrah Susan Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Sandrah Susan Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am empathic and warm yet direct and challenging in our collaborative relationship. I provide a safe harbor from which to work and together we will identify ways in which your past is preventing you from living the life you want. Some of my hopes are that your tendency to be self-critical will soften and that you will become compassionate towards yourself; that you will gain positive coping skills to deal with stress and anxiety and to decrease perfectionistic tendencies and that you accomplish the goals that you have set for yourself. I will be your guide in this process.
I am empathic and warm yet direct and challenging in our collaborative relationship. I provide a safe harbor from which to work and together we will identify ways in which your past is preventing you from living the life you want. Some of my hopes are that your tendency to be self-critical will soften and that you will become compassionate towards yourself; that you will gain positive coping skills to deal with stress and anxiety and to decrease perfectionistic tendencies and that you accomplish the goals that you have set for yourself. I will be your guide in this process.
(415) 965-8637 View (415) 965-8637
Photo of Diana Urman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Diana Urman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
For couples, I use emotionally focused therapy (EFT) and Imago to rebuild connection.
Struggling with desire, orgasm, sexual pain, or intimacy challenges? You deserve a specialist — not a generalist. I'm Dr. Diana Urman, one of few therapists in California with a PhD in Human Sexuality, 20+ years in sex therapy, and experience as an Oregon Supreme Court expert witness. I help individuals and couples move from shame to authentic sexual confidence.
For couples, I use emotionally focused therapy (EFT) and Imago to rebuild connection.
Struggling with desire, orgasm, sexual pain, or intimacy challenges? You deserve a specialist — not a generalist. I'm Dr. Diana Urman, one of few therapists in California with a PhD in Human Sexuality, 20+ years in sex therapy, and experience as an Oregon Supreme Court expert witness. I help individuals and couples move from shame to authentic sexual confidence.
(415) 480-2924 View (415) 480-2924
Photo of Debbie Cherry, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Debbie Cherry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Francisco, CA 94131
My approach integrates strategies from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Imago Relationship Therapy, and the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy.
When small disagreements turn into BIG arguments, expert guidance can help you break painful patterns—not just talk about them. I’ve helped 1,000s of couples stop repeating the same fights by learning simple communication tools (even when emotions run high). I work with tech leaders, founders, and couples navigating high stress, parenting, and burnout. Don’t let defensiveness stand between you and your partner. NEW relationship skills grounded in attachment science and proven research are far more effective than rehashing the past. If you’re ready to get back on the same page... Email me to book a complimentary consultation call.
My approach integrates strategies from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Imago Relationship Therapy, and the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy.
When small disagreements turn into BIG arguments, expert guidance can help you break painful patterns—not just talk about them. I’ve helped 1,000s of couples stop repeating the same fights by learning simple communication tools (even when emotions run high). I work with tech leaders, founders, and couples navigating high stress, parenting, and burnout. Don’t let defensiveness stand between you and your partner. NEW relationship skills grounded in attachment science and proven research are far more effective than rehashing the past. If you’re ready to get back on the same page... Email me to book a complimentary consultation call.
(415) 915-2225 View (415) 915-2225
Photo of Jose E Trejo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, C-PST
Jose E Trejo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, C-PST
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Stress, anxiety, depression! When life becomes difficult managing our mental health is as well. I can help! With 19 years of experience I work with couples and individuals that need help. With relationships I work to improve communication, reconnecting, turning arguments into understanding, increase intimacy, and healing (incl infidelity). With individuals we learn to manage our mood, balance out our lives, obtain goals and make ourselves a priority. I am an AASECT and IAPST certified sex therapist. I treat issues related to functioning, desire, connection and creating a sex life we enjoy, deserve and look forward to!
Stress, anxiety, depression! When life becomes difficult managing our mental health is as well. I can help! With 19 years of experience I work with couples and individuals that need help. With relationships I work to improve communication, reconnecting, turning arguments into understanding, increase intimacy, and healing (incl infidelity). With individuals we learn to manage our mood, balance out our lives, obtain goals and make ourselves a priority. I am an AASECT and IAPST certified sex therapist. I treat issues related to functioning, desire, connection and creating a sex life we enjoy, deserve and look forward to!
(415) 430-9121 View (415) 430-9121
Photo of Jennifer Nasser - Honeycomb Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Honeycomb Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
(415) 338-9366 View (415) 338-9366
Photo of Rebekah B. Tinker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Rebekah B. Tinker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117
I believe the therapeutic relationship is built from trust and sincerity. My hope is to hold space for a genuine connection that fosters dynamic self reflection. Looking deeper into the layers of experience that inform our internal gaze and external lens, and what we intrinsically value and believe. Whether you are looking to unravel patterns of codependency, improve communication with your partner(s), or navigate through body shame and disordered eating, I see opportunity for clarity and resolve.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is built from trust and sincerity. My hope is to hold space for a genuine connection that fosters dynamic self reflection. Looking deeper into the layers of experience that inform our internal gaze and external lens, and what we intrinsically value and believe. Whether you are looking to unravel patterns of codependency, improve communication with your partner(s), or navigate through body shame and disordered eating, I see opportunity for clarity and resolve.
(415) 534-4113 View (415) 534-4113
Photo of Alexandra Haas, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Alexandra Haas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I specialize in attachment theory, addiction/substance related issues, & becoming aligned with your authentic self. I also enjoy working with couples wanting to strengthen communication or rebuild trust within their relationship. Our parents/ earliest caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & we will work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.
I specialize in attachment theory, addiction/substance related issues, & becoming aligned with your authentic self. I also enjoy working with couples wanting to strengthen communication or rebuild trust within their relationship. Our parents/ earliest caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & we will work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.
(415) 569-2869 View (415) 569-2869
Photo of Dr. Joanna Renee Fassl, Marriage & Family Therapist, Joanna Fassl, LMFT, DC, MA
Dr. Joanna Renee Fassl
Marriage & Family Therapist, Joanna Fassl, LMFT, DC, MA
San Francisco, CA 94117
My clients seek a therapy that engages beyond words, enlivening the body, heart, and mind to address chronic anxiety, depression, or anger, and the feeling of being stuck in rigid patterns. I work at the intersection of body and psyche, lovingly chipping away at hardened barriers while inviting steady, free, authentic expression. Sessions integrate biopsychosocial and intersectional frameworks, honoring the whole self while considering the influence of our environments.
My clients seek a therapy that engages beyond words, enlivening the body, heart, and mind to address chronic anxiety, depression, or anger, and the feeling of being stuck in rigid patterns. I work at the intersection of body and psyche, lovingly chipping away at hardened barriers while inviting steady, free, authentic expression. Sessions integrate biopsychosocial and intersectional frameworks, honoring the whole self while considering the influence of our environments.
(415) 484-3881 View (415) 484-3881
Photo of Larisa Southerland, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Larisa Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been feeling extra anxious lately? Or like things feel more out of control now than they ever have before? If so, you’re not alone. With the increasing demands of day-to-day life, it’s no wonder more and more people are reaching out for help. Taking that first step can be daunting, but I’m here to lighten the load. I use a collaborative, integrative approach to help individuals and couples find their peace. I have extensive training and experience working with anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues.
Have you been feeling extra anxious lately? Or like things feel more out of control now than they ever have before? If so, you’re not alone. With the increasing demands of day-to-day life, it’s no wonder more and more people are reaching out for help. Taking that first step can be daunting, but I’m here to lighten the load. I use a collaborative, integrative approach to help individuals and couples find their peace. I have extensive training and experience working with anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues.
(323) 894-0768 View (323) 894-0768
Photo of Shena Jensen, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Shena Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I have 20 yrs of experience, first as a coach which shaped my goal and results oriented approach, followed by over 10 years of in-depth training on Somatic Experiencing, mindfulness, IFS, and a wide range of trauma and attachment based methods including EFT, Gottman, Imago, NVC, EMDR, & ACT.
I specialize in working with people who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or distressed in career, life situation, or around their relationships, whether with a significant other, family, friends, or social situations. Often this involves working with challenging relationship dynamics, insecurities, sense of self, sense of purpose, or past trauma. My approach combines my experience in both psychotherapy and coaching and is direct, compassionate, and transformative. I utilize the proven research focusing on the neurobiology of attachment along with a holistic toolbox including mindfulness and somatic (body oriented) awareness.
I have 20 yrs of experience, first as a coach which shaped my goal and results oriented approach, followed by over 10 years of in-depth training on Somatic Experiencing, mindfulness, IFS, and a wide range of trauma and attachment based methods including EFT, Gottman, Imago, NVC, EMDR, & ACT.
I specialize in working with people who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or distressed in career, life situation, or around their relationships, whether with a significant other, family, friends, or social situations. Often this involves working with challenging relationship dynamics, insecurities, sense of self, sense of purpose, or past trauma. My approach combines my experience in both psychotherapy and coaching and is direct, compassionate, and transformative. I utilize the proven research focusing on the neurobiology of attachment along with a holistic toolbox including mindfulness and somatic (body oriented) awareness.
(415) 446-1053 View (415) 446-1053
Photo of Karen Chan - Karen Chan | Therapy for Asian, Queer & Poly folx, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Karen Chan | Therapy for Asian, Queer & Poly folx
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
13 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. I specialize in working with Asians, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, & poly individuals & couples navigating anxiety, depression, grief, relational conflicts, intergenerational trauma, or exploring their sexuality, gender, polyamory, or identities. I have liberation & depth orientation, which means I listen deeply, attune to your social and historical context, and give attention to the parts of you that are often overlooked. Together, we’ll explore the root causes and meanings of your symptoms towards creating the life you truly desire.
Welcome. I specialize in working with Asians, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, & poly individuals & couples navigating anxiety, depression, grief, relational conflicts, intergenerational trauma, or exploring their sexuality, gender, polyamory, or identities. I have liberation & depth orientation, which means I listen deeply, attune to your social and historical context, and give attention to the parts of you that are often overlooked. Together, we’ll explore the root causes and meanings of your symptoms towards creating the life you truly desire.
(510) 431-2302 View (510) 431-2302
Photo of Elise Noland, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Elise Noland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
9 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Would you like to feel more connected to your true-self, and be yourself more with others within relationship? Let's collaborate in a process where we explore, uncover, and understand your experience. Through the process of looking with curiosity at what your patterns and feelings are trying to tell you, we can help find the real YOU that is trying to live more fully. I will hold your therapy with a calm, engaging, and dynamic presence, offering a combination of insight, empathy, and tools that can support you to move through the tough parts of life and relationship.
Would you like to feel more connected to your true-self, and be yourself more with others within relationship? Let's collaborate in a process where we explore, uncover, and understand your experience. Through the process of looking with curiosity at what your patterns and feelings are trying to tell you, we can help find the real YOU that is trying to live more fully. I will hold your therapy with a calm, engaging, and dynamic presence, offering a combination of insight, empathy, and tools that can support you to move through the tough parts of life and relationship.
(628) 600-2971 View (628) 600-2971
Photo of Ellen B Klyce, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Ellen B Klyce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
If your world seems off, you may feel caught in something, that is confusing, possibly contagious to you. It is good idea to talk about it in therapy. How will you navigate the effects of this current environmental influences? It is hard to make sense of it, lately. Don't keep it in your head. We all have doubts, small or big, and they can persist. I will guide you away from self-sabotaging thought patterns. There are a few ways to find your inner strengths again. I work with both individuals and couples Whether addressing long-avoided topics, like financial stress or strengthening communication, or just living your life.
If your world seems off, you may feel caught in something, that is confusing, possibly contagious to you. It is good idea to talk about it in therapy. How will you navigate the effects of this current environmental influences? It is hard to make sense of it, lately. Don't keep it in your head. We all have doubts, small or big, and they can persist. I will guide you away from self-sabotaging thought patterns. There are a few ways to find your inner strengths again. I work with both individuals and couples Whether addressing long-avoided topics, like financial stress or strengthening communication, or just living your life.
(510) 768-7175 View (510) 768-7175
Photo of Kavitha Goldowitz, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Kavitha Goldowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 15 years experience working with individuals and couples. My area of expertise includes working with ethnic and multicultural population and addressing issues related to couples in inter-racial marriages, struggles with cultural assimilation and family relationship dynamics. I speak 5 languages and I am keenly aware of the specific issues faced by Indian-Americans in particular and Asian Americans in general, especially with regards to struggles with personal and cultural identity. I offer brief and long term models of therapy via telehealth/online medium.
I have over 15 years experience working with individuals and couples. My area of expertise includes working with ethnic and multicultural population and addressing issues related to couples in inter-racial marriages, struggles with cultural assimilation and family relationship dynamics. I speak 5 languages and I am keenly aware of the specific issues faced by Indian-Americans in particular and Asian Americans in general, especially with regards to struggles with personal and cultural identity. I offer brief and long term models of therapy via telehealth/online medium.
(707) 549-6681 View (707) 549-6681
Photo of Sandrah Susan Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Sandrah Susan Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have over 40 years of experience helping people face challenges in their lives including loss, adoption related issues, addiction, relationships/couples, life threatening illness, chronic pain, anxiety, mood and bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, divorce, and other life transitions. I am a warm and caring therapist who is also able to be direct when needed. From the moment you enter my office I do all I can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively with whatever issues you are facing in your life today. You will always be treated with respect and compassion throughout our work together.
I have over 40 years of experience helping people face challenges in their lives including loss, adoption related issues, addiction, relationships/couples, life threatening illness, chronic pain, anxiety, mood and bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, divorce, and other life transitions. I am a warm and caring therapist who is also able to be direct when needed. From the moment you enter my office I do all I can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively with whatever issues you are facing in your life today. You will always be treated with respect and compassion throughout our work together.
(415) 687-0429 View (415) 687-0429

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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.