Imago Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of Stuart J. Levinson, LCSW, P.C., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Stuart J. Levinson, LCSW, P.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
My specialty is psychodynamic psychotherapy, implementing methods that include Interpersonal Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR, IMAGO Therapy, and Supportive Milieu Therapy.
I have 23 years experience treating patients with anxiety issues, depression issues, O-CD issues, stage of life issues, stress reduction issues, marital/relationship issues, behavioral issues, mood disorders, career issues, self-esteem issues, anger management issues, adult ADHD, sexual identity issues, attachment issues, self-harm issues, and Bi-polar issues.
My specialty is psychodynamic psychotherapy, implementing methods that include Interpersonal Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR, IMAGO Therapy, and Supportive Milieu Therapy.
I have 23 years experience treating patients with anxiety issues, depression issues, O-CD issues, stage of life issues, stress reduction issues, marital/relationship issues, behavioral issues, mood disorders, career issues, self-esteem issues, anger management issues, adult ADHD, sexual identity issues, attachment issues, self-harm issues, and Bi-polar issues.
(212) 308-5363 View (212) 308-5363
Photo of Aditi Vidyasagar in New York, NY
Aditi Vidyasagar
EdM, MA, MSc, (Oxon), LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I am trained in and use various techniques such as REBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Imago, Structural Family Therapy etc.
Are you feeling unsatisfied in your life? Are you experiencing relationship issues or struggling with difficult feelings? Perhaps you are eager to break out of your situation and ready for a change - I can help. Working with me, you have someone on your side, who is completely invested in your personal success. I am non-judgmental, compassionate and always meet my clients exactly where they are. As your therapist, I will assist you in a journey to become your very best version of yourself. Together we will create a safe place to address issues that are holding you back from creating the life you want.
I am trained in and use various techniques such as REBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Imago, Structural Family Therapy etc.
Are you feeling unsatisfied in your life? Are you experiencing relationship issues or struggling with difficult feelings? Perhaps you are eager to break out of your situation and ready for a change - I can help. Working with me, you have someone on your side, who is completely invested in your personal success. I am non-judgmental, compassionate and always meet my clients exactly where they are. As your therapist, I will assist you in a journey to become your very best version of yourself. Together we will create a safe place to address issues that are holding you back from creating the life you want.
(916) 472-0015 View (916) 472-0015
Photo of Wendy Walker Cleary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Wendy Walker Cleary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
In my journey as an Imago-trained couples therapist, I work to help partners develop a deeper understanding and connection with each other.
With over two decades of dedicated practice in clinical social work, I bring a depth of understanding and compassion to my work with adults and couples. My areas of expertise include guiding individuals through the complexities of depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges. As a therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I journey with clients through the shadows of past traumas to the light of healing. Throughout this process, we gently unravel and reweave the tapestries of their lives, transforming pain into resilience.
In my journey as an Imago-trained couples therapist, I work to help partners develop a deeper understanding and connection with each other.
With over two decades of dedicated practice in clinical social work, I bring a depth of understanding and compassion to my work with adults and couples. My areas of expertise include guiding individuals through the complexities of depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges. As a therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I journey with clients through the shadows of past traumas to the light of healing. Throughout this process, we gently unravel and reweave the tapestries of their lives, transforming pain into resilience.
(332) 263-3852 View (332) 263-3852
Photo of Jennifer Stone-Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jennifer Stone-Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I also have specialized trainings in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Imago therapy, Sex therapy, and working with LGBTQ individuals and couples.
Therapy is about listening in-depth - to stories of our past and present, to our emotions, our affects, and our ways of relating. I create a safe space to listen carefully and empathically to help you understand how you have developed into who you are, and what gets in the way in the here and now. There are many ways to do this work. I believe the most important place to start in any modality is by establishing a solid therapeutic alliance. This relationship becomes a vehicle for exploring other ways of relating. I have a particular interest in childhood trauma, attachment, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.
I also have specialized trainings in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Imago therapy, Sex therapy, and working with LGBTQ individuals and couples.
Therapy is about listening in-depth - to stories of our past and present, to our emotions, our affects, and our ways of relating. I create a safe space to listen carefully and empathically to help you understand how you have developed into who you are, and what gets in the way in the here and now. There are many ways to do this work. I believe the most important place to start in any modality is by establishing a solid therapeutic alliance. This relationship becomes a vehicle for exploring other ways of relating. I have a particular interest in childhood trauma, attachment, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.
(646) 633-4208 View (646) 633-4208
Photo of Anita Gulati, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Anita Gulati, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I use Imago and EFT techniques to develop an understanding of personality traits, communication patterns and life goals that separate and divide you.
I am an accomplished Psychoanalyst, Pre-Marital Counselor and EFT Couples Therapist, and strive to help individuals and couples find their harmony and achieve their life goals. If you are struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety or depression, I look forward to helping you regain your sense of self. If you are a pre-marital couple looking for guidance in achieving marital harmony and success, I look forward to helping you. If you are a couple or family in conflict, I will help you to understand why your relationship has broken down, and how to rebuild safety, trust and healthy communication patterns.
I use Imago and EFT techniques to develop an understanding of personality traits, communication patterns and life goals that separate and divide you.
I am an accomplished Psychoanalyst, Pre-Marital Counselor and EFT Couples Therapist, and strive to help individuals and couples find their harmony and achieve their life goals. If you are struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety or depression, I look forward to helping you regain your sense of self. If you are a pre-marital couple looking for guidance in achieving marital harmony and success, I look forward to helping you. If you are a couple or family in conflict, I will help you to understand why your relationship has broken down, and how to rebuild safety, trust and healthy communication patterns.
(212) 247-3631 View (212) 247-3631
Photo of Roberto Ramos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Roberto Ramos, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I work with culturally diverse clients using the following : Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago relationship therapy, 12-Step, and EMDR interventions.
I welcome you on your path to personal growth. Self discovery is an important and very personal journey in ones life and requires careful consideration on how to navigate it. I provide a caring, safe and authentic connection in the therapeutic relationship. We work collaboratively to explore and resolve your concerns and improve the quality of your life. For some, the burden of the pain and suffering can be overwhelming. Together we will take steps in creating an awareness of your emotional world while we minimize your distress and maximize your pursuit of your life goals,
I work with culturally diverse clients using the following : Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago relationship therapy, 12-Step, and EMDR interventions.
I welcome you on your path to personal growth. Self discovery is an important and very personal journey in ones life and requires careful consideration on how to navigate it. I provide a caring, safe and authentic connection in the therapeutic relationship. We work collaboratively to explore and resolve your concerns and improve the quality of your life. For some, the burden of the pain and suffering can be overwhelming. Together we will take steps in creating an awareness of your emotional world while we minimize your distress and maximize your pursuit of your life goals,
(646) 759-2910 View (646) 759-2910
Photo of Rachel Moheban-Wachtel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Rachel Moheban-Wachtel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Imago Relationship Therapy.
If you and your partner are having the same fight over and over again, I specialize in helping couples stop their negative cycle and create healthier dynamics in their relationship. I am interactive with a box of tools and experience ready for people who are motivated to change their relationship. Whether you are tired of feeling stuck with your partner or having difficulty picking up the pieces from infidelity, I'm honored to begin your journey and helping you through the therapeutic process.
I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Imago Relationship Therapy.
If you and your partner are having the same fight over and over again, I specialize in helping couples stop their negative cycle and create healthier dynamics in their relationship. I am interactive with a box of tools and experience ready for people who are motivated to change their relationship. Whether you are tired of feeling stuck with your partner or having difficulty picking up the pieces from infidelity, I'm honored to begin your journey and helping you through the therapeutic process.
(855) 913-0261 View (855) 913-0261
Photo of Karen A Kurlander, Psychologist in New York, NY
Karen A Kurlander
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018
As a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I help couples build supportive relationships through safe communication in which feelings and needs are expressed in a way that can be heard and understood.
I have decades of experience helping individuals and couples achieve positive change through an engaged active process. I work with challenging situations like loss, career or relationship problems. I help people alleviate the effects of depression, anxiety, anger or low self esteem. I help clients manage the pressure of lives that are too busy, or get to know and express themselves more deeply. I help couples with problems that drive them apart, learn to communicate and resolves them. This enables them to rebuild loving suppportive relationships. Please visit my website to learn more about my work.
As a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I help couples build supportive relationships through safe communication in which feelings and needs are expressed in a way that can be heard and understood.
I have decades of experience helping individuals and couples achieve positive change through an engaged active process. I work with challenging situations like loss, career or relationship problems. I help people alleviate the effects of depression, anxiety, anger or low self esteem. I help clients manage the pressure of lives that are too busy, or get to know and express themselves more deeply. I help couples with problems that drive them apart, learn to communicate and resolves them. This enables them to rebuild loving suppportive relationships. Please visit my website to learn more about my work.
(351) 222-2624 View (351) 222-2624
Photo of Ivana Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Ivana Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
The Gottman method and imago therapy for couples and CBT for individuals.
I believe that positive reinforcement and approach in life can help people with individual and interpersonal challenges. I specialize in Marriage and Family therapy, couples counseling, anxiety, depression and anger management. I am a clinical fellow of The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, where I expand my professional expertise (in addition to my clinical work) to optimize therapeutic services provided to my patients.
The Gottman method and imago therapy for couples and CBT for individuals.
I believe that positive reinforcement and approach in life can help people with individual and interpersonal challenges. I specialize in Marriage and Family therapy, couples counseling, anxiety, depression and anger management. I am a clinical fellow of The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, where I expand my professional expertise (in addition to my clinical work) to optimize therapeutic services provided to my patients.
(646) 941-7906 View (646) 941-7906
Photo of Ken Hollander, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York, NY
Ken Hollander
Licensed Psychoanalyst, NCPsyA, CIRT, CGT, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and will work with you and your spouse or partner to shift how you listen and communicate with each other.
Limited space available for new couples clients. Do you want to improve your communications within a relationship or work on other couples issues? Are you experiencing anxiety or depression; or perhaps you're going through a life, relationship or career transition? Is there a part of you that wants to make things happen for yourself, to create change, to make things better? I am ready to provide a safe and empathetic space for you to explore the many possibilities that are out there for you, and "try on" new ways of experiencing yourself in the world.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and will work with you and your spouse or partner to shift how you listen and communicate with each other.
Limited space available for new couples clients. Do you want to improve your communications within a relationship or work on other couples issues? Are you experiencing anxiety or depression; or perhaps you're going through a life, relationship or career transition? Is there a part of you that wants to make things happen for yourself, to create change, to make things better? I am ready to provide a safe and empathetic space for you to explore the many possibilities that are out there for you, and "try on" new ways of experiencing yourself in the world.
(917) 993-5028 View (917) 993-5028
Photo of Maryjane Nelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Maryjane Nelson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
I also utilize Imago therapy in my work.
Clients begin therapy to address issues related to relationship problems, anxiety, job issues, social anxiety, low self-esteem, coping with the loss of an important relationship and having to make significant life decisions or life transitions. The therapeutic relationship is paramount to successful therapeutic outcomes To that end, my style of practice is collaborative and supportive. I work to provide an emotionally safe environment to develop trust and relationship. I utilize cognitive behavioral interventions, mindfulness and CBT and specialize in couples work. I am fully trained in Gottman and Couples Institute work.
I also utilize Imago therapy in my work.
Clients begin therapy to address issues related to relationship problems, anxiety, job issues, social anxiety, low self-esteem, coping with the loss of an important relationship and having to make significant life decisions or life transitions. The therapeutic relationship is paramount to successful therapeutic outcomes To that end, my style of practice is collaborative and supportive. I work to provide an emotionally safe environment to develop trust and relationship. I utilize cognitive behavioral interventions, mindfulness and CBT and specialize in couples work. I am fully trained in Gottman and Couples Institute work.
(917) 383-0868 View (917) 383-0868
Photo of Steven Floyd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Steven Floyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
With the help of Imago Relationship Therapy, couples transform conflicts into opportunities for richer connection and romance.
Life doesn’t have to be a struggle. I'm passionate about supporting individuals and couples to relieve suffering. My approach is a blend of various modalities to meet you where you are. The aim is to create an integrated treatment approach. This approach allows us to explore our earlier experiences while also embracing the present moment and its potential. In the work, we co-create practical action steps to help you move closure to your values. The incorporation of somatic techniques allows you to tune into the body's wisdom.
With the help of Imago Relationship Therapy, couples transform conflicts into opportunities for richer connection and romance.
Life doesn’t have to be a struggle. I'm passionate about supporting individuals and couples to relieve suffering. My approach is a blend of various modalities to meet you where you are. The aim is to create an integrated treatment approach. This approach allows us to explore our earlier experiences while also embracing the present moment and its potential. In the work, we co-create practical action steps to help you move closure to your values. The incorporation of somatic techniques allows you to tune into the body's wisdom.
(347) 215-3127 View (347) 215-3127
Photo of Stella Koltunov, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Stella Koltunov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Imago Relationship Counseling is used to tailor the course of treatment to each client's needs.
Individual, couples, and family therapy is offered here regardless of age or cultural background. Collaborative approaches allow clients to not only manage their symptoms effectively, but to also improve their quality of life and relationships. Clients within the practice are encouraged to develop effective tools to get and keep positive lasting change.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Imago Relationship Counseling is used to tailor the course of treatment to each client's needs.
Individual, couples, and family therapy is offered here regardless of age or cultural background. Collaborative approaches allow clients to not only manage their symptoms effectively, but to also improve their quality of life and relationships. Clients within the practice are encouraged to develop effective tools to get and keep positive lasting change.
(516) 701-2114 View (516) 701-2114
Photo of Will Pitts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Will Pitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10075
My postgraduate training includes psychoanalytic techniques, Gottman, EFT, Imago, money management, and studies in sexualities and gender.
Are you seeking non-judgmental, engaged and collaborative, solution-focused help? As a gender-conscious, cis male psychotherapist specializing in couples and individual therapy, I use both systemic and psychodynamic thinking to help a patient or couple understand their position(s), roles, and relationships, past and present. I honor self-determination and facilitate self-awareness, so that each person I work with can gain clarity, perspective, and relief.
My postgraduate training includes psychoanalytic techniques, Gottman, EFT, Imago, money management, and studies in sexualities and gender.
Are you seeking non-judgmental, engaged and collaborative, solution-focused help? As a gender-conscious, cis male psychotherapist specializing in couples and individual therapy, I use both systemic and psychodynamic thinking to help a patient or couple understand their position(s), roles, and relationships, past and present. I honor self-determination and facilitate self-awareness, so that each person I work with can gain clarity, perspective, and relief.
(917) 382-9150 View (917) 382-9150
Photo of Rebecca Hendrix, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Rebecca Hendrix
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I use Imago, Emotionally Focused Therapy and a deep intuitive sense to identify underlying issues depending on what is presenting itself in each moment.
Are you at a crossroads and need support, guidance and a road map to guide you through a challenging time? Do you want to understand what is keeping you or your marriage/partnership from moving forward and experiencing joy? We all get stuck, require a little extra support and need to learn new tools to better manage the ups and downs of life to be more connected to ourselves and our partners. My style is compassionate and non judgmental. I provide a safe space where healing can occur. I specialize in relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief/loss and spiritual growth.
I use Imago, Emotionally Focused Therapy and a deep intuitive sense to identify underlying issues depending on what is presenting itself in each moment.
Are you at a crossroads and need support, guidance and a road map to guide you through a challenging time? Do you want to understand what is keeping you or your marriage/partnership from moving forward and experiencing joy? We all get stuck, require a little extra support and need to learn new tools to better manage the ups and downs of life to be more connected to ourselves and our partners. My style is compassionate and non judgmental. I provide a safe space where healing can occur. I specialize in relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief/loss and spiritual growth.
(646) 351-1782 View (646) 351-1782
Photo of Anthony J Patterson, Counselor in New York, NY
Anthony J Patterson
Counselor, LMHC, CGP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I find the Imago tools and techniques fundamental in providing a framework to help couples in all stages of their relationship.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for more than 25 years, I continue to provide outstanding individual, couples, and group therapy. Regardless of age, gender, and sexual orientation I help clients with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction. As a certified EMDR therapist, I offer a trauma and mindfulness informed approach to emotional healing. Additionally, as a certified Imago relationship therapist I create a safe space for couples to learn how to enhance their connection, their communication, and address their power struggles in a healthy way utilizing the essential Imago techniques.
I find the Imago tools and techniques fundamental in providing a framework to help couples in all stages of their relationship.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for more than 25 years, I continue to provide outstanding individual, couples, and group therapy. Regardless of age, gender, and sexual orientation I help clients with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction. As a certified EMDR therapist, I offer a trauma and mindfulness informed approach to emotional healing. Additionally, as a certified Imago relationship therapist I create a safe space for couples to learn how to enhance their connection, their communication, and address their power struggles in a healthy way utilizing the essential Imago techniques.
(929) 416-6727 View (929) 416-6727
Photo of Insight.inc in New York, NY
Insight.inc
MS, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
When working with couples, I implement Imago Therapy.
During my 35 years of professional experience in the field of psychology i worked with the small groups under extreme conditions in the expeditions, performed forensic psychological services in Russian prisons and research in the airport, provided counseling services in family psychology and maladaptation. In America my major focus for the past 15 years is on on individual and couple therapy
When working with couples, I implement Imago Therapy.
During my 35 years of professional experience in the field of psychology i worked with the small groups under extreme conditions in the expeditions, performed forensic psychological services in Russian prisons and research in the airport, provided counseling services in family psychology and maladaptation. In America my major focus for the past 15 years is on on individual and couple therapy
(732) 333-8630 View (732) 333-8630
Photo of Stephanie A. Adler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Stephanie A. Adler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10012
Certified Imago Relationship (Couples) Therapist, Psychodramatist and an EMDR and Meditation/MBSR practitioner.
I am internationally recognized for helping people break negative patterns and improve communication in their relationships. For over 35 years, I've led groups for eating disorder recovery & self-esteem enhancement. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families challenged by depression, various forms of addictions, including co-dependency. I help people manage anger, stress and emotional struggles. With compassion and creativity, I actively engage with people to foster resilience, confidence and self-worth in order to mobilize their strengths, fortify their sense of value and embrace their life journey.
Certified Imago Relationship (Couples) Therapist, Psychodramatist and an EMDR and Meditation/MBSR practitioner.
I am internationally recognized for helping people break negative patterns and improve communication in their relationships. For over 35 years, I've led groups for eating disorder recovery & self-esteem enhancement. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families challenged by depression, various forms of addictions, including co-dependency. I help people manage anger, stress and emotional struggles. With compassion and creativity, I actively engage with people to foster resilience, confidence and self-worth in order to mobilize their strengths, fortify their sense of value and embrace their life journey.
(646) 495-9272 View (646) 495-9272
Photo of Howard Danelowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Howard Danelowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I use an Imago Relational approach to couples therapy.
If you have persistent worries or obstacles that stand in the way of living more fully, this could be a good time to have a consultation. My style is compassionate, listening fully and deeply providing you with the tools to make positive changes. I will work with you to create a safe and collaborative environment whether you are feeling anxious, depressed, struggling with relationships or work, issues of sexuality, LGTB, life transitions and loss, or addictive behavior. I hold an MSW and a certificate in supervision from NYU, and certificates in Imago Couples Therapy and Group Therapy.
I use an Imago Relational approach to couples therapy.
If you have persistent worries or obstacles that stand in the way of living more fully, this could be a good time to have a consultation. My style is compassionate, listening fully and deeply providing you with the tools to make positive changes. I will work with you to create a safe and collaborative environment whether you are feeling anxious, depressed, struggling with relationships or work, issues of sexuality, LGTB, life transitions and loss, or addictive behavior. I hold an MSW and a certificate in supervision from NYU, and certificates in Imago Couples Therapy and Group Therapy.
(646) 350-3829 View (646) 350-3829
Photo of Sandra Lugo Psychotherapy Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Sandra Lugo Psychotherapy Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MS, DCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Modalities such as CBT, ACT, DBT, IMAGO, psychodynamic and relational approaches, are used in my practice.
Therapy shouldn't be an expensive luxury. I accept many commercial in-network insurances. More than ever, with the recovery from a pandemic, inflation, and lifestyle changes, there is an increase in anxiety, depressed mood, social fears and worry about the future and unknowns. Therefore, therapy is more of a necessity for many of us.
Modalities such as CBT, ACT, DBT, IMAGO, psychodynamic and relational approaches, are used in my practice.
Therapy shouldn't be an expensive luxury. I accept many commercial in-network insurances. More than ever, with the recovery from a pandemic, inflation, and lifestyle changes, there is an increase in anxiety, depressed mood, social fears and worry about the future and unknowns. Therefore, therapy is more of a necessity for many of us.
(718) 831-6567 View (718) 831-6567
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.