Imago Therapists in Washington, DC
The Pincus Center specializes in working with clients to build a life filled with pleasure and joy. We will help you to find your inner voice, establish your own goals and find a path that works for you. There is no one true way to do therapy or to live your life. We will help you find the tools to ride the waves of emotions that we all experience instead of being pulled under. We can't make everything perfect but we can make it better. We focus on issues around body acceptance, sexual freedom, neurodiversity, shame, low desire, sexual functioning issues and a wide variety of other mental health issues.
The Pincus Center specializes in working with clients to build a life filled with pleasure and joy. We will help you to find your inner voice, establish your own goals and find a path that works for you. There is no one true way to do therapy or to live your life. We will help you find the tools to ride the waves of emotions that we all experience instead of being pulled under. We can't make everything perfect but we can make it better. We focus on issues around body acceptance, sexual freedom, neurodiversity, shame, low desire, sexual functioning issues and a wide variety of other mental health issues.
Stacy Notaras Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, EMDR-C
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
My experience and training (EFT: Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Imago, PACT) helped me see that most emotional challenges are tied to how we function in our personal relationships.
I am certified in Emotionally-Focused (EFT) Therapy for both individuals and couples, credentials requiring several years of training and supervision to integrate attachment-focused repair tools into my relationship work. The Washington Post has quoted me as a "relationship expert" because I make conversation about couplehood feel connected and productive.
My experience and training (EFT: Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Imago, PACT) helped me see that most emotional challenges are tied to how we function in our personal relationships.
I am certified in Emotionally-Focused (EFT) Therapy for both individuals and couples, credentials requiring several years of training and supervision to integrate attachment-focused repair tools into my relationship work. The Washington Post has quoted me as a "relationship expert" because I make conversation about couplehood feel connected and productive.
I am a certified Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, ART therapist (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), Encounter-centered Couples Therapist, HeartMath Clinician and Psychedelic Integration Therapist.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress instead of just skimming the surface level of symptoms. When root causes are addressed, symptoms can dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. My process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. Ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and ready to release patterns of behavior that no longer serve them.
I am a certified Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, ART therapist (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), Encounter-centered Couples Therapist, HeartMath Clinician and Psychedelic Integration Therapist.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress instead of just skimming the surface level of symptoms. When root causes are addressed, symptoms can dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. My process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. Ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and ready to release patterns of behavior that no longer serve them.
I believe in providing a safe, judgment-free, and supportive space for my clients. From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties. Along with this, I help develop insights and depth into why one’s struggles may be happening. I value a strong therapeutic relationship as a channel for understanding and a way to foster open and honest dialogue. My therapy style can be described as compassionate, direct, solution-oriented, and mind-body-focused. Together, we will create a personalized and flexible plan to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I believe in providing a safe, judgment-free, and supportive space for my clients. From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties. Along with this, I help develop insights and depth into why one’s struggles may be happening. I value a strong therapeutic relationship as a channel for understanding and a way to foster open and honest dialogue. My therapy style can be described as compassionate, direct, solution-oriented, and mind-body-focused. Together, we will create a personalized and flexible plan to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Out of the Margins Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
At Out of the Margins, we know how hard it can be to take steps towards getting the support you deserve. This space is for you. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, & group therapy. Located on Belmont and 18th Street NW in the heart of Adams Morgan, our Washington DC-based practice specializes in supporting people from historically marginalized communities. Our practice is designed to help you feel at ease & bring your whole self into sessions. We begin therapy sessions creating a solid relationship & all of the uniqueness your story brings.
At Out of the Margins, we know how hard it can be to take steps towards getting the support you deserve. This space is for you. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, & group therapy. Located on Belmont and 18th Street NW in the heart of Adams Morgan, our Washington DC-based practice specializes in supporting people from historically marginalized communities. Our practice is designed to help you feel at ease & bring your whole self into sessions. We begin therapy sessions creating a solid relationship & all of the uniqueness your story brings.
I’m Marissa Nelson, an award-winning, Relationship and Sex Therapist, TEDx speaker, and educator dedicated to helping couples and individuals thrive. You can catch me on Fox 5 or Good Day DC sharing insights on dating, or in the NY Times, Wall Street Journal, Glamour, and Women’s Health as a trusted relationship expert. I recently launched The Lovers Society, a community offering resources, courses, and content to help you level up your relationship. My mission is to help you reclaim pleasure and intimacy, and gain the clarity and support to make decisions that work for your future—because you deserve peace, joy, ease, and rest!
I’m Marissa Nelson, an award-winning, Relationship and Sex Therapist, TEDx speaker, and educator dedicated to helping couples and individuals thrive. You can catch me on Fox 5 or Good Day DC sharing insights on dating, or in the NY Times, Wall Street Journal, Glamour, and Women’s Health as a trusted relationship expert. I recently launched The Lovers Society, a community offering resources, courses, and content to help you level up your relationship. My mission is to help you reclaim pleasure and intimacy, and gain the clarity and support to make decisions that work for your future—because you deserve peace, joy, ease, and rest!
Are you in your twenties or thirties and feeling lost and unsure of yourself? The many changes during this time of life (like graduation, new jobs, and dating) are exciting, but they also can be very overwhelming. Life transitions are an inevitable part of life, and much of our happiness depends on how we navigate these times of change. If you're struggling, you may be experiencing a quarterlife crisis. You are not alone, and we are here to help! Our therapists and career coaches at the Quarterlife Center (QLC) specialize in helping young adults survive their quarterlife crisis and thrive in their lives.
Are you in your twenties or thirties and feeling lost and unsure of yourself? The many changes during this time of life (like graduation, new jobs, and dating) are exciting, but they also can be very overwhelming. Life transitions are an inevitable part of life, and much of our happiness depends on how we navigate these times of change. If you're struggling, you may be experiencing a quarterlife crisis. You are not alone, and we are here to help! Our therapists and career coaches at the Quarterlife Center (QLC) specialize in helping young adults survive their quarterlife crisis and thrive in their lives.
Solution oriented couples therapy blending the understanding of the imago therapy framework with the most recent innovations in the field of marriage and family therapy and mindfulness.
Clients with a strong desire to fix their relationships in the most profound ways fit well with my practice .This is true even if you don’t know what is wrong or your partner disagrees about what the problem is. The change is not just communication patterns but also underlying intense emotional distress or explosive patterns of expression. We address complaints such as lack of sex or affection or emotional withdrawal.We stop couples from divorce and fix communication problems by training partners how to best be supportive and to understand underlying psychological messages unwittingly communicated between partners.
Solution oriented couples therapy blending the understanding of the imago therapy framework with the most recent innovations in the field of marriage and family therapy and mindfulness.
Clients with a strong desire to fix their relationships in the most profound ways fit well with my practice .This is true even if you don’t know what is wrong or your partner disagrees about what the problem is. The change is not just communication patterns but also underlying intense emotional distress or explosive patterns of expression. We address complaints such as lack of sex or affection or emotional withdrawal.We stop couples from divorce and fix communication problems by training partners how to best be supportive and to understand underlying psychological messages unwittingly communicated between partners.
I practice a relational form of psychodynamic/humanistic therapy that views the therapeutic relationship as central to the therapeutic process. However. I also incorporate therapeutic tools from difrrent pychotherapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, and psychoanalysis . I have had great success working with people who have had difficulty connecting to therapists in the past and am noted for working with high-conflict couples. I enjoy working with couples utilizing. among other modalities, the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, which aren't necessarily exclusive to each other
I practice a relational form of psychodynamic/humanistic therapy that views the therapeutic relationship as central to the therapeutic process. However. I also incorporate therapeutic tools from difrrent pychotherapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, and psychoanalysis . I have had great success working with people who have had difficulty connecting to therapists in the past and am noted for working with high-conflict couples. I enjoy working with couples utilizing. among other modalities, the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, which aren't necessarily exclusive to each other
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Washington, DC, with more than 15 years of experience helping clients navigate life transitions, relationship challenges, and questions of meaning and purpose. I specialize in working with midlife professionals who want to identify the origins of their difficulties, create healthier patterns, and move toward purposeful living. My Adlerian approach is collaborative and holistic, integrating mind-body strategies, lifestyle awareness, and practical skills. The therapeutic process may also be supplemented with wellness coaching to support balance, sustainable growth, and lasting change.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Washington, DC, with more than 15 years of experience helping clients navigate life transitions, relationship challenges, and questions of meaning and purpose. I specialize in working with midlife professionals who want to identify the origins of their difficulties, create healthier patterns, and move toward purposeful living. My Adlerian approach is collaborative and holistic, integrating mind-body strategies, lifestyle awareness, and practical skills. The therapeutic process may also be supplemented with wellness coaching to support balance, sustainable growth, and lasting change.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), an Advanced Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, and a presenter for the "Getting The Love You Want" workshop.
As a compassionate therapist, I am here to guide you on a journey of rediscovery and healing. I believe in the transformative power of relationships and am dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential. In our work together, we will create a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your challenges and grow. For couples, this means delving deep into trust, communication, and intimacy issues. For individuals, it's about understanding your inner world and fostering self-compassion.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), an Advanced Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, and a presenter for the "Getting The Love You Want" workshop.
As a compassionate therapist, I am here to guide you on a journey of rediscovery and healing. I believe in the transformative power of relationships and am dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential. In our work together, we will create a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your challenges and grow. For couples, this means delving deep into trust, communication, and intimacy issues. For individuals, it's about understanding your inner world and fostering self-compassion.
My approach is based in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), EMDR, Transformative Couples Therapy, and Imago Therapy.
I love helping lawyers and other stressed out and exhausted human beings heal, grow, and thrive. Whether in individual, couple, or group therapy, I help people reconnect to themselves and the people they love. As a former BigLaw and in-house lawyer, I know how the overwhelming stress and demands of intense professions can take a toll on both us and our relationships. I help my clients tame that stress and build lives and relationships full of meaning, peace, and joy.
My approach is based in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), EMDR, Transformative Couples Therapy, and Imago Therapy.
I love helping lawyers and other stressed out and exhausted human beings heal, grow, and thrive. Whether in individual, couple, or group therapy, I help people reconnect to themselves and the people they love. As a former BigLaw and in-house lawyer, I know how the overwhelming stress and demands of intense professions can take a toll on both us and our relationships. I help my clients tame that stress and build lives and relationships full of meaning, peace, and joy.
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
My style of relationship therapy, rooted in Imago therapy, is particularly effective in helping couples develop safe and more loving relationships, in which pain and conflict are turned into an opportunity for growth and greater closeness.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me.
We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
My style of relationship therapy, rooted in Imago therapy, is particularly effective in helping couples develop safe and more loving relationships, in which pain and conflict are turned into an opportunity for growth and greater closeness.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me.
We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
If you are in the midst of a daunting medical diagnosis or grieving a painful loss, I am glad you found my page. Perhaps you are caring for a loved one, and find yourself mentally & physically exhausted, or you're struggling with religious or spiritual questions. Or maybe you are about to embark on treatment for cancer or fertility and are struggling with a tangled ball of emotions. In my work with clients, I create a safe, compassionate space to unpack and explore these issues, and to be a companion on your journey toward healing, growth, and transformation. Whatever brought you here today: I am here to listen.
If you are in the midst of a daunting medical diagnosis or grieving a painful loss, I am glad you found my page. Perhaps you are caring for a loved one, and find yourself mentally & physically exhausted, or you're struggling with religious or spiritual questions. Or maybe you are about to embark on treatment for cancer or fertility and are struggling with a tangled ball of emotions. In my work with clients, I create a safe, compassionate space to unpack and explore these issues, and to be a companion on your journey toward healing, growth, and transformation. Whatever brought you here today: I am here to listen.
Robert G Hartford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CSW, LSCP, EFT
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
As the only Licensed Systems-Centered Therapist in the DC area, together we will explore how to get more of what you want. In a supportive, safe environment, you'll learn methods to reduce anxiety, depression and identify patterns that likely served you at one time but are no longer effective. Initially, sessions will be focused on: Exploring the issues that are important to you - determine goals you want to achieve. We will begin to develop trust, respect, and a personal connection so that you feel safe and understood. Also as a Certified EFT - Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist specializing in serving the LGBTQAI+ community.
As the only Licensed Systems-Centered Therapist in the DC area, together we will explore how to get more of what you want. In a supportive, safe environment, you'll learn methods to reduce anxiety, depression and identify patterns that likely served you at one time but are no longer effective. Initially, sessions will be focused on: Exploring the issues that are important to you - determine goals you want to achieve. We will begin to develop trust, respect, and a personal connection so that you feel safe and understood. Also as a Certified EFT - Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist specializing in serving the LGBTQAI+ community.
I draw from various theoretical models such as Imago, IFS, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I understand that reaching out for therapy is often a challenge and that it may be difficult to choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I have been providing therapy for 28 years and have built a practice predicated upon expertise, trust, collaboration, and confidentiality. I specialize in providing support and successful techniques to help you manage stressors and symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, relationship stress, addiction, and sexual dysfunction. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples.
I draw from various theoretical models such as Imago, IFS, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I understand that reaching out for therapy is often a challenge and that it may be difficult to choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I have been providing therapy for 28 years and have built a practice predicated upon expertise, trust, collaboration, and confidentiality. I specialize in providing support and successful techniques to help you manage stressors and symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, relationship stress, addiction, and sexual dysfunction. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples.
I like to use Imago Therapy with communication; object relations to look at past formative relationships and their current effect; cognitive and behavioral techniques and tools when working with anxiety and OCD; and stress relief techniques for trauma.
I am a client-centered therapist working with individuals and with a specialty in couple and family work . I am attachment and psychodynamically trained. I use my dance background as a useful tool to further understand the body signals as information to guide me towards creating a workable creative partnership and family unit . I use a combination of cognitive behavioral tools to understand the language we use in our relationships and our past family interactions which guide us toward a workable and balanced way of living in partnership with others . My training in trauma, anxiety, sexual concerns guide my work with my patients .
I like to use Imago Therapy with communication; object relations to look at past formative relationships and their current effect; cognitive and behavioral techniques and tools when working with anxiety and OCD; and stress relief techniques for trauma.
I am a client-centered therapist working with individuals and with a specialty in couple and family work . I am attachment and psychodynamically trained. I use my dance background as a useful tool to further understand the body signals as information to guide me towards creating a workable creative partnership and family unit . I use a combination of cognitive behavioral tools to understand the language we use in our relationships and our past family interactions which guide us toward a workable and balanced way of living in partnership with others . My training in trauma, anxiety, sexual concerns guide my work with my patients .
I am a therapist and clinical sexologist who has worked for over 15 years with clients across the lifespan. Currently, I work with cis-het and LGBTQIA+ adults and couples in all relationship styles. My first goal in working with a new client or couple is to understand their experience and concerns. From there, we collaboratively determine how I can best assist them in the therapy process. I pride myself on my ability to meet people where they are at, build a supportive relationship, and help them work towards their goals. Over the years, my clients have told me they value my direct and compassionate therapeutic style.
I am a therapist and clinical sexologist who has worked for over 15 years with clients across the lifespan. Currently, I work with cis-het and LGBTQIA+ adults and couples in all relationship styles. My first goal in working with a new client or couple is to understand their experience and concerns. From there, we collaboratively determine how I can best assist them in the therapy process. I pride myself on my ability to meet people where they are at, build a supportive relationship, and help them work towards their goals. Over the years, my clients have told me they value my direct and compassionate therapeutic style.
Working with me is a collaborative process. We focus on making change a reality. We explore what isn't working in your life, relationship concerns, navigating life transitions, or the experience of a serious medical illness or a difficult childhood/adolescence. In my 30+ years as a clinician I have mastered many therapeutic techniques and methods. I love using all the tools in my toolbox to create an individualized therapeutic approach for each of my clients. Our work is action oriented, creative and encompasses healing mind, body and spirit. Free 20-minute phone consultation.
Working with me is a collaborative process. We focus on making change a reality. We explore what isn't working in your life, relationship concerns, navigating life transitions, or the experience of a serious medical illness or a difficult childhood/adolescence. In my 30+ years as a clinician I have mastered many therapeutic techniques and methods. I love using all the tools in my toolbox to create an individualized therapeutic approach for each of my clients. Our work is action oriented, creative and encompasses healing mind, body and spirit. Free 20-minute phone consultation.
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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.