Imago Therapists in Oakley, CA

Photo of Franci Smith, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Franci Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakley, CA 94561
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to provide you with compassionate understanding and a clear plan for moving forward, whatever this means for you. It may mean recovering from depression, overcoming anxiety and stress, healing and improving your relationships, learning to cope with difficult situations, or improving communication. It could also mean helping you enjoy life more, regardless of what is happening around you. I have been providing therapy to individual adults, teens, couples and families for many years. I work with a diverse range of emotional, behavioral & relationship issues, utilizing the most effective strategies.
My goal is to provide you with compassionate understanding and a clear plan for moving forward, whatever this means for you. It may mean recovering from depression, overcoming anxiety and stress, healing and improving your relationships, learning to cope with difficult situations, or improving communication. It could also mean helping you enjoy life more, regardless of what is happening around you. I have been providing therapy to individual adults, teens, couples and families for many years. I work with a diverse range of emotional, behavioral & relationship issues, utilizing the most effective strategies.
(925) 272-2101 View (925) 272-2101

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94509
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 350-3542 View (510) 350-3542
Photo of Jamie Rizzo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Rizzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bethel Island, CA 94511  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in Imago Relationship Therapy, EMDR, EFT, and Hypnotherapy.
You are ready for healing and change and have taken the courageous first step by seeking therapy! Past trauma and life transitions have led you to this point, and you realize it is time to heal, release and move forward into the life you want to live. Let's explore new coping skills to reduce stress and anxiety. I believe that each person carries the resources within themselves to create the life they envision and I am here to assist you in accessing your inner resources to navigate life experiences and deepen your connection to Self.
I have advanced training in Imago Relationship Therapy, EMDR, EFT, and Hypnotherapy.
You are ready for healing and change and have taken the courageous first step by seeking therapy! Past trauma and life transitions have led you to this point, and you realize it is time to heal, release and move forward into the life you want to live. Let's explore new coping skills to reduce stress and anxiety. I believe that each person carries the resources within themselves to create the life they envision and I am here to assist you in accessing your inner resources to navigate life experiences and deepen your connection to Self.
(510) 768-7252 View (510) 768-7252
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 591-4976 View (510) 591-4976
Photo of Jason I. White, MA, AMFT, APCC
Jason I. White
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I believe that the capacities for both healing and growth are innate to each of us, and that the role of a good therapist is to help facilitate the flow of these natural processes. My priority is to assist you in fostering a renewed connection to the inherent vitality, openness, calm, and creativity that reside deep within each of us and to help you embody these resources as you turn toward life's challenges.
I believe that the capacities for both healing and growth are innate to each of us, and that the role of a good therapist is to help facilitate the flow of these natural processes. My priority is to assist you in fostering a renewed connection to the inherent vitality, openness, calm, and creativity that reside deep within each of us and to help you embody these resources as you turn toward life's challenges.
(650) 719-7157 View (650) 719-7157
Photo of Debra Brunsten, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Brunsten
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I work with adult individuals, couples and families to help you cope with not only life's daily struggles, but also provide support for crisis, traumas, challenging life transitions and relationship issues. I combine narrative and somatic therapies, as well as EMDR (trauma work), to help you decrease anxiety and depression, manage stress, cope with challenges and enhance your creativity and productivity. My approach is very conversational, interactive and solution- based. In contrast to heavy analysis, I strive to uncover and cultivate my client's strengths, abilities and values to help them overcome their problems.
I work with adult individuals, couples and families to help you cope with not only life's daily struggles, but also provide support for crisis, traumas, challenging life transitions and relationship issues. I combine narrative and somatic therapies, as well as EMDR (trauma work), to help you decrease anxiety and depression, manage stress, cope with challenges and enhance your creativity and productivity. My approach is very conversational, interactive and solution- based. In contrast to heavy analysis, I strive to uncover and cultivate my client's strengths, abilities and values to help them overcome their problems.
(310) 494-7039 View (310) 494-7039
Photo of Markias Kaiyan Littlejohn, LCSW , LISW-CP, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Markias Kaiyan Littlejohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LISW-CP, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
¡It’s time to Live and not Exist! As successful individuals we often address issues alone! There is Help, Discretion, and Support available. You can have fulfillment in life, reconnect to the person you want to be, rediscover your purpose, and have the existence you desire. Honestly, life is complicated, but therapy can provide solutions to make life manageable and enjoyable. Click the link and start your journey.
¡It’s time to Live and not Exist! As successful individuals we often address issues alone! There is Help, Discretion, and Support available. You can have fulfillment in life, reconnect to the person you want to be, rediscover your purpose, and have the existence you desire. Honestly, life is complicated, but therapy can provide solutions to make life manageable and enjoyable. Click the link and start your journey.
(562) 372-6030 View (562) 372-6030
Photo of Jeanie Griffin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanie Griffin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531
i I am Jeanie Griffin, DD., LMFT, LPC, LCDC, a dedicated advisor and inspirational life mentor specializing in aiding individuals & families impacted by addiction and empowering people seeking spiritual transformation. I have been called a guiding light for those navigating personal growth and life direction. I am loved by clients 18 to 80 years old. Jeanie Griffin is a Number 1 International Best-selling author, keynote speaker, spiritual guide, transformational leader, VIP retreat leader, mental health counselor and addictions trauma psychotherapist.
i I am Jeanie Griffin, DD., LMFT, LPC, LCDC, a dedicated advisor and inspirational life mentor specializing in aiding individuals & families impacted by addiction and empowering people seeking spiritual transformation. I have been called a guiding light for those navigating personal growth and life direction. I am loved by clients 18 to 80 years old. Jeanie Griffin is a Number 1 International Best-selling author, keynote speaker, spiritual guide, transformational leader, VIP retreat leader, mental health counselor and addictions trauma psychotherapist.
(323) 792-2511 View (323) 792-2511
Photo of Debbie B. Dery, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie B. Dery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Whether you feel stuck in your relationship/s, experiencing stress and anxiety, feeling sad, struggling with your partner and/or parenting raising a child with ADHD, we can work together and identify the source of what brought you in to therapy, identify your goals, and explore best possible solutions that will help you feel successful. I creatively integrate a relational model and scientifically proven cognitive behavior techniques which will allow clients gain insight and acquire tools for a positive change in their lives. Together we can find your true growth potential so you can lead a fulfilling life that is worth celebrating.
Whether you feel stuck in your relationship/s, experiencing stress and anxiety, feeling sad, struggling with your partner and/or parenting raising a child with ADHD, we can work together and identify the source of what brought you in to therapy, identify your goals, and explore best possible solutions that will help you feel successful. I creatively integrate a relational model and scientifically proven cognitive behavior techniques which will allow clients gain insight and acquire tools for a positive change in their lives. Together we can find your true growth potential so you can lead a fulfilling life that is worth celebrating.
(818) 814-6535 View (818) 814-6535
Photo of Alexis Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexis Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Connection: we all need it, and chances are we all desire it on a deeper level with our loved ones. Unfortunately, it's something that can be difficult to build and easy to break. If you and your partner or you and your family have struggled to connect due to communication issues and are frustrated with feelings of being misunderstood, dismissed and blamed...if you want to feel heard, learn to validate and empathize and feel connected to your partner or family, I can help. When couples and families work with me, they can expect to be validated, challenged and supported through this journey with warmth, gentleness and understanding.
Connection: we all need it, and chances are we all desire it on a deeper level with our loved ones. Unfortunately, it's something that can be difficult to build and easy to break. If you and your partner or you and your family have struggled to connect due to communication issues and are frustrated with feelings of being misunderstood, dismissed and blamed...if you want to feel heard, learn to validate and empathize and feel connected to your partner or family, I can help. When couples and families work with me, they can expect to be validated, challenged and supported through this journey with warmth, gentleness and understanding.
(951) 574-4743 View (951) 574-4743
Photo of Antoinette De Leon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Antoinette De Leon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Life is overwhelming you right now. You have difficulty setting boundaries, become overstimulated easily, or have difficulty with change. You feel deeply as a highly sensitive person but you’re often misunderstood. I know what it’s like to feel emotionally exhausted and I know how to lead my clients to balanced, more fulfilling lives. My clients become masters at valuing themselves.
Life is overwhelming you right now. You have difficulty setting boundaries, become overstimulated easily, or have difficulty with change. You feel deeply as a highly sensitive person but you’re often misunderstood. I know what it’s like to feel emotionally exhausted and I know how to lead my clients to balanced, more fulfilling lives. My clients become masters at valuing themselves.
(818) 306-3243 View (818) 306-3243

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(650) 397-7833 View (650) 397-7833
Photo of Sobia Saleem Psychotherapist, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sobia Saleem Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95134  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, Imago, Attachment, and Gottman therapy to empower you.
Accepting New Clients! Are you a trans, non-binary, or poly person looking for a therapist who understands & reflects your identity? Are you a newly diagnosed neurodivergent or neuroqueer adult? Are you chronically ill and tired of educating your therapists about your medical conditions? Are you a queer Muslim seeking a therapist who's familiar with both your background & queerness? If so, I want to work with you on your unique challenges, like navigating your transition, exploring sexual dynamics with partner(s), dealing with a new diagnosis, and/or needing an HRT or GAS (surgery) letter. Therapy should cater to you and your needs.
I use EMDR, Imago, Attachment, and Gottman therapy to empower you.
Accepting New Clients! Are you a trans, non-binary, or poly person looking for a therapist who understands & reflects your identity? Are you a newly diagnosed neurodivergent or neuroqueer adult? Are you chronically ill and tired of educating your therapists about your medical conditions? Are you a queer Muslim seeking a therapist who's familiar with both your background & queerness? If so, I want to work with you on your unique challenges, like navigating your transition, exploring sexual dynamics with partner(s), dealing with a new diagnosis, and/or needing an HRT or GAS (surgery) letter. Therapy should cater to you and your needs.
(657) 286-7337 View (657) 286-7337
Photo of Larisa Southerland, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Larisa Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
I primarily use Imago Relationship Therapy to help repair relational ruptures, rebuild trust, and develop effective ways of communicating that soon become second nature.
Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
I primarily use Imago Relationship Therapy to help repair relational ruptures, rebuild trust, and develop effective ways of communicating that soon become second nature.
Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
(323) 894-0768 View (323) 894-0768
Photo of Nina Lindajane Holmes, LMFT, TRI, ESMHL, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nina Lindajane Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, TRI, ESMHL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
As a Certified Advanced Imago Therapist and Imago Workshop Presenter, I work with couples to help them through the rapids of a relationship.
I am a Certified Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Imago Workshop Presenter. I am Internal Family Systems or IFS Level One trained, currently enrolled in Level Two IFS training in Intimacy From the Inside Out (the IFS couples model). I have 18 years of clinical experience assisting with relationships as well as with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, psychosis and sexual assault. I often work collaboratively with the entire family to promote positive change. I provide equine facilitated psychotherapy for individuals who make better progress working outdoors.
As a Certified Advanced Imago Therapist and Imago Workshop Presenter, I work with couples to help them through the rapids of a relationship.
I am a Certified Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Imago Workshop Presenter. I am Internal Family Systems or IFS Level One trained, currently enrolled in Level Two IFS training in Intimacy From the Inside Out (the IFS couples model). I have 18 years of clinical experience assisting with relationships as well as with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, psychosis and sexual assault. I often work collaboratively with the entire family to promote positive change. I provide equine facilitated psychotherapy for individuals who make better progress working outdoors.
(408) 916-3092 View (408) 916-3092
Photo of A Marie Mastrup, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
A Marie Mastrup
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sonoma, CA 95476  (Online Only)
I find that Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and IMAGO Therapy, are effective approaches to address trauma, anxiety, OCD and issues of Codependency and Self-Worth.
Limited openings, please e-mail for availability. After 15 years working with community-based agencies in multiple roles as well as about 20 years working with vulnerable youth, I am happily dedicated to private practice care. My practice is centered around whole-person treatment. Together, we will explore root causes to your symptoms, the narrative of your family system, process old trauma and develop healthy coping skills to manage your symptoms. Trauma, OCD, ADHD, Generalized Anxiety and Codependency Treatment, are my primary specialties. I look forward to learning about and helping you identify your unique goals for therapy.
I find that Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and IMAGO Therapy, are effective approaches to address trauma, anxiety, OCD and issues of Codependency and Self-Worth.
Limited openings, please e-mail for availability. After 15 years working with community-based agencies in multiple roles as well as about 20 years working with vulnerable youth, I am happily dedicated to private practice care. My practice is centered around whole-person treatment. Together, we will explore root causes to your symptoms, the narrative of your family system, process old trauma and develop healthy coping skills to manage your symptoms. Trauma, OCD, ADHD, Generalized Anxiety and Codependency Treatment, are my primary specialties. I look forward to learning about and helping you identify your unique goals for therapy.
(323) 576-4671 View (323) 576-4671
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(925) 320-0698 View (925) 320-0698
Photo of Brad Gilbert - Brad Gilbert, Trauma and Sex Addiction, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brad Gilbert, Trauma and Sex Addiction
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
I use the Imago and Gottman approaches with couples therapy for increased intimacy and decreased conflict.
2 OPEN Spots in my Hybrid Men's Sex Addiction Group. Details are listed in my Groups below.....Are you struggling to stay in the present because of trauma triggers or addictive behaviors? I find out what works best for you using my skills of psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, humor and good 'ol common sense. I will help you uncover your greatest potential. I will teach you effective tools for improved mood and decreased conflict from our first sessions together. So call for your free phone consult NOW!
I use the Imago and Gottman approaches with couples therapy for increased intimacy and decreased conflict.
2 OPEN Spots in my Hybrid Men's Sex Addiction Group. Details are listed in my Groups below.....Are you struggling to stay in the present because of trauma triggers or addictive behaviors? I find out what works best for you using my skills of psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, humor and good 'ol common sense. I will help you uncover your greatest potential. I will teach you effective tools for improved mood and decreased conflict from our first sessions together. So call for your free phone consult NOW!
(916) 378-5057 View (916) 378-5057
Photo of Mary Kennard, BA, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Kennard
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I bring to my practice studies in: Bowen family systems, Bader/Pearson couples Tx training, Gottman's Theory/therapy and Hendrix Imago Therapy for Couples approaches, as well as Somatic Experiencing, ACT, and Brainspotting.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of personal issues helping them to move from discord to harmony on goals of their choice.I find that everyone has a story to tell and believe that I am very attuned at helping clarify the impact our stories have in our lives. It is my belief that each person has hidden strengths that may have been weakened by life events. I have experience working with all ages, and stages of life; with individuals, couples, and families.With this experience I have developed a great empathy and understanding of those in distress.
I bring to my practice studies in: Bowen family systems, Bader/Pearson couples Tx training, Gottman's Theory/therapy and Hendrix Imago Therapy for Couples approaches, as well as Somatic Experiencing, ACT, and Brainspotting.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of personal issues helping them to move from discord to harmony on goals of their choice.I find that everyone has a story to tell and believe that I am very attuned at helping clarify the impact our stories have in our lives. It is my belief that each person has hidden strengths that may have been weakened by life events. I have experience working with all ages, and stages of life; with individuals, couples, and families.With this experience I have developed a great empathy and understanding of those in distress.
(925) 400-7634 View (925) 400-7634
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 391-3959 View (510) 391-3959

See more therapy options for Oakley

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.