Imago Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Dr. Ron Del Moro, PhD, EdS, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Ron Del Moro
Counselor, PhD, EdS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My couples and marriage therapy approach is guided by the works of John Gottman and the IMAGO Relationship principles.
My objectives in therapy are safety and growth. We will work together to discover what is needed to create the life and relationships you want. Together, we discuss what is needed for you to thrive (and what gets in the way). I am honest and direct in my work. I am a highly empathetic, interactive, personal, and dynamic therapist who can equally support and challenge when needed. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with relationship issues, connections (with self and others), anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, communication, impostor syndrome, and mindfulness.
My couples and marriage therapy approach is guided by the works of John Gottman and the IMAGO Relationship principles.
My objectives in therapy are safety and growth. We will work together to discover what is needed to create the life and relationships you want. Together, we discuss what is needed for you to thrive (and what gets in the way). I am honest and direct in my work. I am a highly empathetic, interactive, personal, and dynamic therapist who can equally support and challenge when needed. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with relationship issues, connections (with self and others), anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, communication, impostor syndrome, and mindfulness.
(202) 729-9286 View (202) 729-9286
Photo of Paul E Ruffer, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul E Ruffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
As an Advanced Certified Imago Therapist, I help couples create connection and intimacy by using their conflicts to promote understanding, celebrate differences, and develop real partnership.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on relationship building, conflict and anger management, and coping with grief and loss. I help couples create a safe and nurturing bond that allows them to become close again and heal. No matter the issue that brings a couple, individual, or family into my office, they will all be learning a new way to look at relationship and be introduced to a toolkit of skills essential to staying in conversation and connection.
As an Advanced Certified Imago Therapist, I help couples create connection and intimacy by using their conflicts to promote understanding, celebrate differences, and develop real partnership.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on relationship building, conflict and anger management, and coping with grief and loss. I help couples create a safe and nurturing bond that allows them to become close again and heal. No matter the issue that brings a couple, individual, or family into my office, they will all be learning a new way to look at relationship and be introduced to a toolkit of skills essential to staying in conversation and connection.
(202) 759-2307 View (202) 759-2307
Photo of Dr. Kerley Perminio Most, PhD, LPC, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. Kerley Perminio Most
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
As a certified Imago therapist, It will be my honor to be a witness to your journey as you transform the challenges in your life into strength and resilience.
Hello, it is so good to connect with you! Welcome to my practice! You may be ready to explore your life in an intentional environment. To engage in a space where you can fully embrace yourself, your journey, and your gifts. I believe in your ability to process, validate, and overcome life's unexpected events, such as grief, breakups, career or academic setbacks, relationship disconnection, and loneliness. Let's work together to uncover your inner strength and build a foundation for your well-being.
As a certified Imago therapist, It will be my honor to be a witness to your journey as you transform the challenges in your life into strength and resilience.
Hello, it is so good to connect with you! Welcome to my practice! You may be ready to explore your life in an intentional environment. To engage in a space where you can fully embrace yourself, your journey, and your gifts. I believe in your ability to process, validate, and overcome life's unexpected events, such as grief, breakups, career or academic setbacks, relationship disconnection, and loneliness. Let's work together to uncover your inner strength and build a foundation for your well-being.
(202) 733-6475 View (202) 733-6475
Photo of Dr. Caroline Bernhardt-Lanier, PhD, MEd, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Caroline Bernhardt-Lanier
Counselor, PhD, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20012  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples experience deeper connection, wholeness, and joy in their relationship. I speak French and Spanish fluently and appreciate the richness and challenges of multiculturalism in relationships. I have experience working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, self-esteem, and other interpersonal issues. My husband and I lead one-day workshops for premarital and pre-commitment couples and 2-day Imago workshops for couples at any stage in their relationship.
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples experience deeper connection, wholeness, and joy in their relationship. I speak French and Spanish fluently and appreciate the richness and challenges of multiculturalism in relationships. I have experience working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, self-esteem, and other interpersonal issues. My husband and I lead one-day workshops for premarital and pre-commitment couples and 2-day Imago workshops for couples at any stage in their relationship.
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Photo of Carolyn Bell, LPC, NCC, MA, MBA, Counselor
Carolyn Bell
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My approach to couples therapy is based on EFT, Imago and Gottman Method Therapy.
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I collaborate with couples and individuals to increase your inner awareness of self to share with others. I help clients process life-changing events including job growth and relocation, loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses, and adoption. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I'm licensed in DC/MD/VA. My diverse background includes working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street and Main Street.
My approach to couples therapy is based on EFT, Imago and Gottman Method Therapy.
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I collaborate with couples and individuals to increase your inner awareness of self to share with others. I help clients process life-changing events including job growth and relocation, loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses, and adoption. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I'm licensed in DC/MD/VA. My diverse background includes working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street and Main Street.
(833) 283-9669 View (833) 283-9669
Photo of Megan Goldberg, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
My approach includes psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies along with Gottman’s, Imago, and emotionally focused therapy for couples.
If you feel stuck, stagnated, or like you’re struggling with persistent worries, avoidance or procrastination, tough communication with a partner, a stream of academic or career stressors, or your relationship with substances, we can work together to improve your satisfaction with yourself and the life you create around you. Life is full of challenges and it’s crucial to develop a toolbox of coping strategies to navigate them fluidly. That’s where I come in! Together, we'll create a safe space for us to process your challenges and use your strengths to step toward your goals.
My approach includes psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies along with Gottman’s, Imago, and emotionally focused therapy for couples.
If you feel stuck, stagnated, or like you’re struggling with persistent worries, avoidance or procrastination, tough communication with a partner, a stream of academic or career stressors, or your relationship with substances, we can work together to improve your satisfaction with yourself and the life you create around you. Life is full of challenges and it’s crucial to develop a toolbox of coping strategies to navigate them fluidly. That’s where I come in! Together, we'll create a safe space for us to process your challenges and use your strengths to step toward your goals.
(202) 929-0995 View (202) 929-0995
Photo of Deborah J Fox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah J Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
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.
(202) 656-7984 View (202) 656-7984
Photo of Tony Brunswick, LGPC, NCC, MS, Counselor
Tony Brunswick
Counselor, LGPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
With couples, I draw on the Gottman, Imago, and EFT to strengthen communication, understanding, trust, and intimacy.
We all need support at different times in our lives. Navigating relationships, grief, life transitions, anxiety, loss, and trauma can be complex and overwhelming. If you are feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of what your next step should be, my approach to therapy focuses on helping you understand what troubles you and gain insight toward change that is positive and lasting. In my work with individuals and couples, I take a caring and collaborative approach to therapy to help you discover healing and meaning in your life and in your relationships.
With couples, I draw on the Gottman, Imago, and EFT to strengthen communication, understanding, trust, and intimacy.
We all need support at different times in our lives. Navigating relationships, grief, life transitions, anxiety, loss, and trauma can be complex and overwhelming. If you are feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of what your next step should be, my approach to therapy focuses on helping you understand what troubles you and gain insight toward change that is positive and lasting. In my work with individuals and couples, I take a caring and collaborative approach to therapy to help you discover healing and meaning in your life and in your relationships.
(202) 556-1984 View (202) 556-1984
Photo of Ciara Simonson, MDiv , MS , LGPC, Counselor
Ciara Simonson
Counselor, MDiv , MS , LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20012
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.
(855) 717-2952 View (855) 717-2952
Photo of Ellen F Heyman, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen F Heyman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I am currently adding certification as an Imago Therapist.
I place great importance on creating a non-judgmental atmosphere where the person that I am seeing can talk comfortably about their difficulties without fear of stigma or criticism. My approach is one of discovering the links between past and present relationship patterns, and using these insights to foster change and growth. After over thirty years in the field, I believe that I have developed the ability to understand a situation quickly, and to communicate recommendations in an empathic and sensitive manner. I am able to work in brief psychotherapy, and wish to provide genuine help as quickly as possible.
I am currently adding certification as an Imago Therapist.
I place great importance on creating a non-judgmental atmosphere where the person that I am seeing can talk comfortably about their difficulties without fear of stigma or criticism. My approach is one of discovering the links between past and present relationship patterns, and using these insights to foster change and growth. After over thirty years in the field, I believe that I have developed the ability to understand a situation quickly, and to communicate recommendations in an empathic and sensitive manner. I am able to work in brief psychotherapy, and wish to provide genuine help as quickly as possible.
(703) 468-8907 View (703) 468-8907
Photo of Carl D Siegel, MDiv, PhD, Psychologist
Carl D Siegel
Psychologist, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I've been working with stressed out, burned out, overworked, anxious and depressed Washingtonians for over 30 years and call me crazy but I still love the work. It's such a privilege to work with an amazing diversity of smart interesting people! While I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic modalities I've learned the most from my clients. About half of my caseload is working with couples primarily using the Imago relationship therapy approach. The rest of my client load is working with individual adults and relationship groups for men. Men really flourish in these relationship groups.
I've been working with stressed out, burned out, overworked, anxious and depressed Washingtonians for over 30 years and call me crazy but I still love the work. It's such a privilege to work with an amazing diversity of smart interesting people! While I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic modalities I've learned the most from my clients. About half of my caseload is working with couples primarily using the Imago relationship therapy approach. The rest of my client load is working with individual adults and relationship groups for men. Men really flourish in these relationship groups.
(202) 836-6168 View (202) 836-6168
Photo of Michelle Cotter Richards, JD, LICSW, LCSW, PCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Cotter Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LICSW, LCSW, PCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is rooted in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Imago Relationship Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I love helping lawyers and other stressed out and exhausted human beings heal, grow, and thrive by reconnecting to themselves and the people they love. As a former BigLaw and in-house lawyer, I know how the overwhelming stress and demands of our profession can take a toll on both us and our relationships. I work with individuals and couples to tame that stress and build lives and relationships full of meaning, peace, and joy.
My approach is rooted in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Imago Relationship Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I love helping lawyers and other stressed out and exhausted human beings heal, grow, and thrive by reconnecting to themselves and the people they love. As a former BigLaw and in-house lawyer, I know how the overwhelming stress and demands of our profession can take a toll on both us and our relationships. I work with individuals and couples to tame that stress and build lives and relationships full of meaning, peace, and joy.
(202) 796-5607 View (202) 796-5607
Photo of Gwen Enfield Pearl, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Enfield Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
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.
(202) 618-9869 View (202) 618-9869
Photo of Lizzie Liu, MEd(s), LCPC, NCC, CSTIP
Lizzie Liu
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd(s), LCPC, NCC, CSTIP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence and strength-based therapeutic approaches including Imago and Polyvagal Theory.
Are you tired of fighting with your partner constantly without finding a path to move forward? Are you from a culture that is different from your partner's culture? Do you feel like the intimacy and passion have left your relationship? Your relationship doesn't have to suffer through those conflicts in the dark, nor does it have to be a battleground for your differences; it can be a rich soil for meeting your unmet needs. Therapy is the right place for you and your partner to explore complex emotions. If you are not sure what you are experiencing, therapy also allows you to get closer to the unknown.
I utilize evidence and strength-based therapeutic approaches including Imago and Polyvagal Theory.
Are you tired of fighting with your partner constantly without finding a path to move forward? Are you from a culture that is different from your partner's culture? Do you feel like the intimacy and passion have left your relationship? Your relationship doesn't have to suffer through those conflicts in the dark, nor does it have to be a battleground for your differences; it can be a rich soil for meeting your unmet needs. Therapy is the right place for you and your partner to explore complex emotions. If you are not sure what you are experiencing, therapy also allows you to get closer to the unknown.
(240) 209-9592 View (240) 209-9592
Photo of Dr. Monique D Walker - Conscientious Coupling: Center for Relationships, PhD, LMFT, CIRT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Conscientious Coupling: Center for Relationships
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CIRT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Mo is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) + is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist (CIRT)/Coach.
Dr. Monique Walker, LMFT understands the unique healing path necessary to overcome racial, gender + sexuality-based oppression due to her own personal + professional experiences navigating these challenges. Dr. Mo knows how rewarding it is to invest in your personal growth through a process that offers a space to be nurtured and lovingly challenged. She looks forward to getting to know you + finding the right balance to explore what’s possible in your life right now. Dr. Mo works with individuals, couples + families to help them heal past traumas, become more authentic + create better relationships with themselves and others.
Mo is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) + is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist (CIRT)/Coach.
Dr. Monique Walker, LMFT understands the unique healing path necessary to overcome racial, gender + sexuality-based oppression due to her own personal + professional experiences navigating these challenges. Dr. Mo knows how rewarding it is to invest in your personal growth through a process that offers a space to be nurtured and lovingly challenged. She looks forward to getting to know you + finding the right balance to explore what’s possible in your life right now. Dr. Mo works with individuals, couples + families to help them heal past traumas, become more authentic + create better relationships with themselves and others.
(888) 410-9396 View (888) 410-9396
Photo of Gail Guttman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Guttman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I am a Certified Imago Relationship & Singles Therapist, Community Educator, and Consultant, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor (by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists).
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship & Singles Therapist, Community Educator, and Consultant, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor (by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists).
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
(301) 304-4781 View (301) 304-4781
Photo of Dr. Emma J. Smith, LPCMHSP, LCPC, CST, CCTP, CTCT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Emma J. Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, LCPC, CST, CCTP, CTCT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and an Certified Sex Therapist trained in EMDR, CPT, and Imago Therapy, I offer a comfortable, non-judgmental environment for healing and growth for clients.
Now Scheduling for October! Individuals & couples working with me are high-achieving professionals ("Type A+") who often have succeeded despite painful experiences, but now anxiety, feeling stressed all the time or diminished interest in sex are impacting their lives. They have already tried all the "normal stuff" and probably have a shelf of self-help books. "Nothing's working and it doesn't make sense!" I help these high-performers work through anxiety, depression, trauma (PTSD), problem sexual behavior, rekindle connections or work through challenges in their relationships, even when they have a lot on their plate.
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and an Certified Sex Therapist trained in EMDR, CPT, and Imago Therapy, I offer a comfortable, non-judgmental environment for healing and growth for clients.
Now Scheduling for October! Individuals & couples working with me are high-achieving professionals ("Type A+") who often have succeeded despite painful experiences, but now anxiety, feeling stressed all the time or diminished interest in sex are impacting their lives. They have already tried all the "normal stuff" and probably have a shelf of self-help books. "Nothing's working and it doesn't make sense!" I help these high-performers work through anxiety, depression, trauma (PTSD), problem sexual behavior, rekindle connections or work through challenges in their relationships, even when they have a lot on their plate.
(629) 207-6461 View (629) 207-6461
Photo of Nancy Hyatt, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Hyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
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 rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
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 rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
(202) 796-6091 View (202) 796-6091
Photo of Tory Joseph, MEd, LCPC
Tory Joseph
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I have been trained in and use the methods of Imago Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy with couples.
I offer a warm, accepting approach to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a workshop presenter, parent educator and counselor, I have experienced positive results with hundreds of families. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, I work with couples on improving relationships. Teaching positive parenting techniques, I help parents of both young children and teens to solve problems, and create a healthy, successful family life.
I have been trained in and use the methods of Imago Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy with couples.
I offer a warm, accepting approach to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a workshop presenter, parent educator and counselor, I have experienced positive results with hundreds of families. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, I work with couples on improving relationships. Teaching positive parenting techniques, I help parents of both young children and teens to solve problems, and create a healthy, successful family life.
(301) 205-5368 View (301) 205-5368
Photo of Robyn S. Zeiger, PhD, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Robyn S. Zeiger
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Other areas of special interest to me are pet loss issues, adult children of alcoholics, and couples' communication (I am a Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist).
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
Other areas of special interest to me are pet loss issues, adult children of alcoholics, and couples' communication (I am a Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist).
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
(301) 825-5154 View (301) 825-5154
1
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.