Imago Therapists in North Potomac, MD

Photo of Emily Pavlick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Emily Pavlick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MA
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Authenticity, genuineness, and deep empathy form the foundation for the way I find connection with my clients. I come from a client-centered approach where unconditional positive regard drives the work we will do. I’ve always believed that people are as different on the inside as they look on the outside and it is my job to connect with that special uniqueness to best support your growth. I approach therapy with compassion, warmth, a sense of humor, and without judgement. My goal is to provide a safe and comforting space for you to process any struggles, big and small, while learning to increase happiness and decrease pain.
Authenticity, genuineness, and deep empathy form the foundation for the way I find connection with my clients. I come from a client-centered approach where unconditional positive regard drives the work we will do. I’ve always believed that people are as different on the inside as they look on the outside and it is my job to connect with that special uniqueness to best support your growth. I approach therapy with compassion, warmth, a sense of humor, and without judgement. My goal is to provide a safe and comforting space for you to process any struggles, big and small, while learning to increase happiness and decrease pain.
(301) 215-3765 View (301) 215-3765
Photo of Robert C Wear II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Robert C Wear II
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878
I enjoy challenges and diverse people and helping those who are in difficult situations. I specialize in responding to crises, trauma and workplace problems. So ideally I approach each situation, person or group with an open mind and a non-anxious-presence. I strive to provide that same level of confidence and trust to people in therapy. My strength is understanding complex systems (the big picture) and finding the little steps to improve things. If you have the courage to change; I’ll work to help you make your life easier using a program of change or the path that works best for you.
I enjoy challenges and diverse people and helping those who are in difficult situations. I specialize in responding to crises, trauma and workplace problems. So ideally I approach each situation, person or group with an open mind and a non-anxious-presence. I strive to provide that same level of confidence and trust to people in therapy. My strength is understanding complex systems (the big picture) and finding the little steps to improve things. If you have the courage to change; I’ll work to help you make your life easier using a program of change or the path that works best for you.
(240) 753-6282 View (240) 753-6282
Photo of Tina Lightner-Morris, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Potomac, MD
Tina Lightner-Morris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, DMin, MS, LCPC, NBCC, IAYT-C
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Thank You. We will design a healing journey that is uniquely yours! Specializing in trauma resolution and spiritually integrated psychotherapy. Working together considering all factors of mind, body, and spirit. Honoring chronic illness; reviewing your spiritual life or lack of; what you eat or don't; your thoughts and what you are afraid to think; how you move or are unable to move; what you vision for your-Self and what gets in the way. Acknowledging the great mystery of suffering and how to find meaning. Exploring your resiliency and your innate capacity to heal - seeking your strengths and what brings joy and happiness!
Thank You. We will design a healing journey that is uniquely yours! Specializing in trauma resolution and spiritually integrated psychotherapy. Working together considering all factors of mind, body, and spirit. Honoring chronic illness; reviewing your spiritual life or lack of; what you eat or don't; your thoughts and what you are afraid to think; how you move or are unable to move; what you vision for your-Self and what gets in the way. Acknowledging the great mystery of suffering and how to find meaning. Exploring your resiliency and your innate capacity to heal - seeking your strengths and what brings joy and happiness!
(301) 637-0477 View (301) 637-0477
Photo of David Jun Selleh, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Potomac, MD
David Jun Selleh
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Potomac, MD 20878
I am a curious and compassionate psychotherapist, calm and gently direct. I support individuals, couples, and families in more fully connecting with self and others. My style draws primarily from Gestalt: an experiential, relational, here-and-now-oriented, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed approach. This might look like mindfulness, somatic/body process, role-play, enactment, dreams, parts work, and other creative experiments. I also fluidly integrate Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Psychedelic/Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, and other frameworks, depending on client needs.
I am a curious and compassionate psychotherapist, calm and gently direct. I support individuals, couples, and families in more fully connecting with self and others. My style draws primarily from Gestalt: an experiential, relational, here-and-now-oriented, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed approach. This might look like mindfulness, somatic/body process, role-play, enactment, dreams, parts work, and other creative experiments. I also fluidly integrate Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Psychedelic/Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, and other frameworks, depending on client needs.
(301) 685-7482 View (301) 685-7482
Photo of Sarah Ofrecio, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Potomac, MD
Sarah Ofrecio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Potomac, MD 20878
Life can be confusing, lonely, and overwhelming. Reaching out for help is incredibly brave. At Growth Mindset Psychotherapy we offer a warm and compassionate space to process your thoughts and learn skills to navigate life's hardships. I work with teens, adults, and couples facing obstacles such as trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and low self-esteem. Please call for a free 15 minute consultation.
Life can be confusing, lonely, and overwhelming. Reaching out for help is incredibly brave. At Growth Mindset Psychotherapy we offer a warm and compassionate space to process your thoughts and learn skills to navigate life's hardships. I work with teens, adults, and couples facing obstacles such as trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and low self-esteem. Please call for a free 15 minute consultation.
(972) 635-4640 View (972) 635-4640

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jonathan Ladd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Jonathan Ladd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I tailor my approach to my clients' particular situations and unique personalities, drawing from: Imago Therapy (as a Certified Advanced Imago Clinician), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Susan Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and more.
Looking for relationship help? To relieve the pain or find better ways to manage? The "secrets" of dealing skillfully with difficulties, differences and hurts, are not really secrets: you CAN learn these and many more relationship skills if you are curious, motivated and persistent. I'd like to help you: a) address and relieve your most pressing problems, b) set clear, realistic goals, and c) learn to avoid a tremendous amount of headache and heartache in the future. Our collaboration may yield a lifetime of benefits.
I tailor my approach to my clients' particular situations and unique personalities, drawing from: Imago Therapy (as a Certified Advanced Imago Clinician), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Susan Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and more.
Looking for relationship help? To relieve the pain or find better ways to manage? The "secrets" of dealing skillfully with difficulties, differences and hurts, are not really secrets: you CAN learn these and many more relationship skills if you are curious, motivated and persistent. I'd like to help you: a) address and relieve your most pressing problems, b) set clear, realistic goals, and c) learn to avoid a tremendous amount of headache and heartache in the future. Our collaboration may yield a lifetime of benefits.
(301) 278-8681 View (301) 278-8681
Photo of Ellen Carol Singer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Ellen Carol Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
Ellen Singer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has specialized in helping couples and families for 35+ years. She trained with Dr. Richard Schwartz in the evidence-based Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model. She’s also studied and incorporates tools from highly reputable Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and Imago Therapy. She sees all couples and specializes in high conflict, infidelity/affairs, intimacy/sexual relationships, ADHD impact, and coping with parent-related concerns. She also specializes in couples coping with infertiity, connected to adoption, blended families, and LGBTQ families.
Ellen Singer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has specialized in helping couples and families for 35+ years. She trained with Dr. Richard Schwartz in the evidence-based Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model. She’s also studied and incorporates tools from highly reputable Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and Imago Therapy. She sees all couples and specializes in high conflict, infidelity/affairs, intimacy/sexual relationships, ADHD impact, and coping with parent-related concerns. She also specializes in couples coping with infertiity, connected to adoption, blended families, and LGBTQ families.
(240) 702-2188 View (240) 702-2188
Photo of Lizzie Liu, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Potomac, MD
Lizzie Liu
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd(s), LCPC, NCC, CSTIP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850  (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 escaped 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 escaped 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 Deborah Kleiner Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Deborah Kleiner Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Potomac, MD 20854
I'm an advanced Imago couples and singles therapist and instructor.
I believe in the innate goodness of people. Problems arise when we lack the ability to communicate what's really going on within or can't get past defenses to understand another person's feelings or experiences. Most people haven't been taught the skills to be safe listeners and so we grow up believing that others don't have capacity to understand us. I love bringing people closer by teaching them to cross the bridge into the world of others without losing themselves. I teach emotional safety by demonstrating emotional safety and believe breakdowns create opportunities for new breakthroughs.
I'm an advanced Imago couples and singles therapist and instructor.
I believe in the innate goodness of people. Problems arise when we lack the ability to communicate what's really going on within or can't get past defenses to understand another person's feelings or experiences. Most people haven't been taught the skills to be safe listeners and so we grow up believing that others don't have capacity to understand us. I love bringing people closer by teaching them to cross the bridge into the world of others without losing themselves. I teach emotional safety by demonstrating emotional safety and believe breakdowns create opportunities for new breakthroughs.
(301) 476-5906 View (301) 476-5906
Photo of Gail Guttman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Gail Guttman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
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. Leila Jarrahi, Psychologist in North Potomac, MD
Dr. Leila Jarrahi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and have particular interest and skill working with couples and individuals struggling in their relationships.
I am a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington and Texas A&M University trained private practitioner psychologist. In addition to my 25 years of experience, I have a Master’s in Counseling and PhD in Psychology. My intention is to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotional triggers and old patterns of thinking to build insight and tools to make more fulfilling life choices. Together, we can work toward improving mood and communication, helping you build more satisfying relationships.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and have particular interest and skill working with couples and individuals struggling in their relationships.
I am a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington and Texas A&M University trained private practitioner psychologist. In addition to my 25 years of experience, I have a Master’s in Counseling and PhD in Psychology. My intention is to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotional triggers and old patterns of thinking to build insight and tools to make more fulfilling life choices. Together, we can work toward improving mood and communication, helping you build more satisfying relationships.
(301) 882-1440 View (301) 882-1440
Photo of Vivian Levi, Counselor in North Potomac, MD
Vivian Levi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Are you struggling to find fulfillment and joy in life? Are your interpersonal relationships exhausting you? Do You want your relationships to bring you a feeling of togetherness and contentment but there is too much water under the bridge? Healing from past hurts and creating meaningful, healthy relationships are the bedrock of contentment and emotional well-being. I provide EMDR to help you heal from the past and Imago couples therapy to help you develop meaningful, healthy relationships with your partner and heal from the lasting, painful impact of old pains and resentments.
Are you struggling to find fulfillment and joy in life? Are your interpersonal relationships exhausting you? Do You want your relationships to bring you a feeling of togetherness and contentment but there is too much water under the bridge? Healing from past hurts and creating meaningful, healthy relationships are the bedrock of contentment and emotional well-being. I provide EMDR to help you heal from the past and Imago couples therapy to help you develop meaningful, healthy relationships with your partner and heal from the lasting, painful impact of old pains and resentments.
(240) 547-2578 View (240) 547-2578
Photo of Nancy Hyatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Nancy Hyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20848
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 Melissa D. Marshall, LLC, Counselor in North Potomac, MD
Melissa D. Marshall, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, MBTI-C
Verified Verified
Potomac, MD 20854  (Online Only)
I use CBT, EFT, Imago and other therapeutic methods in my practice.
Are you planning to get married and you want to strengthen your relationship? Or, are you having problems in your marriage? Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Are you trying to determine if you both can stay in your marriage? Is your blended family not blending as well as you hoped? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we can discuss them in-depth and help build your relational skills.
I use CBT, EFT, Imago and other therapeutic methods in my practice.
Are you planning to get married and you want to strengthen your relationship? Or, are you having problems in your marriage? Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Are you trying to determine if you both can stay in your marriage? Is your blended family not blending as well as you hoped? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we can discuss them in-depth and help build your relational skills.
(410) 505-4421 View (410) 505-4421
Photo of Susan Roistacher, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Potomac, MD
Susan Roistacher
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
As a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I focus on personal growth and healing through enhanced communication.
My office feels welcoming, non-judgemental, and confidential. You will have time to express your feelings and thoughts about your situation. I am actively working with you in each session to understand and resolve your problems. I encourage you to take this opportunity to discover new aspects of yourself, better ways of relating to others, and greater satisfaction in life. Individual counseling will help you to understand and change feelings and behaviors that have caused you to suffer and feel disatisfied with life. Couples counseling will help you resolve your relationship problems and conflicts while also discovering the positives in yourself and your partner.
As a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I focus on personal growth and healing through enhanced communication.
My office feels welcoming, non-judgemental, and confidential. You will have time to express your feelings and thoughts about your situation. I am actively working with you in each session to understand and resolve your problems. I encourage you to take this opportunity to discover new aspects of yourself, better ways of relating to others, and greater satisfaction in life. Individual counseling will help you to understand and change feelings and behaviors that have caused you to suffer and feel disatisfied with life. Couples counseling will help you resolve your relationship problems and conflicts while also discovering the positives in yourself and your partner.
(301) 298-5292 View (301) 298-5292
Photo of Megan A Szczepanik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Megan A Szczepanik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I am certified Imago therapist, providing couple's counseling, intensive programs, and weekend workshops.
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime together or are just beginning your journey, relationships provide us with priceless opportunities to learn, grow, and heal. So often, we see conflict and power struggles as “warning signs” rather than precious growth gifts. How can this be when conflict with our partner is so painful? The answer lies in the struggle itself. Beneath the anger, there nearly always lies hurt, disappointment, fear, or sadness. The Imago relationship approach challenges us to embrace our vulnerability and communicate with our partner openly and without fear. When we are heard and truly seen, healing begins.
I am certified Imago therapist, providing couple's counseling, intensive programs, and weekend workshops.
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime together or are just beginning your journey, relationships provide us with priceless opportunities to learn, grow, and heal. So often, we see conflict and power struggles as “warning signs” rather than precious growth gifts. How can this be when conflict with our partner is so painful? The answer lies in the struggle itself. Beneath the anger, there nearly always lies hurt, disappointment, fear, or sadness. The Imago relationship approach challenges us to embrace our vulnerability and communicate with our partner openly and without fear. When we are heard and truly seen, healing begins.
(727) 269-5426 View (727) 269-5426
Photo of Gwen Enfield Pearl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Gwen Enfield Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
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 Sheila A. Litwin, psychotherapy, Counselor in North Potomac, MD
Sheila A. Litwin, psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Potomac, MD 20854
I use my training in Imago Relationships, Gestalt, Voice Dialogue, Dance/Movement, and Group Work, as well as creative processes in therapy.
Fears, anxiety, and depression can be debilitating. I have the ability to listen warmly and compassionately to what you're saying even if you are feeling jumbled or confused. I create a safe space for you to be able to vent. Often having a person listen with understanding of what you might be experiencing can ease your discomfort. I can offer gentle guidance if you are at a crossroad, a turning point or are feeling challenged by others in your life. Relationships are the most important things in our lives, yet often, the most difficult. Better communication skills can help.
I use my training in Imago Relationships, Gestalt, Voice Dialogue, Dance/Movement, and Group Work, as well as creative processes in therapy.
Fears, anxiety, and depression can be debilitating. I have the ability to listen warmly and compassionately to what you're saying even if you are feeling jumbled or confused. I create a safe space for you to be able to vent. Often having a person listen with understanding of what you might be experiencing can ease your discomfort. I can offer gentle guidance if you are at a crossroad, a turning point or are feeling challenged by others in your life. Relationships are the most important things in our lives, yet often, the most difficult. Better communication skills can help.
(301) 983-5101 View (301) 983-5101
Photo of Larkin Plato, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Larkin Plato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Out of the hundreds of therapists listed, how do you know who is right for you? Most likely, you’ll want to talk to an experienced therapist who understands how struggling with stress can lead to feeling depressed, moody, irritable or anxious. Whether, you’ve lost connection with your family or find yourself spending needless energy meeting the expectations of others; you’ll want to talk to a therapist who will help you feel safe and supported.
Out of the hundreds of therapists listed, how do you know who is right for you? Most likely, you’ll want to talk to an experienced therapist who understands how struggling with stress can lead to feeling depressed, moody, irritable or anxious. Whether, you’ve lost connection with your family or find yourself spending needless energy meeting the expectations of others; you’ll want to talk to a therapist who will help you feel safe and supported.
(301) 679-7663 View (301) 679-7663
Photo of Lauren Silberman, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Potomac, MD
Lauren Silberman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Potomac, MD 20854
My office is a place where individuals, couples, families and more can talk through all kinds of relationships with a healthy dose of warmth, encouragement, kindness and humor. I take an active approach, meaning I offer honest dialogue rather than passive listening. I pro-actively help connect the different threads of your life–because no one’s troubles exist in a vacuum. I also respect that while I have expertise in my field, you are the foremost expert on yourself. Whether or not you've been to therapy before, you are welcome.
My office is a place where individuals, couples, families and more can talk through all kinds of relationships with a healthy dose of warmth, encouragement, kindness and humor. I take an active approach, meaning I offer honest dialogue rather than passive listening. I pro-actively help connect the different threads of your life–because no one’s troubles exist in a vacuum. I also respect that while I have expertise in my field, you are the foremost expert on yourself. Whether or not you've been to therapy before, you are welcome.
(301) 960-5531 View (301) 960-5531

See more therapy options for North Potomac

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.