There are no results for therapists in Atkinson

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Kristen Stuhlmueller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Stuhlmueller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
As an Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples to reconnect, heal, and experience full-aliveness again.
We all have parts of ourselves that we don’t fully understand or embrace. Sometimes these aspects of us can create challenges and get in the way of living life with intention, joy, and ease. By developing curiosity and compassion for ourselves and others, we can begin to untangle our stories and view them through new lenses. I work to empower my clients to find meaning and reconnect with their authentic selves. By integrating all parts of ourselves, we can experience incredible transformation. I want to help you find lasting growth and balance, not just temporary relief.
As an Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples to reconnect, heal, and experience full-aliveness again.
We all have parts of ourselves that we don’t fully understand or embrace. Sometimes these aspects of us can create challenges and get in the way of living life with intention, joy, and ease. By developing curiosity and compassion for ourselves and others, we can begin to untangle our stories and view them through new lenses. I work to empower my clients to find meaning and reconnect with their authentic selves. By integrating all parts of ourselves, we can experience incredible transformation. I want to help you find lasting growth and balance, not just temporary relief.
(919) 343-9158 View (919) 343-9158
Photo of Charlene J Baca, MSW, ASW, LCSWA
Charlene J Baca
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to cope with life? Zoom right in, and I will reserve a space for you. I am prepared to listen, motivate, and help you resolve the difficult challenges in your life. Whatever struggles you are going through, I am here to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take back your life. The first step is to get to know you and your current needs so that I can help you accomplish your life goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to cope with life? Zoom right in, and I will reserve a space for you. I am prepared to listen, motivate, and help you resolve the difficult challenges in your life. Whatever struggles you are going through, I am here to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take back your life. The first step is to get to know you and your current needs so that I can help you accomplish your life goals.
(909) 212-0050 View (909) 212-0050
Photo of Lori Brinkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Brinkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
(704) 753-8240 View (704) 753-8240
Photo of Windy Ezzell - Inner Solutions Counseling Center, LCMHC, LCSW, PhD, LCAS, LMFT
Inner Solutions Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCSW, PhD, LCAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Welcome to Inner Solutions! Are you seeking a compassionate and collaborative approach to mental health with experienced counselors and psychologists who value community? We are a local wellness center who has served our community since 2002 in a safe and inclusive environment, where your unique life experiences are acknowledged and respected. Our goal is to create and hold space with you to foster a sense of clarity. Our clients come to us with a desire for personal growth and tools to navigate life. We are honored to offer online virtual counseling in North Carolina and South Carolina with in person at our Wilmington, NC office.
Welcome to Inner Solutions! Are you seeking a compassionate and collaborative approach to mental health with experienced counselors and psychologists who value community? We are a local wellness center who has served our community since 2002 in a safe and inclusive environment, where your unique life experiences are acknowledged and respected. Our goal is to create and hold space with you to foster a sense of clarity. Our clients come to us with a desire for personal growth and tools to navigate life. We are honored to offer online virtual counseling in North Carolina and South Carolina with in person at our Wilmington, NC office.
(910) 387-4355 View (910) 387-4355
Photo of Suzanna Marie Nagy, MA, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanna Marie Nagy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willow Spring, NC 27592
I work with individual adult/child clients and couples who are facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, loss, trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and challenges at work or in relationships. I have counseled adults, couples, and groups in community-based and school-based mental health, as well as private practice. I have also conducted in-depth research on trauma, hopelessness, empathy, attachment, and intimacy. Above all, I believe that my clients, not I, hold the key to their growth and that emotional pain and anxiety, when given respect and non-judgmental attention, can often provide some of the best opportunities for learning.
I work with individual adult/child clients and couples who are facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, loss, trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and challenges at work or in relationships. I have counseled adults, couples, and groups in community-based and school-based mental health, as well as private practice. I have also conducted in-depth research on trauma, hopelessness, empathy, attachment, and intimacy. Above all, I believe that my clients, not I, hold the key to their growth and that emotional pain and anxiety, when given respect and non-judgmental attention, can often provide some of the best opportunities for learning.
(919) 373-6795 View (919) 373-6795
Photo of Gayla Jones - Gayla Jones, PhD,LCMHC/Finding The Balance Therapy, PhD, LCMHC
Gayla Jones, PhD,LCMHC/Finding The Balance Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
My theoretical approach to counseling emphasizes the collaboration between therapist and client together; the client is helped to discover misconceptions about themselves as it relates to his/her thoughts and beliefs using therapeutic techniques of practice and developing coping skills to be used in "the moment." I'm an empathetic, accepting, and genuine, who focuses on encouragement of a person’s self-awareness, exploration of the here and now and assist in resolving problems. Integrating techniques proven to be evidenced based practices based on clients individual needs to promote positive outcomes of where the client wants to be.
My theoretical approach to counseling emphasizes the collaboration between therapist and client together; the client is helped to discover misconceptions about themselves as it relates to his/her thoughts and beliefs using therapeutic techniques of practice and developing coping skills to be used in "the moment." I'm an empathetic, accepting, and genuine, who focuses on encouragement of a person’s self-awareness, exploration of the here and now and assist in resolving problems. Integrating techniques proven to be evidenced based practices based on clients individual needs to promote positive outcomes of where the client wants to be.
(984) 600-7191 View (984) 600-7191
Photo of Elizabeth Caldwell - Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, LCSW, LCASA, CSOTP, TFCBT, NCCPE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CSOTP, TFCBT, NCCPE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC (CCCS) is a counseling and consulting agency dedicated to clinician development and mental health treatment. Although CCCS specializes in treatment for sex offenders, individuals with problematic sexualized behavior, and victims of trauma, the agency also provides specialized outpatient therapy, employee assistance services, and services for individuals suffering from addiction. Parenting education classes are also available to assist parents with managing and coping with their children and/or adolescent behavioral deficits, addictions, and/or mental health disorder(s).
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC (CCCS) is a counseling and consulting agency dedicated to clinician development and mental health treatment. Although CCCS specializes in treatment for sex offenders, individuals with problematic sexualized behavior, and victims of trauma, the agency also provides specialized outpatient therapy, employee assistance services, and services for individuals suffering from addiction. Parenting education classes are also available to assist parents with managing and coping with their children and/or adolescent behavioral deficits, addictions, and/or mental health disorder(s).
(910) 401-2998 View (910) 401-2998
Photo of Mary F Summerlin - Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
(910) 378-3685 View (910) 378-3685
Photo of Barbara Wyman Pherribo - Barbara W. Pherribo, LCMHC, LCMHC, NCC
Barbara W. Pherribo, LCMHC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
Are you currently experiencing separation, divorce or the ending of a relationship? I specialize in helping people navigate challenging life transitions, working through difficult emotions and taking steps to move forward. I work with individuals on changing behavioral patterns that are causing distress. My goal is to develop a supportive therapeutic relationship to work collaboratively towards your goals. My expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, self worth and family/relationship issues. Working together, through the therapeutic process, we will transform current challenges into opportunities for growth and learning.
Are you currently experiencing separation, divorce or the ending of a relationship? I specialize in helping people navigate challenging life transitions, working through difficult emotions and taking steps to move forward. I work with individuals on changing behavioral patterns that are causing distress. My goal is to develop a supportive therapeutic relationship to work collaboratively towards your goals. My expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, self worth and family/relationship issues. Working together, through the therapeutic process, we will transform current challenges into opportunities for growth and learning.
(919) 429-7461 View (919) 429-7461
Photo of Windy Ezzell, MA, LCMHC
Windy Ezzell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Welcome! I'm licensed in the state of N.C. as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years experience working with children, adults, couples and families. I'm excited you're taking the steps for your wellness and self care! My training, experience, and general counseling practice include working with folks on trauma, depression, anxiety and other life changes, so they may live healthy and productive lives. My practice also includes, grief, all aspects of building your family, TFMR, miscarriage, reproductive health across the lifespan (birth to 100!) pregnancy loss, (In)fertility, and the impact on all parts of SELF.
Welcome! I'm licensed in the state of N.C. as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years experience working with children, adults, couples and families. I'm excited you're taking the steps for your wellness and self care! My training, experience, and general counseling practice include working with folks on trauma, depression, anxiety and other life changes, so they may live healthy and productive lives. My practice also includes, grief, all aspects of building your family, TFMR, miscarriage, reproductive health across the lifespan (birth to 100!) pregnancy loss, (In)fertility, and the impact on all parts of SELF.
(910) 631-6826 x101 View (910) 631-6826 x101
Photo of Jacqueline Angela Heiny - Jacqueline Heiny/ Lake Mary Counseling LLC, MS, LMHC, CCTP, QS, Counselor
Jacqueline Heiny/ Lake Mary Counseling LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Our Ideal client is a couple or individual ready to grow and improve their relationship or reach your goals of reducing, stress, depressive and anxiety symptoms. We provide positive reinforcement and emotional support to all of our clients. All of our clinicians are pleasant and very empathetic clinicians. We strive in helping you leave a better, calmer and hopeful person with your life and in a relationship that feels healthy and respectful. Quality conversations are so needed to repair things that have been said or when you have been ignored long enough. We have 15 clinicians some bilingual and many EMDR trained.
Our Ideal client is a couple or individual ready to grow and improve their relationship or reach your goals of reducing, stress, depressive and anxiety symptoms. We provide positive reinforcement and emotional support to all of our clients. All of our clinicians are pleasant and very empathetic clinicians. We strive in helping you leave a better, calmer and hopeful person with your life and in a relationship that feels healthy and respectful. Quality conversations are so needed to repair things that have been said or when you have been ignored long enough. We have 15 clinicians some bilingual and many EMDR trained.
(689) 215-7495 View (689) 215-7495
Photo of Natalie Campbell (Smith), PsyD, LLC, PsyPact, Psychologist
Natalie Campbell (Smith)
Psychologist, PsyD, LLC, PsyPact
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
Nationwide TELE-HEALTH PROVIDED. Symptoms caused by depression, anxiety, trauma, transitions, divorce, addictions, and mental illness can impair one's confidence and clarity of sound mind and body. I offer a person-centered approach that allows for persons to explore themselves in a safe and nonjudgemental space. Given that each person is unique with varying needs, the type of intervention and skills will vary. CBT, hypnosis, and client-centered approach are some of the modalities offered. It is essential that you feel safe; therefore, our relationship is an ongoing mutual exchange of clear communication and understanding.
Nationwide TELE-HEALTH PROVIDED. Symptoms caused by depression, anxiety, trauma, transitions, divorce, addictions, and mental illness can impair one's confidence and clarity of sound mind and body. I offer a person-centered approach that allows for persons to explore themselves in a safe and nonjudgemental space. Given that each person is unique with varying needs, the type of intervention and skills will vary. CBT, hypnosis, and client-centered approach are some of the modalities offered. It is essential that you feel safe; therefore, our relationship is an ongoing mutual exchange of clear communication and understanding.
(540) 923-0947 View (540) 923-0947
Photo of Andrea Garcia, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
Hi there! I'm so excited to connect with you. I'm a bilingual Latina and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). I offer therapy in both English and Spanish to teens, young adults, and couples. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, family dynamics, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and managing stress. My goal is to create a personalized therapeutic journey for each person, centered around what resonates most with their individual needs and experiences while creating a warm, compassionate, and comfortable therapeutic space.
Hi there! I'm so excited to connect with you. I'm a bilingual Latina and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). I offer therapy in both English and Spanish to teens, young adults, and couples. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, family dynamics, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and managing stress. My goal is to create a personalized therapeutic journey for each person, centered around what resonates most with their individual needs and experiences while creating a warm, compassionate, and comfortable therapeutic space.
(984) 223-9417 View (984) 223-9417
Photo of Renee Watson Adams - Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS
Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
Our Therapists are Accepting Medicaid and ChampVA....You Can Live Beyond It ... Let us show you how! We have amazing therapist with skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, we are easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, we will be your last therapist. We listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson
Our Therapists are Accepting Medicaid and ChampVA....You Can Live Beyond It ... Let us show you how! We have amazing therapist with skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, we are easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, we will be your last therapist. We listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson
(919) 939-2843 View (919) 939-2843
Photo of Colleen Cash, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Cash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
Hello! I am a counselor licensed in North and South Carolina with over 22 years of experience. I’ve worked with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, family and parenting issues, ADHD, behavioral issues, and more. I determine effective therapy strategies for each unique client, and employ a combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Schema Focused, Narrative, and Brief Solution Focused techniques. My clients tell me they appreciate that I am direct, honest, and hold them accountable, while also being compassionate. I am very practical and teach techniques that can be applied to most all situations in life.
Hello! I am a counselor licensed in North and South Carolina with over 22 years of experience. I’ve worked with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, family and parenting issues, ADHD, behavioral issues, and more. I determine effective therapy strategies for each unique client, and employ a combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Schema Focused, Narrative, and Brief Solution Focused techniques. My clients tell me they appreciate that I am direct, honest, and hold them accountable, while also being compassionate. I am very practical and teach techniques that can be applied to most all situations in life.
(704) 327-6147 View (704) 327-6147
Photo of Brienna Thompson, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brienna Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
For those with Combat Stress or Trauma, traditional therapy models tend to fail because they are based on cognitive reframing, emotional intelligence and empathy...something that was conditioned out of you and never put back. Being asked to "think positively," "do your deep breathing," and "use your coping skills" rarely works if you are not taught the WHY. That's where psycho-education comes in. Humans have an intrinsic need to understand the purpose behind what we are doing for it to hold any meaning, let alone be implemented. Book with me by clicking on my website!
For those with Combat Stress or Trauma, traditional therapy models tend to fail because they are based on cognitive reframing, emotional intelligence and empathy...something that was conditioned out of you and never put back. Being asked to "think positively," "do your deep breathing," and "use your coping skills" rarely works if you are not taught the WHY. That's where psycho-education comes in. Humans have an intrinsic need to understand the purpose behind what we are doing for it to hold any meaning, let alone be implemented. Book with me by clicking on my website!
(910) 629-4437 View (910) 629-4437
Photo of Carol Lynn Battle-Ferguson - Carol Battle-Ferguson, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Battle-Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27658  (Online Only)
Calling All Women, especially Single Women. You know, sometimes life will throw you a curve, making it difficult to get back on track. I have been counseling for over (20) years. My primary focus has been with concerns on anxiety, depression, grief and self-esteem. Clients' counseling issues include personal, emotional, professional, and relationship problems. When appropriate, I will use Christian Counseling. I will use play therapy, and expressive art therapy techniques with clients. I want you to be healed, mind, body and soul.
Calling All Women, especially Single Women. You know, sometimes life will throw you a curve, making it difficult to get back on track. I have been counseling for over (20) years. My primary focus has been with concerns on anxiety, depression, grief and self-esteem. Clients' counseling issues include personal, emotional, professional, and relationship problems. When appropriate, I will use Christian Counseling. I will use play therapy, and expressive art therapy techniques with clients. I want you to be healed, mind, body and soul.
(919) 214-5435 View (919) 214-5435
Photo of Paige Armstrong, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
'Go confidently in the direction of your dreams...Live the life you've imagined' --Thoreau. Whether you are "surviving or thriving", I am skilled in helping you bring greater fulfillment and wholeness to your life. I partner with high achievers and their loved ones on their journey from self-discovery to enrichment-who have experienced addiction and/or trauma-to “dis the dysfunction™” and build healthy, connected, intimate, thriving relationships in life and love. If you want to heal the “roots” of shame, guilt, loneliness, unworthiness, inadequacy, not good enough, or having to be perfect- that block healthy love- I teach you how!
'Go confidently in the direction of your dreams...Live the life you've imagined' --Thoreau. Whether you are "surviving or thriving", I am skilled in helping you bring greater fulfillment and wholeness to your life. I partner with high achievers and their loved ones on their journey from self-discovery to enrichment-who have experienced addiction and/or trauma-to “dis the dysfunction™” and build healthy, connected, intimate, thriving relationships in life and love. If you want to heal the “roots” of shame, guilt, loneliness, unworthiness, inadequacy, not good enough, or having to be perfect- that block healthy love- I teach you how!
(919) 429-7620 View (919) 429-7620
Photo of Laila Alsaffar Daniel, MA, LCMHC, CCMHC, CADC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laila Alsaffar Daniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CCMHC, CADC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28301  (Online Only)
My typical client sees me for Telehealth, self-pay sessions during their workday to seek better ways to grow, communicate & improve their relationships. Many of my clients are normal or higher functioning adults leading successful lives simply wanting to thrive in life! I also see clients struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders. Telehealth couple's counseling is a unique niche as well. I've completed Level 3 Practicum Training In Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Couples may be in different locations as long as they are calling in from a state I'm licensed to work. I've worked with a variety of couples since '08.
My typical client sees me for Telehealth, self-pay sessions during their workday to seek better ways to grow, communicate & improve their relationships. Many of my clients are normal or higher functioning adults leading successful lives simply wanting to thrive in life! I also see clients struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders. Telehealth couple's counseling is a unique niche as well. I've completed Level 3 Practicum Training In Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Couples may be in different locations as long as they are calling in from a state I'm licensed to work. I've worked with a variety of couples since '08.
(910) 720-6830 View (910) 720-6830
Photo of Linda Sue Bell, MEd, LCMHC
Linda Sue Bell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513  (Online Only)
You wouldn't be reading this right now if you thought everything in your life was perfect. I would be honored to meet you and start working on what isn't working well. Life isn't easy, but can be full of good experiences if we heal those places that are wounded within us and relearn who we really are. Not all the messages we've internalized about ourselves are true, yet we live our lives as if they are. Whether your concerns are around relationships, parenting, feeling stuck, depression, anxiety, grief, or so many other possibilities, there are ways to heal and put these issues in the past.
You wouldn't be reading this right now if you thought everything in your life was perfect. I would be honored to meet you and start working on what isn't working well. Life isn't easy, but can be full of good experiences if we heal those places that are wounded within us and relearn who we really are. Not all the messages we've internalized about ourselves are true, yet we live our lives as if they are. Whether your concerns are around relationships, parenting, feeling stuck, depression, anxiety, grief, or so many other possibilities, there are ways to heal and put these issues in the past.
(919) 343-0426 View (919) 343-0426

See more therapy options for Atkinson

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.