Imago Therapists in Clay County, NC

There are no results for therapists in Clay County

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

Online Therapists

Photo of Leta Bell, MS, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leta Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I am interactive, solution focused and trained in EMDR, the Gottman couples method and Imago Therapy.
Hello, Thank you for visiting my page. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, unresolved grief, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, while being supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open, honest, supportive, and curious. I view psychotherapy as a framework for identifying, understanding, and working through problems that cause people to feel stuck, helpless or insecure about their lives. Ultimately, I consider the goal of psychotherapy as empowering others to reach aspired levels of purpose.
I am interactive, solution focused and trained in EMDR, the Gottman couples method and Imago Therapy.
Hello, Thank you for visiting my page. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, unresolved grief, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, while being supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open, honest, supportive, and curious. I view psychotherapy as a framework for identifying, understanding, and working through problems that cause people to feel stuck, helpless or insecure about their lives. Ultimately, I consider the goal of psychotherapy as empowering others to reach aspired levels of purpose.
(918) 409-0951 View (918) 409-0951
Photo of Sondra Harry, PsyD, MS, RN, Psychologist
Sondra Harry
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, RN
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805
Each person comes to the office with unique needs and deserves respect to be heard and understood. Working collaboratively, I offer marriage counseling, along with many other services such as depression and anxiety treatment. As an Imago therapist, we recognize that conflict is growth waiting to happen. I often observe growth and healing in people and feel privileged to have accompanied many on their healing journey. By caring for them, I am personally stretched and shaped through their suffering and in turn only deepens my compassion for others. In part, this creates my tapestry that I hope reflects Grace in paying wisdom forward.
Each person comes to the office with unique needs and deserves respect to be heard and understood. Working collaboratively, I offer marriage counseling, along with many other services such as depression and anxiety treatment. As an Imago therapist, we recognize that conflict is growth waiting to happen. I often observe growth and healing in people and feel privileged to have accompanied many on their healing journey. By caring for them, I am personally stretched and shaped through their suffering and in turn only deepens my compassion for others. In part, this creates my tapestry that I hope reflects Grace in paying wisdom forward.
(828) 604-9174 View (828) 604-9174
Photo of Carol Greenberger, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
I use Imago, EFT, and Family Systems, to help couples get to the root of their problems.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
I use Imago, EFT, and Family Systems, to help couples get to the root of their problems.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of Merinda Cutshaw, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Merinda Cutshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and growth in your life. It is a brave thing to ask for help and work toward real change and I am willing to help you do that. I have six years of experience with group, individual, couples, and family therapy. At River of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness Center I provide SAIOP group therapy (Matrix Model), mental health group therapy, individual, couples, and family therapy. Primary models of individual treatment are CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brief Solution Focused therapy. Couples therapy models of treatment are Imago and Gottman Theory. Call today!
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and growth in your life. It is a brave thing to ask for help and work toward real change and I am willing to help you do that. I have six years of experience with group, individual, couples, and family therapy. At River of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness Center I provide SAIOP group therapy (Matrix Model), mental health group therapy, individual, couples, and family therapy. Primary models of individual treatment are CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brief Solution Focused therapy. Couples therapy models of treatment are Imago and Gottman Theory. Call today!
(828) 471-4515 View (828) 471-4515
Photo of Valerie Giberman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Giberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
My individual therapy work, also based on Imago Relationship Therapy, is for those who would like to attract, and be attracted to, someone with whom they can form a successful and harmonious intimate relationship.
My aspiration is to attract the couples that I can help the most to my practice of Imago Relationship Therapy. These may be couples who are in a basically sound relationship that they would like to deepen and invigorate, couples who are stuck in unfulfilling patterns that they would like to transform, and couples who are wondering whether it is too late to recover the feelings of closeness and vitality that they once had. What all of these couples share is a mutual willingness and perseverance to do the work required, and to put in the time needed, to discover the full potential in their relationships.
My individual therapy work, also based on Imago Relationship Therapy, is for those who would like to attract, and be attracted to, someone with whom they can form a successful and harmonious intimate relationship.
My aspiration is to attract the couples that I can help the most to my practice of Imago Relationship Therapy. These may be couples who are in a basically sound relationship that they would like to deepen and invigorate, couples who are stuck in unfulfilling patterns that they would like to transform, and couples who are wondering whether it is too late to recover the feelings of closeness and vitality that they once had. What all of these couples share is a mutual willingness and perseverance to do the work required, and to put in the time needed, to discover the full potential in their relationships.
(828) 368-9910 View (828) 368-9910
Photo of Amy Kathryn Parrish, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Kathryn Parrish
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792  (Online Only)
With couples, I draw heavily on Imago and EFT.
My life's passion is working with women in transitional times of their lives and all young adults and middle-aged adults as they move into new life stages or search for a fulfilling career. I greatly enjoy working with LGTBQIA+ clients and with the Latino and immigrant community, and I am also passionate about working with couples, helping partners improve communication and gain insight into how our pasts affect current relationships. I have a special interest in helping people with relationship issues as well as issues related to break-up and divorce, and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and parents.
With couples, I draw heavily on Imago and EFT.
My life's passion is working with women in transitional times of their lives and all young adults and middle-aged adults as they move into new life stages or search for a fulfilling career. I greatly enjoy working with LGTBQIA+ clients and with the Latino and immigrant community, and I am also passionate about working with couples, helping partners improve communication and gain insight into how our pasts affect current relationships. I have a special interest in helping people with relationship issues as well as issues related to break-up and divorce, and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and parents.
(828) 373-8320 View (828) 373-8320
Photo of Aimee Elise Mercier, LCSW, MA, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Elise Mercier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787
Waitlist for new clients
All talked out? Many of my clients have decades of experience in therapy, yet have found little relief from their anxiety or depression. I work with adults and couples who are ready to go deeper into the unconscious mind to heal old wounds, change outdated patterns and cultivate a compassionate relationship with themselves. My clients have great insight, and are ready to finally embody and feel what they cognitively know to be true: “I am safe. I am loveable. I am enough.” Deeply knowing yourself is the greatest gift you can give your heart. Learning to regulate your nervous system is a close second.
All talked out? Many of my clients have decades of experience in therapy, yet have found little relief from their anxiety or depression. I work with adults and couples who are ready to go deeper into the unconscious mind to heal old wounds, change outdated patterns and cultivate a compassionate relationship with themselves. My clients have great insight, and are ready to finally embody and feel what they cognitively know to be true: “I am safe. I am loveable. I am enough.” Deeply knowing yourself is the greatest gift you can give your heart. Learning to regulate your nervous system is a close second.
(828) 672-2366 View (828) 672-2366
Photo of George Rinker, MS, MDiv, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
George Rinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MDiv, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience; I value the uniqueness of each individual and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas of growth, vent feelings, explore possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and cultural differences. Success Starts with YOU and Counseling can help !
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience; I value the uniqueness of each individual and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas of growth, vent feelings, explore possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and cultural differences. Success Starts with YOU and Counseling can help !
(844) 406-1326 View (844) 406-1326
Photo of Jillian Beth Foster, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Beth Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I offer individual, couples and family Psychotherapy and Life Coaching. I would like to join with you in creating a life that brings you as much joy as possible, and to help you remove the barriers that have blocked your heart from flowing. It is my passion to create a safe space for you to experience deep heart, mind and soul healing. I would like to join together with you to tune in and trust your natural instincts, the wisdom of your organism, to flow into a more free, joyful, fulfilling, authentic, wildly wonderful existence as a human being that you were uniquely born to live.
I offer individual, couples and family Psychotherapy and Life Coaching. I would like to join with you in creating a life that brings you as much joy as possible, and to help you remove the barriers that have blocked your heart from flowing. It is my passion to create a safe space for you to experience deep heart, mind and soul healing. I would like to join together with you to tune in and trust your natural instincts, the wisdom of your organism, to flow into a more free, joyful, fulfilling, authentic, wildly wonderful existence as a human being that you were uniquely born to live.
(828) 743-8366 View (828) 743-8366
Photo of Charlotte Hanks, LCMHC
Charlotte Hanks
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
You are perhaps feeling disconnected from yourself and others. I can help you to "zoom in" and "zoom out" to better investigate what's happening, what is important to you, and to help you to shift towards your authentic self. My passion in this work comes from guiding individuals toward life goals, healing, growth, and discovery within. I combine various modalities tailored to address blockages and increase momentum in your life. Perhaps you are not yet on your own timeline or feel like you are living someone else's life.
You are perhaps feeling disconnected from yourself and others. I can help you to "zoom in" and "zoom out" to better investigate what's happening, what is important to you, and to help you to shift towards your authentic self. My passion in this work comes from guiding individuals toward life goals, healing, growth, and discovery within. I combine various modalities tailored to address blockages and increase momentum in your life. Perhaps you are not yet on your own timeline or feel like you are living someone else's life.
(828) 332-5590 View (828) 332-5590
Photo of Nicole M Dixon, MA, LCMHC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole M Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
It’s not necessary to be in crisis to seek counseling, but it’s often the push that we need to go deeper. Something wakes us from our auto pilot existence and we feel a hunger for self-examination. Whatever made you take this next step, I believe I can help. I know this can feel overwhelming...but its just another part of the journey. A search for your authentic self or for a balanced, healthy space to challenge yourself to grow and be more. You can be changed by this experience. You will find answers and more questions... But nothing changes & no discoveries are made without beginning...Read more at www.createamindfullife.com
It’s not necessary to be in crisis to seek counseling, but it’s often the push that we need to go deeper. Something wakes us from our auto pilot existence and we feel a hunger for self-examination. Whatever made you take this next step, I believe I can help. I know this can feel overwhelming...but its just another part of the journey. A search for your authentic self or for a balanced, healthy space to challenge yourself to grow and be more. You can be changed by this experience. You will find answers and more questions... But nothing changes & no discoveries are made without beginning...Read more at www.createamindfullife.com
(828) 469-0621 View (828) 469-0621
Photo of Matthew Snyder - Full Circle Community Wellness, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Full Circle Community Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
(828) 483-4232 View (828) 483-4232
Photo of Sarah Elisabeth Hacker, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Elisabeth Hacker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leicester, NC 28748  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed LCSW, LCAS, and CCS, and have been a social worker since 2014. I have worked with many individuals, to include people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. As a queer cis woman, I specialize in serving the LBGTQIA+ population. I have a laid back approach, and believe in the importance of building rapport with the people I serve. Life on life's terms can be challenging, and you do not have to face it alone.
I am a licensed LCSW, LCAS, and CCS, and have been a social worker since 2014. I have worked with many individuals, to include people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. As a queer cis woman, I specialize in serving the LBGTQIA+ population. I have a laid back approach, and believe in the importance of building rapport with the people I serve. Life on life's terms can be challenging, and you do not have to face it alone.
(828) 268-3678 View (828) 268-3678
Photo of Susan Grace Rainsford - Susan Rainsford MA LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Rainsford MA LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I know it can take courage to seek therapy and I am here to help. I would be honored to guide and assist you towards positive change. I have been enjoying providing Psychotherapy in Asheville since 2000. I provide caring and professional therapy for Individuals (Adults, Adolescents & Children), Couples and Families. I am happy to serve our diverse community including the LGBTQ+ community. I have extensive experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills, couples conflicts, life transitions, divorce/separation, post traumatic stress, ADHD, bi-polar, and many other issues.
I know it can take courage to seek therapy and I am here to help. I would be honored to guide and assist you towards positive change. I have been enjoying providing Psychotherapy in Asheville since 2000. I provide caring and professional therapy for Individuals (Adults, Adolescents & Children), Couples and Families. I am happy to serve our diverse community including the LGBTQ+ community. I have extensive experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills, couples conflicts, life transitions, divorce/separation, post traumatic stress, ADHD, bi-polar, and many other issues.
(828) 215-4605 x828215 View (828) 215-4605 x828215
Photo of Joyce Gayles, PhD, Psychologist
Joyce Gayles
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist and success coach with over 30 years experience in helping people to solve problems, grow, and transform their lives. As a psychotherapist, I work via telephone, video conferencing, and office visits with clients residing in Texas and North Carolina. I use a variety of approaches and techniques to help you resolve your problems and to reach you full potential. I provide guidance & knowledgeable feedback to support you to reach your goals and discover your answers to life's often perplexing questions. I work as your ally in making important life decisions and changes.
I am a clinical psychologist and success coach with over 30 years experience in helping people to solve problems, grow, and transform their lives. As a psychotherapist, I work via telephone, video conferencing, and office visits with clients residing in Texas and North Carolina. I use a variety of approaches and techniques to help you resolve your problems and to reach you full potential. I provide guidance & knowledgeable feedback to support you to reach your goals and discover your answers to life's often perplexing questions. I work as your ally in making important life decisions and changes.
(713) 338-9005 View (713) 338-9005
Photo of Hannah Kupsov, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Kupsov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
In an unprecedented world, we have unprecedented feelings. Whether you’re still healing, or sprouting beyond wreckage, it would be a tremendous honor to be there with you. Every person I meet has a special set of challenges and a unique personality. As we get to know each other, I can tailor our approach to therapy over time to pull from different bases of knowledge. I have an ongoing commitment with myself to decolonizing my therapy practice. Together, we can achieve the velocity of escaping the stories we have been socialized into without our permission.
In an unprecedented world, we have unprecedented feelings. Whether you’re still healing, or sprouting beyond wreckage, it would be a tremendous honor to be there with you. Every person I meet has a special set of challenges and a unique personality. As we get to know each other, I can tailor our approach to therapy over time to pull from different bases of knowledge. I have an ongoing commitment with myself to decolonizing my therapy practice. Together, we can achieve the velocity of escaping the stories we have been socialized into without our permission.
(828) 332-5357 View (828) 332-5357
Photo of Suzanne Lowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Lowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have been an LCSW for over 25 years, and have enjoyed working with children, adolescents, families and individuals. I am mainly focusing on adult/young adult individual work currently, and I enjoy watching clients heal and transform their lives. I tend to work with clients who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Life transitions, and relationship issues. My style as a therapist is more of a therapist/coach. That being said, I listen well, and only "coach" when the client is ready. I strive to look at the whole client and all of their parts, and meet them there, and then help them to get to where they want to be.
I have been an LCSW for over 25 years, and have enjoyed working with children, adolescents, families and individuals. I am mainly focusing on adult/young adult individual work currently, and I enjoy watching clients heal and transform their lives. I tend to work with clients who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Life transitions, and relationship issues. My style as a therapist is more of a therapist/coach. That being said, I listen well, and only "coach" when the client is ready. I strive to look at the whole client and all of their parts, and meet them there, and then help them to get to where they want to be.
(828) 809-0245 View (828) 809-0245
Photo of Sheila Mary McKeon, MA, LPC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheila Mary McKeon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
I connect easily with clients to feel lighter and clearer in their minds, body, and Spirit. I work with people with stressful careers in medicine, law, finance, and small businesses. Knowing the necessity of keeping a clear head and calm body, yet have been struggling with heartbreak, anxiety, fears, loss and grief that has created overwhelming stress and expectations that limits functioning. It is a challenging balancing act with career, family, relationships, along with finding some quiet time to relax. I help you master these challenges with a very confidential, (no insurance or electronic records) safe, and caring environment.
I connect easily with clients to feel lighter and clearer in their minds, body, and Spirit. I work with people with stressful careers in medicine, law, finance, and small businesses. Knowing the necessity of keeping a clear head and calm body, yet have been struggling with heartbreak, anxiety, fears, loss and grief that has created overwhelming stress and expectations that limits functioning. It is a challenging balancing act with career, family, relationships, along with finding some quiet time to relax. I help you master these challenges with a very confidential, (no insurance or electronic records) safe, and caring environment.
(828) 536-4117 View (828) 536-4117
Photo of Chris E Carson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris E Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
(804) 651-3941 View (804) 651-3941
Photo of Guy Morganstein - Guy Morganstein - Asheville Counseling Center, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Guy Morganstein - Asheville Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
(828) 337-7549 View (828) 337-7549

See more therapy options for Clay County

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.