Imago Therapists in Rockingham, NC

Photo of Allen Lamont Brooks - Allen Brooks Professional Counseling Service, MA, LPCS, NBCC
Allen Brooks Professional Counseling Service
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LPCS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Rockingham, NC 28379
Hi are you thinking what Im thinking, if so you're probably thinking "GEEZZ" Im tired of searching.. then stop, because you've located the right person at the right time, to help you navigate through your life journey. Everyone has a story to tell and yours is very important & Im ready to listen and ready to do whatever it takes to promote and initiate the needed changes you desire in life at this time.Trauma's often experienced and unrecognized! Instantly we think about hurricanes and earthquakes. Your personal storm, transition or change will be handled with care. Take a look at my website !!!!
Hi are you thinking what Im thinking, if so you're probably thinking "GEEZZ" Im tired of searching.. then stop, because you've located the right person at the right time, to help you navigate through your life journey. Everyone has a story to tell and yours is very important & Im ready to listen and ready to do whatever it takes to promote and initiate the needed changes you desire in life at this time.Trauma's often experienced and unrecognized! Instantly we think about hurricanes and earthquakes. Your personal storm, transition or change will be handled with care. Take a look at my website !!!!
(910) 745-7783 View (910) 745-7783

Online Therapists

Photo of Elaine K Hicks, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine K Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
I am a certified IMAGO THERAPIST utilizing specific techniques for couples issues.
My strengths include a warm and relational manner and a compassionate nature along with experience and intuition, I can help people with relationship issues, including, individuals, couples, families and work related problems. I provide support at all life-stages.I am eclectic while taking into account the particular psycho-dynamics of the individual.I also work extensively with anxiety and depression. I studied at the Harvard Mind and Body Institute. I combine this information into mind body work for anxiety and depression.I have what is most important that is to listen to others with my mind and my heart.
I am a certified IMAGO THERAPIST utilizing specific techniques for couples issues.
My strengths include a warm and relational manner and a compassionate nature along with experience and intuition, I can help people with relationship issues, including, individuals, couples, families and work related problems. I provide support at all life-stages.I am eclectic while taking into account the particular psycho-dynamics of the individual.I also work extensively with anxiety and depression. I studied at the Harvard Mind and Body Institute. I combine this information into mind body work for anxiety and depression.I have what is most important that is to listen to others with my mind and my heart.
(609) 283-2205 View (609) 283-2205
Photo of Kathleen Sheffield, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Sheffield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
This is a collaborative process where feedback is welcomed and reaching your mental health goals is our focus using CBT, EFT, Imago Relationship Theory & DBT.
Offering Relationship Intensives & Pre-Marital Retreats & Sessions! Whether you're navigating a life transition or looking for a change in some area of your life, counseling can provide long term relief and insight.You may notice mental fatigue/fog, intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, difficulty communicating needs, conflict in relationships, chronic pain, difficulty sleeping, or just feel stuck. Learning about the mind-body connection, learn how life events impact our wellbeing, exploring practical strategies for coping, communicating, and connecting. Regain balance and connection with self and others.
This is a collaborative process where feedback is welcomed and reaching your mental health goals is our focus using CBT, EFT, Imago Relationship Theory & DBT.
Offering Relationship Intensives & Pre-Marital Retreats & Sessions! Whether you're navigating a life transition or looking for a change in some area of your life, counseling can provide long term relief and insight.You may notice mental fatigue/fog, intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, difficulty communicating needs, conflict in relationships, chronic pain, difficulty sleeping, or just feel stuck. Learning about the mind-body connection, learn how life events impact our wellbeing, exploring practical strategies for coping, communicating, and connecting. Regain balance and connection with self and others.
(919) 646-6874 View (919) 646-6874
Photo of Kristin Franks, MS, LCMHC, CLC, Counselor
Kristin Franks
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CLC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
I'm skilled in attachment styles, Imago Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, PREPARE/ENRICH, & EMDR, which I implement with a balanced, dynamic, Christian approach.
Are you searching for relationship satisfaction? Has dating been difficult for you? Do you feel unable to experience a mutually loving bond with someone who wants the same things as you do? As an attachment therapist, I love helping people achieve relational fulfillment. Intimacy is challenging, yet rewarding, when you have healthy and secure attachments with others. Whether you're single, dating, or newly married, I'd love to work with you! I can help you understand your attachment style, and how that plays a key role in the formation and development of a healthy, fulfilling relationship with the person you love.
I'm skilled in attachment styles, Imago Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, PREPARE/ENRICH, & EMDR, which I implement with a balanced, dynamic, Christian approach.
Are you searching for relationship satisfaction? Has dating been difficult for you? Do you feel unable to experience a mutually loving bond with someone who wants the same things as you do? As an attachment therapist, I love helping people achieve relational fulfillment. Intimacy is challenging, yet rewarding, when you have healthy and secure attachments with others. Whether you're single, dating, or newly married, I'd love to work with you! I can help you understand your attachment style, and how that plays a key role in the formation and development of a healthy, fulfilling relationship with the person you love.
(336) 443-9464 View (336) 443-9464
Photo of Brenda Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Statesville, NC 28677
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in Imago Relationship Counseling.
Hi. I am Brenda Martin. I am a licensed clinical social work/therapist with thirty years experience. I offer services to children and families, teens, couples, and adults. I understand that contacting a mental health provider can be a frightening situation. I explain to you over the phone what to expect, and work to put you at ease from the first moment we talk. I enjoy assisting people in finding their strengths and utilizing them to overcome the current problems. My office is located in the downtown Statesville, NC area with easy access. I look forward to talking with you.
I have specialized training in Imago Relationship Counseling.
Hi. I am Brenda Martin. I am a licensed clinical social work/therapist with thirty years experience. I offer services to children and families, teens, couples, and adults. I understand that contacting a mental health provider can be a frightening situation. I explain to you over the phone what to expect, and work to put you at ease from the first moment we talk. I enjoy assisting people in finding their strengths and utilizing them to overcome the current problems. My office is located in the downtown Statesville, NC area with easy access. I look forward to talking with you.
(704) 764-1531 View (704) 764-1531
Photo of Karen DuBose, MSN, RN, CS
Karen DuBose
MSN, RN, CS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I am a Certified Imago couples therapist for 25 years (Based on the book "Getting the Love You Want" by Harville Hendrix).
We are meant to be whole and well, with the ability to recover and heal. I help women and men with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I listen, then share information and tools that will help with their specific needs. My clients suffering with anxiety will be taught skills to become more grounded and self assured. My clients experiencing depression are given hope and tools. Couples in crisis or wanting a better relationship can thrive instead of just survive in the model I use. As a RN, I am specifically trained in how the body responds to stress, trauma, and change.
I am a Certified Imago couples therapist for 25 years (Based on the book "Getting the Love You Want" by Harville Hendrix).
We are meant to be whole and well, with the ability to recover and heal. I help women and men with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I listen, then share information and tools that will help with their specific needs. My clients suffering with anxiety will be taught skills to become more grounded and self assured. My clients experiencing depression are given hope and tools. Couples in crisis or wanting a better relationship can thrive instead of just survive in the model I use. As a RN, I am specifically trained in how the body responds to stress, trauma, and change.
(704) 870-4896 View (704) 870-4896
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 Carolyn R Craft, PsyD, MDiv, Counselor
Carolyn R Craft
Counselor, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I also incorporate Psychoanalytic Theory, Compassionate Nonviolent Communication, Heart-Math Theory, Imago Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, EMDR, and where requested, non-religious spiritual counseling, and more.
When your thoughts or actions do not match your feelings, or you find that certain relationships are a problem, it could be time to explore what hidden patterns might be impacting your life. Because you are always in relationship to those in your world, whether family, work, or with a significant other; it is important to find ways to calm overwhelming emotions, overcome negative feelings, develop effective communication skills and discover the real issues in your life. In a non-invasive therapy environment, together we will build permanent resources to support you in being who you truly want to be.
I also incorporate Psychoanalytic Theory, Compassionate Nonviolent Communication, Heart-Math Theory, Imago Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, EMDR, and where requested, non-religious spiritual counseling, and more.
When your thoughts or actions do not match your feelings, or you find that certain relationships are a problem, it could be time to explore what hidden patterns might be impacting your life. Because you are always in relationship to those in your world, whether family, work, or with a significant other; it is important to find ways to calm overwhelming emotions, overcome negative feelings, develop effective communication skills and discover the real issues in your life. In a non-invasive therapy environment, together we will build permanent resources to support you in being who you truly want to be.
(919) 429-7932 View (919) 429-7932
Photo of Michael Rosen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
I have therapy games for children/teens and with couples use an imago framework to better understand and build a more healthy relationship.
I have worked with a very diverse population and like to start with what my clients identify as their needs. Though I'm active and make observations and give guidance, I will quickly make it known to you that I want your feedback even if it is different from mine. This includes my work with adolescents and children as i know they are often reluctant with therapy yet want to be heard and this is how i join with them. Please think of your goals before coming in because this way you can determine if you are satisfied with my services. I am happy at this time to also offer Telepsych therapy sessions as an option
I have therapy games for children/teens and with couples use an imago framework to better understand and build a more healthy relationship.
I have worked with a very diverse population and like to start with what my clients identify as their needs. Though I'm active and make observations and give guidance, I will quickly make it known to you that I want your feedback even if it is different from mine. This includes my work with adolescents and children as i know they are often reluctant with therapy yet want to be heard and this is how i join with them. Please think of your goals before coming in because this way you can determine if you are satisfied with my services. I am happy at this time to also offer Telepsych therapy sessions as an option
(954) 516-1453 View (954) 516-1453
Photo of Ronald A Zumstein, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ronald A Zumstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
I have been a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist since May, 2000.
Over 20 years of working with individuals and couples, I have developed expertise working with a variety of issues, including: low mood, low motivation, anxiety, creative blocks, feeling "stuck" (in any area of life), relationship issues, work or career issues, anger management, addictions, compulsive behavior, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. Together we will work to clarify your goals, and develop a plan that will help you achieve them as quickly as possible. To help you actualize those goals I utilize a variety of modalities, including mindfulness therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducational approaches.
I have been a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist since May, 2000.
Over 20 years of working with individuals and couples, I have developed expertise working with a variety of issues, including: low mood, low motivation, anxiety, creative blocks, feeling "stuck" (in any area of life), relationship issues, work or career issues, anger management, addictions, compulsive behavior, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. Together we will work to clarify your goals, and develop a plan that will help you achieve them as quickly as possible. To help you actualize those goals I utilize a variety of modalities, including mindfulness therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducational approaches.
(919) 283-3480 View (919) 283-3480
Photo of Elizabeth C Hutcheson, LCSW, ACSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth C Hutcheson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I work with couples using Imago Relationship Therapy.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
I work with couples using Imago Relationship Therapy.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
(704) 216-4064 View (704) 216-4064
Photo of Judith S Barnett, PhD, Psychologist
Judith S Barnett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I use many approaches including Imago Relationship Therapy, relationship coaching and other approaches that clients might feel comfortable with.
I have been working successfully with couples and individuals for 20+ years on a variety of topics including depression, relationship issues, and specializing in the areas of communication, extramarital affairs, online infidelity, couples conflict resolution, and divorce prevention. I am very client-centered and value teaming with my clients to work effectively at their comfort level, staying mindful of their wishes while using my clinical skills and modalities.
I use many approaches including Imago Relationship Therapy, relationship coaching and other approaches that clients might feel comfortable with.
I have been working successfully with couples and individuals for 20+ years on a variety of topics including depression, relationship issues, and specializing in the areas of communication, extramarital affairs, online infidelity, couples conflict resolution, and divorce prevention. I am very client-centered and value teaming with my clients to work effectively at their comfort level, staying mindful of their wishes while using my clinical skills and modalities.
(252) 392-0707 View (252) 392-0707
Photo of Peter Basone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Basone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
With couples, I have found Imago therapy effective to stop blame, criticism, and reduce conflict.
With over 33 years of clinical psychotherapeutic experience, I am a highly-skilled and compassionate licensed clinical psychotherapist who works with adults experiencing a variety of mood disorders and mental health challenges. My focus is dedicated to providing exceptional care and effective psychotherapeutic treatment to assist my client(s) with addressing their troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Fortunately, I have the ability to establish rapport quickly, build trust, and relate to a diverse client population, regarding race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
With couples, I have found Imago therapy effective to stop blame, criticism, and reduce conflict.
With over 33 years of clinical psychotherapeutic experience, I am a highly-skilled and compassionate licensed clinical psychotherapist who works with adults experiencing a variety of mood disorders and mental health challenges. My focus is dedicated to providing exceptional care and effective psychotherapeutic treatment to assist my client(s) with addressing their troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Fortunately, I have the ability to establish rapport quickly, build trust, and relate to a diverse client population, regarding race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
(704) 681-4028 View (704) 681-4028
Photo of Trudy R Tobias, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trudy R Tobias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
Do you feel your past has negatively affected you? Do you struggle with past or current relationships, including the one with yourself? Do you feel unworthy, anxious, depressed? Are you confused about what to do with the rest of your life? Do you wonder if you'll ever feel joy again? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, chances are I can help. I have been down that road myself, and have come out stronger, healthier and happier. It would be my privilege to show you how to feel better about yourself, your relationships, and your life direction!
Do you feel your past has negatively affected you? Do you struggle with past or current relationships, including the one with yourself? Do you feel unworthy, anxious, depressed? Are you confused about what to do with the rest of your life? Do you wonder if you'll ever feel joy again? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, chances are I can help. I have been down that road myself, and have come out stronger, healthier and happier. It would be my privilege to show you how to feel better about yourself, your relationships, and your life direction!
(336) 763-4611 View (336) 763-4611
Photo of Wendy Lehnertz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Lehnertz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Therapist in both Arizona and North Carolina, I provide residents of both states the convenience of telehealth services from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
As a Licensed Therapist in both Arizona and North Carolina, I provide residents of both states the convenience of telehealth services from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
(919) 343-9011 View (919) 343-9011
Photo of Sarah C Stevens - Sarah Stevens Therapy , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Stevens Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
I believe that every human is shaped by an interplay of factors that come from within and without the person. That is to say that the power of therapy comes from a deeper understanding of the forces inside and out that shape a person into a unique individual. I also find that the center of psychotherapy is the relationship--the relationship with those in one’s life, the relationship with the therapist, and the relationship with oneself. Whether you are seeking therapy to find a deeper purpose in your life, or you are experiencing life’s challenges in the form of pain, anxiety, depression, loss, or conflict, I am here to help.
I believe that every human is shaped by an interplay of factors that come from within and without the person. That is to say that the power of therapy comes from a deeper understanding of the forces inside and out that shape a person into a unique individual. I also find that the center of psychotherapy is the relationship--the relationship with those in one’s life, the relationship with the therapist, and the relationship with oneself. Whether you are seeking therapy to find a deeper purpose in your life, or you are experiencing life’s challenges in the form of pain, anxiety, depression, loss, or conflict, I am here to help.
(919) 343-0676 View (919) 343-0676
Photo of Patricia Butler, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina for over 25 years. I take seriously the trust that clients place in me when choosing to work with me in psychotherapy and as a result I create a safe, non-judgmental space where life's challenges can be examined and explored and where a sense of health and well being can be found or reestablished. My specialties include relationship/couples counseling, trauma resolution, and the integration of spirituality and psychotherapy using the spiritual framework of my clients.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina for over 25 years. I take seriously the trust that clients place in me when choosing to work with me in psychotherapy and as a result I create a safe, non-judgmental space where life's challenges can be examined and explored and where a sense of health and well being can be found or reestablished. My specialties include relationship/couples counseling, trauma resolution, and the integration of spirituality and psychotherapy using the spiritual framework of my clients.
(704) 897-6006 View (704) 897-6006
Photo of Kerry Paksoy, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Kerry Paksoy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
As a therapist I am intuitive, humorous, and respectful. I pride myself in forming comfortable relationships with my clients and truly believe that all people can be happy. If nothing else, this is my goal for our work together. I am willing to bet there are things you are already doing to improve your situation and, you may not be noticing the good you are causing in your life. I hope together we can decide what is helping you, what could be helping you, and add significantly to your ability to roll with life's up's and down's.
As a therapist I am intuitive, humorous, and respectful. I pride myself in forming comfortable relationships with my clients and truly believe that all people can be happy. If nothing else, this is my goal for our work together. I am willing to bet there are things you are already doing to improve your situation and, you may not be noticing the good you are causing in your life. I hope together we can decide what is helping you, what could be helping you, and add significantly to your ability to roll with life's up's and down's.
(919) 569-5901 View (919) 569-5901
Photo of J Michael Goulding, LCSW, CHWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J Michael Goulding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHWC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
If you are feeling resistant, frustrated, or uncertain about what next steps to take to feel better, then I can help you get started in an experienced, judge-free, comfortable setting. If anger, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, traumatic events, oppositional children, interpersonal conflicts, workplace issues, or bullying is getting in your way of happiness, I can guide you to overcome these challenges. I also help people who are satisfied with their current situation but would like to enhance skills and live at their fullest potential. I look forward to you contacting me at www.meaningfultransformation.com/mike
If you are feeling resistant, frustrated, or uncertain about what next steps to take to feel better, then I can help you get started in an experienced, judge-free, comfortable setting. If anger, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, traumatic events, oppositional children, interpersonal conflicts, workplace issues, or bullying is getting in your way of happiness, I can guide you to overcome these challenges. I also help people who are satisfied with their current situation but would like to enhance skills and live at their fullest potential. I look forward to you contacting me at www.meaningfultransformation.com/mike
(919) 694-4568 View (919) 694-4568
Photo of Adina Ambar Middleman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adina Ambar Middleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
Life sends unexpected events our way and it's important to find resources to help us cope, heal, and move beyond adversity. I have served an eclectic population in my 20+ years as a social worker and therapist. I believe my experiences both in and out of the therapy office have enhanced my ability to provide empathetic and multi-faceted clinical treatment to adolescents, adults, couples and families. My expertise and interests focus on life's varying transitions. I enjoy working with those who may be struggling with family dynamics, relationship pain, school/work stressors and/or identity issues.
Life sends unexpected events our way and it's important to find resources to help us cope, heal, and move beyond adversity. I have served an eclectic population in my 20+ years as a social worker and therapist. I believe my experiences both in and out of the therapy office have enhanced my ability to provide empathetic and multi-faceted clinical treatment to adolescents, adults, couples and families. My expertise and interests focus on life's varying transitions. I enjoy working with those who may be struggling with family dynamics, relationship pain, school/work stressors and/or identity issues.
(919) 648-1311 x2 View (919) 648-1311 x2

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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.