Photo of Jill Yang, LCMHC, NCC, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in West End, NC
Jill Yang, LCMHC, NCC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West End, NC 27376  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you having issues with a difficult person? Are you tired of fighting and endless discussions? Do you have difficulty communicating your feelings. Do you suffer from anxiety or depression and it's impacting your relationships. Do you lack the motivation to make real changes in your life? Are you an empty nester and unsure how to move forward? Is your work and leisure time out of balance? Then let's talk because I can help.
Are you having issues with a difficult person? Are you tired of fighting and endless discussions? Do you have difficulty communicating your feelings. Do you suffer from anxiety or depression and it's impacting your relationships. Do you lack the motivation to make real changes in your life? Are you an empty nester and unsure how to move forward? Is your work and leisure time out of balance? Then let's talk because I can help.
(910) 714-9037 View (910) 714-9037

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allen Brooks Professional Counseling Service, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in West End, NC
Allen Brooks Professional Counseling Service
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LPCS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
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 Karen DuBose in West End, NC
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 Carolyn R Craft, Counselor in West End, NC
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 Kathleen Sheffield, Licensed Professional Counselor in West End, NC
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 Kristen Stuhlmueller, Marriage & Family Therapist in West End, NC
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 Judith S Barnett, Psychologist in West End, NC
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 Ronald A Zumstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, NC
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 Peter Basone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, NC
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 Elizabeth C Hutcheson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, NC
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 Elaine K Hicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, NC
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 Michael Rosen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, NC
Michael Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Barbara Bear PsyD, Psychologist in West End, NC
Barbara Bear PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
I have been a Doctoral Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 23 years, an Educational and Career Consultant, a Certified Autism Specialist, an Executive Coach, and a Law School Graduate. My diverse background of educational and professional experience helping individuals, couples, and families live more productive and fulfilling lives is my passion. My clientele includes lawyers, physicians, therapists, executives, college students, and other professionals committed to changing their lives. Each client is treated with respect, and dignity, in a judgement free zone. I seek to hear, understand, empathize, be active, authentic, & direct.
I have been a Doctoral Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 23 years, an Educational and Career Consultant, a Certified Autism Specialist, an Executive Coach, and a Law School Graduate. My diverse background of educational and professional experience helping individuals, couples, and families live more productive and fulfilling lives is my passion. My clientele includes lawyers, physicians, therapists, executives, college students, and other professionals committed to changing their lives. Each client is treated with respect, and dignity, in a judgement free zone. I seek to hear, understand, empathize, be active, authentic, & direct.
(336) 438-8802 View (336) 438-8802
Photo of Kelli Underwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, NC
Kelli Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
I have been successfully treating children, teenagers, adults, couples and families since 1996. I offer a diverse menu of treatment options, from concrete skills to deep healing techniques to attain sustainable change. Viewing you holistically in all the contexts of your life, by recognizing your vulnerabilities while building on your strengths, is essential. I create a validating environment and an authentic, collaborative relationship. I am honest, empathic and an effective teacher. I will support you and challenge you to grow in the direction you desire.
I have been successfully treating children, teenagers, adults, couples and families since 1996. I offer a diverse menu of treatment options, from concrete skills to deep healing techniques to attain sustainable change. Viewing you holistically in all the contexts of your life, by recognizing your vulnerabilities while building on your strengths, is essential. I create a validating environment and an authentic, collaborative relationship. I am honest, empathic and an effective teacher. I will support you and challenge you to grow in the direction you desire.
(919) 582-7461 View (919) 582-7461
Photo of Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in West End, NC
Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
New Therapist Accepting Medicaid....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
New Therapist Accepting Medicaid....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 Queen Village Therapy Group, Counselor in West End, NC
Queen Village Therapy Group
Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
At Queen Village Therapy Group, we understand the importance of mental health and wellness. Our team of experienced therapists are dedicated to providing personalized and high-quality services to help you feel your best. We offer a variety of therapy services, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We work together with our patients to identify the best treatment plan for their individual needs
At Queen Village Therapy Group, we understand the importance of mental health and wellness. Our team of experienced therapists are dedicated to providing personalized and high-quality services to help you feel your best. We offer a variety of therapy services, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We work together with our patients to identify the best treatment plan for their individual needs
(757) 859-9531 View (757) 859-9531
Photo of Jacqueline Heiny/ Lake Mary Counseling LLC, Counselor in West End, NC
Jacqueline Heiny/ Lake Mary Counseling LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
At Lake Mary Counseling we help improve your relationship to where your feelings and needs are heard. Some can get stuck dismissing their partner without realizing that for women being heard is a need as we are circular thinkers and come to you our best friend to be heard and comforted. I compare sexual intimacy to quality conversations for women. At times running a business and taking care of children has become stressful and date nights are not happening as often as needed. We will work on healing, heard and reconnecting.
At Lake Mary Counseling we help improve your relationship to where your feelings and needs are heard. Some can get stuck dismissing their partner without realizing that for women being heard is a need as we are circular thinkers and come to you our best friend to be heard and comforted. I compare sexual intimacy to quality conversations for women. At times running a business and taking care of children has become stressful and date nights are not happening as often as needed. We will work on healing, heard and reconnecting.
(689) 215-7495 View (689) 215-7495
Photo of Barbara W. Pherribo, LCMHC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in West End, NC
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 Julie M Albert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West End, NC
Julie M Albert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring Hope, NC 27882  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed, difficulty making decisions? Sadness or anxiety ruling your life? Relationship struggles - with your partner or family? Traumatic memories keeping you stuck? Separation, divorce or even retirement challenging you to find the 'new normal?' Loss or grief causing a hole in your heart? Sometimes everything we know just isn't enough - perhaps psychotherapy can help. Learn new skills, insights and perceptions; navigate through the angst while strengthening your inner resilience.
Feeling overwhelmed, difficulty making decisions? Sadness or anxiety ruling your life? Relationship struggles - with your partner or family? Traumatic memories keeping you stuck? Separation, divorce or even retirement challenging you to find the 'new normal?' Loss or grief causing a hole in your heart? Sometimes everything we know just isn't enough - perhaps psychotherapy can help. Learn new skills, insights and perceptions; navigate through the angst while strengthening your inner resilience.
(434) 442-5115 View (434) 442-5115
Photo of Resiliency Therapeutic Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in West End, NC
Resiliency Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28246  (Online Only)
Tired of just being tired? Feeling hopeless, in need of relief from your current pain, the trauma from your past, isolation, loneliness, and a lack of motivation? Are you wanting to talk to someone but not sure how to get the help you need? Are you unsure about one on on therapy and sharing your past with a complete stranger? Just full of questions and in need of answers? I understand and want to help you get your hope and life back by learning skills that will not only equip but empower you. Please know you are not alone in your journey, as I will walk with you and help you discover your path to freedom.
Tired of just being tired? Feeling hopeless, in need of relief from your current pain, the trauma from your past, isolation, loneliness, and a lack of motivation? Are you wanting to talk to someone but not sure how to get the help you need? Are you unsure about one on on therapy and sharing your past with a complete stranger? Just full of questions and in need of answers? I understand and want to help you get your hope and life back by learning skills that will not only equip but empower you. Please know you are not alone in your journey, as I will walk with you and help you discover your path to freedom.
(704) 946-8312 View (704) 946-8312

See more therapy options for West End

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.