Imago Therapists in East Petersburg, PA

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Photo of Latinia M. Shell, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Petersburg, PA
Latinia M. Shell
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I provide individual therapy for adolescents, teens, adults, as well as couples, families, and group counseling. Through a highly personalized approach tailored to each client's individual needs, I assist clients in identifying limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in the way. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Services provided span from therapy for depression and anxiety to relationship and family counseling, stress management, anger management and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I hope to help clients attain the personal growth they're striving for.
I provide individual therapy for adolescents, teens, adults, as well as couples, families, and group counseling. Through a highly personalized approach tailored to each client's individual needs, I assist clients in identifying limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in the way. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Services provided span from therapy for depression and anxiety to relationship and family counseling, stress management, anger management and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I hope to help clients attain the personal growth they're striving for.
(717) 801-1159 View (717) 801-1159
Photo of Gregg Hammond, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Petersburg, PA
Gregg Hammond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
My most enjoyable times in therapy are the moments when a person realizes they have it within them to recognize a change to be made, the skills to do it, and feels successful. To experience that life changing moment with them is awe-inspiring. Some call this an "A-ha moment," "light bulb going off," or an "epiphany." Instead, I call this the moment when a person switches the channel of their inner voice from: self-blaming, hyper-critical, guilt driven, and fear-mongering to one that is: self-compassionate, self-forgiving, self-empowering, self-accepting, and value-driven.
My most enjoyable times in therapy are the moments when a person realizes they have it within them to recognize a change to be made, the skills to do it, and feels successful. To experience that life changing moment with them is awe-inspiring. Some call this an "A-ha moment," "light bulb going off," or an "epiphany." Instead, I call this the moment when a person switches the channel of their inner voice from: self-blaming, hyper-critical, guilt driven, and fear-mongering to one that is: self-compassionate, self-forgiving, self-empowering, self-accepting, and value-driven.
(717) 470-8298 View (717) 470-8298
Photo of Ashley King, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Petersburg, PA
Ashley King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, EdM, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17602
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
(215) 995-0219 View (215) 995-0219
Photo of Carol Musser, Marriage & Family Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Carol Musser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I care deeply about helping my clients reach their goals by identifying strengths, discovering possibilities, and finding balance in the troublesome areas of their lives. The journey to healing and wholeness requires a safe place to process the difficulties in life, and by walking together, we create that safety so that the client may regain a sense of fullness in their life, enrich their relationships, and find their unique purpose and meaning in life.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I care deeply about helping my clients reach their goals by identifying strengths, discovering possibilities, and finding balance in the troublesome areas of their lives. The journey to healing and wholeness requires a safe place to process the difficulties in life, and by walking together, we create that safety so that the client may regain a sense of fullness in their life, enrich their relationships, and find their unique purpose and meaning in life.
(717) 422-9559 View (717) 422-9559
Photo of Tangents Therapy, Matt Kramer, Marriage & Family Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Tangents Therapy, Matt Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
Congratulations! You've taken this first, courageous step toward creating a new direction for your life. No doubt you may be feeling a bit anxious about attending therapy if this is a new experience for you. That's perfectly understandable. I want to assure you that you'll be treated with empathy, kindness and respect no matter what issues you may be facing. I am experienced and committed to assisting individuals, couples and families with issues such as anxiety, depression, marital conflict, infidelity, sexual dysfunction, addiction, trauma, abuse, and behavior issues and would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with you.
Congratulations! You've taken this first, courageous step toward creating a new direction for your life. No doubt you may be feeling a bit anxious about attending therapy if this is a new experience for you. That's perfectly understandable. I want to assure you that you'll be treated with empathy, kindness and respect no matter what issues you may be facing. I am experienced and committed to assisting individuals, couples and families with issues such as anxiety, depression, marital conflict, infidelity, sexual dysfunction, addiction, trauma, abuse, and behavior issues and would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with you.
(717) 527-7626 View (717) 527-7626
Photo of Rosenberg Psychological Practice, Psychologist in East Petersburg, PA
Rosenberg Psychological Practice
Psychologist, MS, aCHT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
Not accepting new clients
HEALING IS POSSIBLE!! My expertise is in working with couples and with adult individuals dealing with relationship issues, or depression, anxiety, stress, grief, or family problems. When you work with me, you can expect a caring,challenging,healing experience in a safe atmosphere with a skilled professional.I have extensive training in and experience with a variety of modalities, allowing me to access an array of healing tools.
HEALING IS POSSIBLE!! My expertise is in working with couples and with adult individuals dealing with relationship issues, or depression, anxiety, stress, grief, or family problems. When you work with me, you can expect a caring,challenging,healing experience in a safe atmosphere with a skilled professional.I have extensive training in and experience with a variety of modalities, allowing me to access an array of healing tools.
(717) 308-8332 View (717) 308-8332

Online Therapists

Photo of Doris Ferleger, Psychologist in East Petersburg, PA
Doris Ferleger
Psychologist, PhD, MFA
Verified Verified
Wyncote, PA 19095
"Intimate relationships are at the core of our emotional life." Nedra Fetterman. —All of us, born, nurtured, pleasured, disappointed and wounded in relationship. With over 30 years as an individual and couples therapist, trained in Imago and Real Dialogue, I am committed to helping you learn and practice, individually or in a couple, honoring your needds, clarifying clear intentions, honing dialogue tools and co-creating a safe environment for growth, healing, living with more ease and regaining joy.
"Intimate relationships are at the core of our emotional life." Nedra Fetterman. —All of us, born, nurtured, pleasured, disappointed and wounded in relationship. With over 30 years as an individual and couples therapist, trained in Imago and Real Dialogue, I am committed to helping you learn and practice, individually or in a couple, honoring your needds, clarifying clear intentions, honing dialogue tools and co-creating a safe environment for growth, healing, living with more ease and regaining joy.
(215) 234-1211 View (215) 234-1211
Photo of Maureen Foy-Tornay, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Petersburg, PA
Maureen Foy-Tornay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC, CTHM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Sessions offer a huge array of tools including Imago couples work, CBT, art therapy and psycho-education.
Are you increasingly anxious, thinking about the past and worried about the future while unable to focus on today? Our sessions can offer you the hope and time you need to gain perspective. I have extensive experience working with young adults, college students & couples in inpatient, and outpatient settings struggling with traumatic events in their lives, stress, adjustment and challenges that require more resilience, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. Sometimes unhelpful addictions were our way of coping and we need support to redirect. I am here for you and ready to help.
Sessions offer a huge array of tools including Imago couples work, CBT, art therapy and psycho-education.
Are you increasingly anxious, thinking about the past and worried about the future while unable to focus on today? Our sessions can offer you the hope and time you need to gain perspective. I have extensive experience working with young adults, college students & couples in inpatient, and outpatient settings struggling with traumatic events in their lives, stress, adjustment and challenges that require more resilience, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. Sometimes unhelpful addictions were our way of coping and we need support to redirect. I am here for you and ready to help.
(267) 633-8878 View (267) 633-8878
Photo of Kathryn Rauch-Lynam, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Petersburg, PA
Kathryn Rauch-Lynam
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19382
Life is too short to be living a life that 'does not work'. Family of origin patterns often interfere with successful relationships; using Imago therapy we can uncover and heal emotional patterns that prevent marriages from thriving. The stresses of life can be overwhelming especially if one is not in a good relationship with oneself - are you your own best friend? Sometimes anxiety or depression or anger get in the way of a satisfactory life; it doesn't have to be that way and I can help you change what needs to be changed.
Life is too short to be living a life that 'does not work'. Family of origin patterns often interfere with successful relationships; using Imago therapy we can uncover and heal emotional patterns that prevent marriages from thriving. The stresses of life can be overwhelming especially if one is not in a good relationship with oneself - are you your own best friend? Sometimes anxiety or depression or anger get in the way of a satisfactory life; it doesn't have to be that way and I can help you change what needs to be changed.
(484) 443-2918 View (484) 443-2918
Photo of Barbara Macleod, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Petersburg, PA
Barbara Macleod
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAACD, MAC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18505
Some treatments I have specifically trained in are EMDR ,CBT, DBT,RET, PTSD,Imago,family of origin,inner child, shame work, experiencial, etc.
As a young adult I sought out counseling to help me navigate my life's issues. It felt most beneficial when a therapist, by listening and understanding me, in a nonjudgmental, supportive and educational way, seemed to meet me where I was at both emotionally and mentally- giving me hope, the tools, the time and the motivation I needed to heal.These healing experiences gave me the desire to help others. Thus following their positive examples, I have approached everyone's treatment on an individual basis- knowing everyone is different emotionally and mentally, and are coming from different life experiences.
Some treatments I have specifically trained in are EMDR ,CBT, DBT,RET, PTSD,Imago,family of origin,inner child, shame work, experiencial, etc.
As a young adult I sought out counseling to help me navigate my life's issues. It felt most beneficial when a therapist, by listening and understanding me, in a nonjudgmental, supportive and educational way, seemed to meet me where I was at both emotionally and mentally- giving me hope, the tools, the time and the motivation I needed to heal.These healing experiences gave me the desire to help others. Thus following their positive examples, I have approached everyone's treatment on an individual basis- knowing everyone is different emotionally and mentally, and are coming from different life experiences.
(570) 216-5575 View (570) 216-5575
Photo of The Ctr for Growth/ Sex Therapy in Philadelphia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
The Ctr for Growth/ Sex Therapy in Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Additionally, she is a certified Imago Therapist, and board certified Sexologist and Sex Therapist.
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
Additionally, she is a certified Imago Therapist, and board certified Sexologist and Sex Therapist.
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
(267) 888-4162 View (267) 888-4162
Photo of Todd Drazien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Todd Drazien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lemoyne, PA 17043  (Online Only)
I have been trained in the Gottman method, IMAGO, EFT, conflict resolution and sex therapy.
Being in a relationship can be very challenging and can have an enormous impact on your health. It’s no surprise that the divorce rate in the US is over 50%; but it doesn’t have to be. Most marital issues are resolvable. Whether it’s improving your communication, recovering from infidelity, finding that long lost spark or rekindling your emotional and physical connection - I can help you with all of this. I’ve been working in the mental health field for over 25 years. I have a vast amount of experience and training in marital counseling that I would love to share with you.
I have been trained in the Gottman method, IMAGO, EFT, conflict resolution and sex therapy.
Being in a relationship can be very challenging and can have an enormous impact on your health. It’s no surprise that the divorce rate in the US is over 50%; but it doesn’t have to be. Most marital issues are resolvable. Whether it’s improving your communication, recovering from infidelity, finding that long lost spark or rekindling your emotional and physical connection - I can help you with all of this. I’ve been working in the mental health field for over 25 years. I have a vast amount of experience and training in marital counseling that I would love to share with you.
(717) 306-9058 View (717) 306-9058
Photo of Jennifer Marie Jennifer Toplak-Kopp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Jennifer Marie Jennifer Toplak-Kopp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, MT
Verified Verified
West Reading, PA 19611
My name is Jennifer Toplak , LPC. I have been working in the mental health with families and children for 20 years. I specialize in family, parenting and ADHD with children. I love working with teens and helping resolve parent/child conflict. My primary focus is on improving interpersonal communication and practice the imago method for couple therapy and families. communication
My name is Jennifer Toplak , LPC. I have been working in the mental health with families and children for 20 years. I specialize in family, parenting and ADHD with children. I love working with teens and helping resolve parent/child conflict. My primary focus is on improving interpersonal communication and practice the imago method for couple therapy and families. communication
(610) 936-8119 View (610) 936-8119
Photo of Allison Middleton, Pre-Licensed Professional in East Petersburg, PA
Allison Middleton
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
In couples therapy, I use Imago techniques and am open to all types of couples, including homosexual, heterosexual, and more.
Texting available at 215-436-8115. You deserve the best version of you! There is hope. Are you looking for a safe space to explore yourself? Do you wish to learn how to affirm, support, and love yourself for being you? I can help you discover the self-care that is best for you and how to be the best in your relationships, using tools like the Enneagram. I am trauma informed and am happy to help change what is negatively impacting you in your life. I am also passionate about seeing couples and helping relationships develop true intimacy and healthy communication skills. This therapeutic relationship can change your life.
In couples therapy, I use Imago techniques and am open to all types of couples, including homosexual, heterosexual, and more.
Texting available at 215-436-8115. You deserve the best version of you! There is hope. Are you looking for a safe space to explore yourself? Do you wish to learn how to affirm, support, and love yourself for being you? I can help you discover the self-care that is best for you and how to be the best in your relationships, using tools like the Enneagram. I am trauma informed and am happy to help change what is negatively impacting you in your life. I am also passionate about seeing couples and helping relationships develop true intimacy and healthy communication skills. This therapeutic relationship can change your life.
(215) 910-4073 View (215) 910-4073
Photo of Morgan Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Morgan Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, and yoga; my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients often struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore sources of trauma and healing with curiosity.
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, and yoga; my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients often struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore sources of trauma and healing with curiosity.
(609) 997-6138 View (609) 997-6138
Photo of Aporia Group LLC: Deborah Blastic and Ian Sill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Aporia Group LLC: Deborah Blastic and Ian Sill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
We specialize in addressing substance abuse and practice Imago Relationship Therapy for couples. Our aim is to assist the individual and their loved ones into a recovery program that works. We are dedicated to this process and understand how confusing it is. Imago Relationship Therapy came to us as an outgrowth of our recognition that people in recovery need help with relationships and families need support. Our interest in Imago expanded our philosophical approach to therapy and and provided us a skill set useful for any couple seeking to improve their relationship. To learn more about Imago please see: imagorelationshipswork.com
We specialize in addressing substance abuse and practice Imago Relationship Therapy for couples. Our aim is to assist the individual and their loved ones into a recovery program that works. We are dedicated to this process and understand how confusing it is. Imago Relationship Therapy came to us as an outgrowth of our recognition that people in recovery need help with relationships and families need support. Our interest in Imago expanded our philosophical approach to therapy and and provided us a skill set useful for any couple seeking to improve their relationship. To learn more about Imago please see: imagorelationshipswork.com
(215) 631-8270 View (215) 631-8270
Photo of Christine Wilke, Marriage & Family Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Christine Wilke
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18042
I’m a Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist-Certified Imago Relationship Therapist with 20+ years experience working with couples.
Having a healthy, passionate marriage isn't as complicated as you think when you learn how to build a supportive relationship one loving step at time.
I’m a Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist-Certified Imago Relationship Therapist with 20+ years experience working with couples.
Having a healthy, passionate marriage isn't as complicated as you think when you learn how to build a supportive relationship one loving step at time.
(610) 915-8621 View (610) 915-8621
Photo of Alana Oravecz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Alana Oravecz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hershey, PA 17033  (Online Only)
My approach is primarily Person-Centered and Holistic, and I utilize the Imago model of Harville Hendrix with couples.
Wanting to make some changes, but feeling stuck? I work with you to uncover the obstacles inhibiting you from making the changes you desire and give you the tools you need to make those changes. I provide a safe atmosphere of unconditional positive regard and non-judgment. Each person is unique and therefore I am flexible in my approach and am guided by what each individual client needs. I also teach Relaxation Response breathing and other relaxation exercises for those dealing with stress and anxiety.
My approach is primarily Person-Centered and Holistic, and I utilize the Imago model of Harville Hendrix with couples.
Wanting to make some changes, but feeling stuck? I work with you to uncover the obstacles inhibiting you from making the changes you desire and give you the tools you need to make those changes. I provide a safe atmosphere of unconditional positive regard and non-judgment. Each person is unique and therefore I am flexible in my approach and am guided by what each individual client needs. I also teach Relaxation Response breathing and other relaxation exercises for those dealing with stress and anxiety.
(717) 356-9696 View (717) 356-9696
Photo of Pam Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Pam Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I am a certified sex therapist with AASECT, and my training includes systemic couples therapies, Imago Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, anxiety disorders, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner or spouse? Do you want to improve communication and avoid arguments? Is your sexual relationship tense? I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years experience specializing in relationship counseling and sex therapy. I help couples learn how to best listen and communicate needs clearly so that you and your partner can feel close again. I have been told that I am keenly in tune with my clients. I understand that seeking therapy, although not always an easy decision is a wonderful opportunity to restore your relationship with your partner/spouse or family member.
I am a certified sex therapist with AASECT, and my training includes systemic couples therapies, Imago Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, anxiety disorders, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner or spouse? Do you want to improve communication and avoid arguments? Is your sexual relationship tense? I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years experience specializing in relationship counseling and sex therapy. I help couples learn how to best listen and communicate needs clearly so that you and your partner can feel close again. I have been told that I am keenly in tune with my clients. I understand that seeking therapy, although not always an easy decision is a wonderful opportunity to restore your relationship with your partner/spouse or family member.
(267) 544-9992 View (267) 544-9992
Photo of Joanne Fleisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Petersburg, PA
Joanne Fleisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I also specialize in Imago couples therapy, an approach that recognizes the power of relationships to heal childhood wounds.
Whether you are coming to therapy for the first time or have therapy experience, I welcome you to my practice. I tailor the therapy experience to meet your needs, drawing from a variety of treatment approaches. Together, we focus on building your strengths and recognizing your inherent wisdom as pathways for healing and growth. My practice is informed by mindfulness meditation, which I have studied as a practitioner and instructor. I encourage clients who are interested in this approach to develop mindfulness techniques that will help them to overcome anxiety, depression and other life challenges.
I also specialize in Imago couples therapy, an approach that recognizes the power of relationships to heal childhood wounds.
Whether you are coming to therapy for the first time or have therapy experience, I welcome you to my practice. I tailor the therapy experience to meet your needs, drawing from a variety of treatment approaches. Together, we focus on building your strengths and recognizing your inherent wisdom as pathways for healing and growth. My practice is informed by mindfulness meditation, which I have studied as a practitioner and instructor. I encourage clients who are interested in this approach to develop mindfulness techniques that will help them to overcome anxiety, depression and other life challenges.
(215) 515-0412 View (215) 515-0412

See more therapy options for East Petersburg


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.