Imago Therapists in Hershey, PA

Photo of Alana Oravecz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hershey, 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 Betsy Earnest, LPC LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hershey, PA
Betsy Earnest, LPC LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Hershey, PA 17033  (Online Only)
Are feelings of anxiety or self-doubt keeping you from enjoying life? Do you feel your relationships could be better? No matter how stuck you may feel, together we can uncover the obstacles that stand in your way and find your inner strength to make the changes you desire.
Are feelings of anxiety or self-doubt keeping you from enjoying life? Do you feel your relationships could be better? No matter how stuck you may feel, together we can uncover the obstacles that stand in your way and find your inner strength to make the changes you desire.
(717) 229-1325 View (717) 229-1325
Photo of Liz Bailey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hershey, PA
Liz Bailey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Hershey, PA 17033
Navigating our way through life can be challenging, confusing, and unexplainable. Are you tired of feeling like you "should be" at some point in your life that you're not? Have you hesitated to seek help due to the stigma and judgement of mental illness? Being a human in this world can feel so hard, and we are not always meant to be on this journey alone. Therapy should be a safe space where we can work together to foster your growth, connection, and strength. You are deserving of support through life transitions, trauma, self-discovery, and self-esteem/trust building. This shit is hard, but together we can do hard things!
Navigating our way through life can be challenging, confusing, and unexplainable. Are you tired of feeling like you "should be" at some point in your life that you're not? Have you hesitated to seek help due to the stigma and judgement of mental illness? Being a human in this world can feel so hard, and we are not always meant to be on this journey alone. Therapy should be a safe space where we can work together to foster your growth, connection, and strength. You are deserving of support through life transitions, trauma, self-discovery, and self-esteem/trust building. This shit is hard, but together we can do hard things!
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of The Family Wellness Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hershey, PA
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
(717) 229-0492 x1 View (717) 229-0492 x1
Photo of Mark Verber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hershey, PA
Mark Verber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Do you miss your relationship as it once was? You’re likely feeling stuck between two unimaginable fates- struggling with the way things currently are, but you don’t want the relationship to end either. You don’t want to give in or give up. Yet, the more you struggle against the pattern that has developed, the more stuck you seem to get. Communication is not productive or non-existent- leaving you frustrated. Conflict is ever-present or unresolved- leaving you angry. Intimacy is absent or distant- leaving you feeling alone. When your relationship suffers, everything suffers.
Do you miss your relationship as it once was? You’re likely feeling stuck between two unimaginable fates- struggling with the way things currently are, but you don’t want the relationship to end either. You don’t want to give in or give up. Yet, the more you struggle against the pattern that has developed, the more stuck you seem to get. Communication is not productive or non-existent- leaving you frustrated. Conflict is ever-present or unresolved- leaving you angry. Intimacy is absent or distant- leaving you feeling alone. When your relationship suffers, everything suffers.
(717) 384-2890 View (717) 384-2890
Photo of Katie Novak Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hershey, PA
Katie Novak Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Every person has the ability to tap into their potential and recognize that they are a unique gift to the world. Many of my clients have not been aware that they can learn self-control, problem solving, courage, spiritual serenity, and find joy in life. They may be held back by internalized negative beliefs about themselves and others. We all need to be heard, validated, challenged, and supported as we take the next step. I love to help people find balance in their lives, and build healthy relationships. Depending on the needs of the client, I may use worksheets, visual aids, bibliotherapy, therapy games, play therapy techniques.
Every person has the ability to tap into their potential and recognize that they are a unique gift to the world. Many of my clients have not been aware that they can learn self-control, problem solving, courage, spiritual serenity, and find joy in life. They may be held back by internalized negative beliefs about themselves and others. We all need to be heard, validated, challenged, and supported as we take the next step. I love to help people find balance in their lives, and build healthy relationships. Depending on the needs of the client, I may use worksheets, visual aids, bibliotherapy, therapy games, play therapy techniques.
(717) 429-0493 View (717) 429-0493

Online Therapists

Photo of Joanne Fleisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hershey, 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
Photo of Kathryn Rauch-Lynam, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hershey, 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 Morgan Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hershey, 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 Pam Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hershey, 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 Christine Wilke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hershey, 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 Dr. Sandra Shachar, Ph.D., Psychologist in Hershey, PA
Dr. Sandra Shachar, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Clinician for Partners of Sex Addicts.
Relationships are my expertise area, especially issues of broken trust, poor communication, intimacy and addiction. While there is no "perfect partner", intimate partnerships should be a source of joy, safety and support. Whether you are dating or engaged, married or contemplating divorce, "straight" or LGBTQIA, monogamous or poly, kinky or vanilla, in your 30's or retirement, you CAN feel understood by one another and have deep, joyful connection! With over 35 years of experience, my deep toolbox is full of skills and concepts that will move you forward together. (Couples sessions are 90 minutes; Individual 45 or 60 minutes).
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Clinician for Partners of Sex Addicts.
Relationships are my expertise area, especially issues of broken trust, poor communication, intimacy and addiction. While there is no "perfect partner", intimate partnerships should be a source of joy, safety and support. Whether you are dating or engaged, married or contemplating divorce, "straight" or LGBTQIA, monogamous or poly, kinky or vanilla, in your 30's or retirement, you CAN feel understood by one another and have deep, joyful connection! With over 35 years of experience, my deep toolbox is full of skills and concepts that will move you forward together. (Couples sessions are 90 minutes; Individual 45 or 60 minutes).
(215) 650-8779 View (215) 650-8779
Photo of Allison Middleton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hershey, 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 Jennifer Marie Jennifer Toplak-Kopp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hershey, 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 Christine Lynch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hershey, PA
Christine Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
I have received formal training in Mindfulness, CBT therapy, DBT, Gottman Couples training, Imago relationship therapy and use a combo of these techniques to help my clients understand their struggles and explore new ways to challenge them.
After a successful career in the business world, I took the skills of social connection and project management and returned to school for my Master's to integrate my life's experiences with a behavioral health education. I have gained clinical experience working with adults, couples and teens from diverse backgrounds in various settings. My practice philosophy is to walk alongside my clients in a relaxed setting and go through this journey of self-discovery together. You can change what's possible.
I have received formal training in Mindfulness, CBT therapy, DBT, Gottman Couples training, Imago relationship therapy and use a combo of these techniques to help my clients understand their struggles and explore new ways to challenge them.
After a successful career in the business world, I took the skills of social connection and project management and returned to school for my Master's to integrate my life's experiences with a behavioral health education. I have gained clinical experience working with adults, couples and teens from diverse backgrounds in various settings. My practice philosophy is to walk alongside my clients in a relaxed setting and go through this journey of self-discovery together. You can change what's possible.
(215) 608-0555 View (215) 608-0555
Photo of Maureen Foy-Tornay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hershey, 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 The Center for Growth/Sex Therapy in Philadelphia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hershey, PA
The Center 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 Hershey, 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 Heidi Byers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hershey, PA
Heidi Byers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
My therapeutic approach combines evidence-based techniques such as Attachment-based therapy, Gestalt techniques, Imago therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Do you and your partner struggle to find common ground? Are communication breakdowns, unresolved conflicts, or the effects of childhood trauma impacting your relationship? As someone who understands the profound impact that early experiences can have on your emotional well-being, self-esteem, and relationships, I offer a compassionate and trauma-informed approach to healing. Whether you are seeking support as a couple or an individual, we will navigate the challenges, address the root causes of your struggles, and empower you to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
My therapeutic approach combines evidence-based techniques such as Attachment-based therapy, Gestalt techniques, Imago therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Do you and your partner struggle to find common ground? Are communication breakdowns, unresolved conflicts, or the effects of childhood trauma impacting your relationship? As someone who understands the profound impact that early experiences can have on your emotional well-being, self-esteem, and relationships, I offer a compassionate and trauma-informed approach to healing. Whether you are seeking support as a couple or an individual, we will navigate the challenges, address the root causes of your struggles, and empower you to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(484) 285-4343 View (484) 285-4343
Photo of Barbara Macleod, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hershey, 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

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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.