Imago Therapists in Mount Joy, PA

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Online Therapists

Photo of Caroline S Robboy - The Center for Growth/Sex Therapy in Philadelphia, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Barbara Macleod, MA, LPC, CAACD, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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 Alana Oravecz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Allison Middleton, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
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 Heidi Byers, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Byers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 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 Ian Sill - Aporia Group LLC: Deborah Blastic and Ian Sill, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Doris Ferleger, PhD, MFA, Psychologist
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 Sandra A. Shachar - Dr. Sandra Shachar, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
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, especially issues of broken trust, poor communication, intimacy and addiction. There is no "perfect partner", but 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, Millenial or retired, you CAN feel understood by one another with deep, joyful connection! With over 40 years of experience, my clinical toolbox is full of skills and concepts that will move you forward together. (Telehealth only. Sorry, no insurance accepted but receipts provided OON.)
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Clinician for Partners of Sex Addicts.
Relationships are my expertise, especially issues of broken trust, poor communication, intimacy and addiction. There is no "perfect partner", but 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, Millenial or retired, you CAN feel understood by one another with deep, joyful connection! With over 40 years of experience, my clinical toolbox is full of skills and concepts that will move you forward together. (Telehealth only. Sorry, no insurance accepted but receipts provided OON.)
(215) 650-8779 View (215) 650-8779
Photo of Jennifer Marie Jennifer Toplak-Kopp, LPC, MT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Pamela Kelberg - Pam Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist , MSSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
My training includes systemic couples therapies- Emotionally Focused Therapy, Imago, Gottman, therapy for Infertility CBT, anxiety disorders, Mindfulness MBSR.
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.
My training includes systemic couples therapies- Emotionally Focused Therapy, Imago, Gottman, therapy for Infertility CBT, anxiety disorders, Mindfulness MBSR.
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, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Christine Wilke, EdS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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 Kathryn Rauch-Lynam, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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 Akilah J. Pierre, LMFT, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Akilah J. Pierre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
I specialize in EFT, IMAGO, and Gottman therapy, blending these approaches to guide you in uncovering what’s blocking your love and healing past wounds.
You’re tired of feeling disconnected, stuck in the same painful cycles of miscommunication, past hurts, and growing emotional distance. You miss the closeness you once had and want to rebuild your bond, but it feels hard to break the negative patterns. Your goal is to feel seen, heard, and connected again, with a healthier, more fulfilling relationship that reflects the love and partnership you both desire. You’re ready to heal, reconnect, and find your way back to each other with guidance that understands the unique challenges of long-term relationships.
I specialize in EFT, IMAGO, and Gottman therapy, blending these approaches to guide you in uncovering what’s blocking your love and healing past wounds.
You’re tired of feeling disconnected, stuck in the same painful cycles of miscommunication, past hurts, and growing emotional distance. You miss the closeness you once had and want to rebuild your bond, but it feels hard to break the negative patterns. Your goal is to feel seen, heard, and connected again, with a healthier, more fulfilling relationship that reflects the love and partnership you both desire. You’re ready to heal, reconnect, and find your way back to each other with guidance that understands the unique challenges of long-term relationships.
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Photo of Maureen Foy-Tornay - Maureen Foy-Tornay, MA, ATR, LPC, CTHM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maureen Foy-Tornay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC, CTHM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Sessions offer an array of tools including Imago Couples counseling, Art Therapy and trauma informed tools.
Strong emotions such as anxiety and depression often emerge as we struggle to express our needs. We might worry, begin losing sleep and feel hopeless. Our work together will restore connection to the self and the world as well as improve your relationships. I am excited to add Imago counseling to my practice as I pursue certification in this dynamic form of treatment. Sessions focus on moving past fears to new resilience with reduced symptoms, healing from past loss and will get you back on track. I am here for you and ready to help.
Sessions offer an array of tools including Imago Couples counseling, Art Therapy and trauma informed tools.
Strong emotions such as anxiety and depression often emerge as we struggle to express our needs. We might worry, begin losing sleep and feel hopeless. Our work together will restore connection to the self and the world as well as improve your relationships. I am excited to add Imago counseling to my practice as I pursue certification in this dynamic form of treatment. Sessions focus on moving past fears to new resilience with reduced symptoms, healing from past loss and will get you back on track. I am here for you and ready to help.
(267) 633-8878 View (267) 633-8878
Photo of Stephanie Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exton, PA 19341
Stumbling blocks....this is a way to describe some of the patterns and responses we can get caught up in over time that hinder us from fulfillment and joy. We all have them and they can show up in our relationships, at work, as parents, with our family of origin and with ourselves. In my therapy practice, we unpack our maladaptive tendencies and their roots to fully understand what holds us back or doesn't serve us. We then learn new ways of being and determine what is within in our power to change. This shifts those stumbling blocks to stairways.
Stumbling blocks....this is a way to describe some of the patterns and responses we can get caught up in over time that hinder us from fulfillment and joy. We all have them and they can show up in our relationships, at work, as parents, with our family of origin and with ourselves. In my therapy practice, we unpack our maladaptive tendencies and their roots to fully understand what holds us back or doesn't serve us. We then learn new ways of being and determine what is within in our power to change. This shifts those stumbling blocks to stairways.
(484) 207-5762 View (484) 207-5762
Photo of Sara Sculley, MSEd, LPC, PMH-C, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Sculley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, PMH-C, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I believe all individuals have inherent skills and wisdom to heal. As a Psychotherapist, I hope to create a compassionate, collaborative, and trusting relationship where you feel seen, heard, and valued. Our work will be a balance of exploring past experiences and relationships, building new skills to reduce distress, highlighting the strengths you already possess and building confidence, increasing awareness and choice, as well as addressing and normalizing fears.
I believe all individuals have inherent skills and wisdom to heal. As a Psychotherapist, I hope to create a compassionate, collaborative, and trusting relationship where you feel seen, heard, and valued. Our work will be a balance of exploring past experiences and relationships, building new skills to reduce distress, highlighting the strengths you already possess and building confidence, increasing awareness and choice, as well as addressing and normalizing fears.
(484) 930-1804 View (484) 930-1804
Photo of Ashley Straub - Ashley Straub Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Straub Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erdenheim, PA 19038
Feeling stuck and wondering why? Or what you can do about it? Let’s work together to identify your goals and create a path towards them. Along the way we will work on self-acceptance, self-love and developing an understanding of all spheres of yourself. My ideal client struggles to find their words, has difficulties describing what’s happening to them, and often needs validation and acceptance. All stressors, regardless of intensity, can leave us feeling powerless and hopeless as they accumulate. Sometimes people fall short and are not sure why, working with a therapist can help you understand what might be getting in your way.
Feeling stuck and wondering why? Or what you can do about it? Let’s work together to identify your goals and create a path towards them. Along the way we will work on self-acceptance, self-love and developing an understanding of all spheres of yourself. My ideal client struggles to find their words, has difficulties describing what’s happening to them, and often needs validation and acceptance. All stressors, regardless of intensity, can leave us feeling powerless and hopeless as they accumulate. Sometimes people fall short and are not sure why, working with a therapist can help you understand what might be getting in your way.
(267) 732-0758 View (267) 732-0758
Photo of Mallory Hanfling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mallory Hanfling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Do you want to live more authentically and experience more alignment with your values? Do you want your relationships to reflect these desires? Together we can work in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate space to help you better understand yourself... why you may choose to do things, and cope in ways, that have been unproductive, problematic, or even harmful to your wellbeing. Let’s develop new skills that support your peace & serenity. I am certain that we can tap into your innate power and find your courage to grow! My practice is LGBTQ2IA, poly/CNM, and neurodivergent friendly and affirming. Let's get to work!
Do you want to live more authentically and experience more alignment with your values? Do you want your relationships to reflect these desires? Together we can work in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate space to help you better understand yourself... why you may choose to do things, and cope in ways, that have been unproductive, problematic, or even harmful to your wellbeing. Let’s develop new skills that support your peace & serenity. I am certain that we can tap into your innate power and find your courage to grow! My practice is LGBTQ2IA, poly/CNM, and neurodivergent friendly and affirming. Let's get to work!
(215) 544-2684 View (215) 544-2684
Photo of Lisa Gercie, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Gercie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tatamy, PA 18085  (Online Only)
Lisa specializes in working with empaths, sensitives and intuitives who may be experiencing symptoms of overwhelm, depression and anxiety. She is also known for helping people who are in a midlife crisis or a transition whether through a divorce or a career change. She has helped many people facilitate a transformative shift in their life when they have felt stagnant and needed support through the process. Lisa provides a safe space where you can tell your story and she will guide you with compassion, care and motivation to help you towards living a purposeful, fulfilling and abundant life.
Lisa specializes in working with empaths, sensitives and intuitives who may be experiencing symptoms of overwhelm, depression and anxiety. She is also known for helping people who are in a midlife crisis or a transition whether through a divorce or a career change. She has helped many people facilitate a transformative shift in their life when they have felt stagnant and needed support through the process. Lisa provides a safe space where you can tell your story and she will guide you with compassion, care and motivation to help you towards living a purposeful, fulfilling and abundant life.
(484) 537-7819 View (484) 537-7819

See more therapy options for Mount Joy

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.