Imago Therapists in Chantilly, VA

Photo of Charmaine R. Dockett-Rivers Of Hope Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chantilly, VA
Charmaine R. Dockett-Rivers Of Hope Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
**TeleHealth Counseling Available!** I bring authentic listening joined with the power of hope into the counseling relationship. When life brings its seasons of challenges and difficulties, I am confident that a road traveled together is the beginning of change. I believe in the uniqueness of individuals and without judgment, bring faith for the faithful and faithless. I compassionately help those struggling with relationship conflicts, self-esteem issues, trauma, addictions, partners suffering from sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, shame and spiritual brokenness.
**TeleHealth Counseling Available!** I bring authentic listening joined with the power of hope into the counseling relationship. When life brings its seasons of challenges and difficulties, I am confident that a road traveled together is the beginning of change. I believe in the uniqueness of individuals and without judgment, bring faith for the faithful and faithless. I compassionately help those struggling with relationship conflicts, self-esteem issues, trauma, addictions, partners suffering from sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, shame and spiritual brokenness.
(571) 200-4669 View (571) 200-4669
Photo of Andrea Levy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chantilly, VA
Andrea Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20151
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
(703) 634-4782 View (703) 634-4782
Photo of Dessia Crawmer, LCSW Private Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chantilly, VA
Dessia Crawmer, LCSW Private Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
I believe therapeutic skill combined with sensitive attunement can illuminate a healing path, removing psychological barriers and empowering clients to reach their full potential. I am a highly competent psychotherapist with twenty-two years of counseling experience. I specialize in creating a safe environment to explore issues that will result in integration and lasting change. The relationship bond that I form with each client, I consider a sacred trust to be guarded and respected. I use a deeply effective EMDR model which produces desirable results proven by research. I have EMDR certification . I counsel individuals, couples, and families. Visit my website for more information.
I believe therapeutic skill combined with sensitive attunement can illuminate a healing path, removing psychological barriers and empowering clients to reach their full potential. I am a highly competent psychotherapist with twenty-two years of counseling experience. I specialize in creating a safe environment to explore issues that will result in integration and lasting change. The relationship bond that I form with each client, I consider a sacred trust to be guarded and respected. I use a deeply effective EMDR model which produces desirable results proven by research. I have EMDR certification . I counsel individuals, couples, and families. Visit my website for more information.
(703) 496-4550 View (703) 496-4550
Photo of Raymond A. Bradni, Psychologist in Chantilly, VA
Raymond A. Bradni
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
In my therapeutic approach, we will explore your experience of mind-body (psychosomatic) dysregulation that caused the physical symptoms such as gastrointestinal problems (e.g., Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional nausea, functional abdominal pain, chronic pain, trauma-related weight gain, sleep-wake cycle dysregulation, etc. Metaphorically speaking, our therapeutic relationship will function as a container that holds complex emotions so we can explore, tolerate, and process them without judgment. As a result, your body will be relieved from its containing function, and the physical symptoms will diminish.
In my therapeutic approach, we will explore your experience of mind-body (psychosomatic) dysregulation that caused the physical symptoms such as gastrointestinal problems (e.g., Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional nausea, functional abdominal pain, chronic pain, trauma-related weight gain, sleep-wake cycle dysregulation, etc. Metaphorically speaking, our therapeutic relationship will function as a container that holds complex emotions so we can explore, tolerate, and process them without judgment. As a result, your body will be relieved from its containing function, and the physical symptoms will diminish.
(571) 470-6791 View (571) 470-6791

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kathi Scholz, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chantilly, VA
Kathi Scholz, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
My integration of Imago, Gottman and EFT is used for couples work.
Life can be a roller coaster. It takes us high with the birth of a child, falling in love, or reaching new goals. It may drop us low mourning a death, suffering abuse, grappling with sexual issues, feeling isolated. Sometimes we feel stuck with no hope on the horizon. You are unique but not alone. Whatever your struggles might be, fighting these battles on your own can be difficult, painful and overwhelming. Your struggles are your journey and sometimes it feels like that road comes to a dead end. Because each journey is unique, I use an integration of therapies to seek other inroads into your healing. One size does not fit all.
My integration of Imago, Gottman and EFT is used for couples work.
Life can be a roller coaster. It takes us high with the birth of a child, falling in love, or reaching new goals. It may drop us low mourning a death, suffering abuse, grappling with sexual issues, feeling isolated. Sometimes we feel stuck with no hope on the horizon. You are unique but not alone. Whatever your struggles might be, fighting these battles on your own can be difficult, painful and overwhelming. Your struggles are your journey and sometimes it feels like that road comes to a dead end. Because each journey is unique, I use an integration of therapies to seek other inroads into your healing. One size does not fit all.
(703) 957-7439 View (703) 957-7439
Photo of Alan Pachter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chantilly, VA
Alan Pachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I use a variety of techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Imago Relationship Therapy as well as various other techniques that I have learned in my training.
The focus of my practice is to help people manage and cope better, and to help them understand themselves better in the process. I find it incredibly gratifying to be part of the healing and growth process that defines the psychotherapy experience. My patients work on relationship issues, substance abuse issues, work issues, depression and anxiety issues, and developmental issues having to do with the ever changing demands on all of us as we get older. I also work with couples and families, with particular emphasis on adolescence and young adulthood in the family work that I do.
I use a variety of techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Imago Relationship Therapy as well as various other techniques that I have learned in my training.
The focus of my practice is to help people manage and cope better, and to help them understand themselves better in the process. I find it incredibly gratifying to be part of the healing and growth process that defines the psychotherapy experience. My patients work on relationship issues, substance abuse issues, work issues, depression and anxiety issues, and developmental issues having to do with the ever changing demands on all of us as we get older. I also work with couples and families, with particular emphasis on adolescence and young adulthood in the family work that I do.
(571) 777-0784 View (571) 777-0784
Photo of Mary Suzette Zimomra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chantilly, VA
Mary Suzette Zimomra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
I use a variety of techniques in my work such as cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, family systems therapy, and imago and emotion focused couples therapy.
RELATIONSHIPS--CHILDREN--ADULTS I help clients learn healthy relationship skills such as how to communicate needs and wants, encourage empathy and respect, set boundaries, and improve self confidence. I work with all ages including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am a supportive and direct therapist and will encourage you to be kind and honest towards yourself and others.
I use a variety of techniques in my work such as cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, family systems therapy, and imago and emotion focused couples therapy.
RELATIONSHIPS--CHILDREN--ADULTS I help clients learn healthy relationship skills such as how to communicate needs and wants, encourage empathy and respect, set boundaries, and improve self confidence. I work with all ages including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am a supportive and direct therapist and will encourage you to be kind and honest towards yourself and others.
(703) 831-8300 View (703) 831-8300
Joan Rockwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Other treatment modalities include psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR, DBT, Imago Relationship Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I have experience treating a broad range of issues including depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, life transition issues, work-related issues, stress management, self-esteem issues. I also work with co-occurring disorders and with couples who are struggling in their relationships due to addictive behaviors. When indicated, I work collaboratively with other therapists to maximize therapeutic benefits.
Other treatment modalities include psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR, DBT, Imago Relationship Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I have experience treating a broad range of issues including depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, life transition issues, work-related issues, stress management, self-esteem issues. I also work with co-occurring disorders and with couples who are struggling in their relationships due to addictive behaviors. When indicated, I work collaboratively with other therapists to maximize therapeutic benefits.
(540) 908-3815 View (540) 908-3815
Photo of Kwangsuk Hutchinson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chantilly, VA
Kwangsuk Hutchinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CIRT, QMHP-A
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
As a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist(CIRT), and a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), I have experience in helping individual, marital, premarital and family discord, cultural issues with interracial couples, children, parenting, interpersonal issues, depression, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues and others. The pain that humans experience is diverse, deep, and wide. But there is also healing power within everyone to overcome pain. I believe that there is healing power within every person and that each person has good qualities that are unique to them.
As a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist(CIRT), and a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), I have experience in helping individual, marital, premarital and family discord, cultural issues with interracial couples, children, parenting, interpersonal issues, depression, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues and others. The pain that humans experience is diverse, deep, and wide. But there is also healing power within everyone to overcome pain. I believe that there is healing power within every person and that each person has good qualities that are unique to them.
(571) 200-1280 View (571) 200-1280
Photo of Christa Jallorina Christian Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chantilly, VA
Christa Jallorina Christian Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burke, VA 22015  (Online Only)
My training includes Biblical Counseling, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, Functional Family Therapy, the Masterson Technique and IMAGO communication skills.
In 2018, Because of the busyness in Northern Virginia, I opened an online practice to make Christian counseling more accessible. After moving to Florida, I expanded the services. I am licensed as an LCSW in both Virginia and Florida. You can receive professional support from the comfort of your own space. I enjoy working with individuals who suffer from anxiety disorders, depression, relationship difficulties and stress management. I tailor your counseling experience to you, using worksheets, talk therapy, art, DBT workbooks, CBT and a variety of other research-based methods.
My training includes Biblical Counseling, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, Functional Family Therapy, the Masterson Technique and IMAGO communication skills.
In 2018, Because of the busyness in Northern Virginia, I opened an online practice to make Christian counseling more accessible. After moving to Florida, I expanded the services. I am licensed as an LCSW in both Virginia and Florida. You can receive professional support from the comfort of your own space. I enjoy working with individuals who suffer from anxiety disorders, depression, relationship difficulties and stress management. I tailor your counseling experience to you, using worksheets, talk therapy, art, DBT workbooks, CBT and a variety of other research-based methods.
(813) 590-1559 View (813) 590-1559
Photo of Jan Beauregard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chantilly, VA
Jan Beauregard
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CSAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Beauregard is a CSAC (Certified Substance Abuse Counselor), a CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Certified in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist, an EMDR Certified Consultant and Brain Spotting practitioner.
If you are having difficulties coping with stress related to unresolved anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse or other process addictions (eating disorders, compulsive sexuality, repetitive patterns of dysfunction in relationships, gambling, workaholism) you may wish to work with a specialist at IPI who is Certified to treat these conditions. The clinical director will speak to you personally about the goals you have for therapy and match you to the clinician who best meets your needs.
Beauregard is a CSAC (Certified Substance Abuse Counselor), a CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Certified in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist, an EMDR Certified Consultant and Brain Spotting practitioner.
If you are having difficulties coping with stress related to unresolved anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse or other process addictions (eating disorders, compulsive sexuality, repetitive patterns of dysfunction in relationships, gambling, workaholism) you may wish to work with a specialist at IPI who is Certified to treat these conditions. The clinical director will speak to you personally about the goals you have for therapy and match you to the clinician who best meets your needs.
(703) 349-4558 x1 View (703) 349-4558 x1
Photo of Sofia Anna Crowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chantilly, VA
Sofia Anna Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
I have been a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. I have enjoyed wide-ranging training and employment in many settings, including supervising a county-wide suicide hotline, in an adolescent residential facility, intensive outpatient and in-home therapy. I have worked in diverse settings, such as Johns Hopkins Methadone/Suboxone program and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I am experienced in diverse treatment modalities, including DBT (couples and family) dual-diagnosis treatment, Imago and in Imago/communication focused couples therapy, and multi-systemic or strategic family therapy.
I have been a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. I have enjoyed wide-ranging training and employment in many settings, including supervising a county-wide suicide hotline, in an adolescent residential facility, intensive outpatient and in-home therapy. I have worked in diverse settings, such as Johns Hopkins Methadone/Suboxone program and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I am experienced in diverse treatment modalities, including DBT (couples and family) dual-diagnosis treatment, Imago and in Imago/communication focused couples therapy, and multi-systemic or strategic family therapy.
(804) 596-4564 View (804) 596-4564
Photo of Kate Kelley, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chantilly, VA
Kate Kelley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, ImagoEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22042
I bring a wide range of life experiences as well as a significant depth of education in Imago Relationship theory to the couples I counsel. I promote and respect each partner's individual worldview. My hope is that my couples celebrate the differences that each partner brings to their union. I facilitate a dialogue process that can be incorporated into the couple's relationship toolbox. In trusting the process of dialogue, I find that the couple shifts from distance to connection when they learn the "real story" as to why their partner's behavior or reactive energy occurs.
I bring a wide range of life experiences as well as a significant depth of education in Imago Relationship theory to the couples I counsel. I promote and respect each partner's individual worldview. My hope is that my couples celebrate the differences that each partner brings to their union. I facilitate a dialogue process that can be incorporated into the couple's relationship toolbox. In trusting the process of dialogue, I find that the couple shifts from distance to connection when they learn the "real story" as to why their partner's behavior or reactive energy occurs.
(410) 995-9391 View (410) 995-9391
Photo of Sunstone Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chantilly, VA
Sunstone Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
I am a trained IMAGO therapist and integrate many other couples approaches in my work.
In my clinical practice, Sunstone Counseling, I help clients overcome a variety of concerns related to the symptoms of anxiety, panic disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, suicidal ideation, shame, low self-esteem, body image, betrayal, and relationship issues. I specialize in women’s issues (pregnancy, perinatal mood disorders, becoming a new mom, and sexuality issues) and couples work (premarital counseling, new parents, low/no sex, repair after an affair, and second marriages – to name a few). I completed Brené Brown’s Daring Way training and am a Certified Daring Way Facilitator.
I am a trained IMAGO therapist and integrate many other couples approaches in my work.
In my clinical practice, Sunstone Counseling, I help clients overcome a variety of concerns related to the symptoms of anxiety, panic disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, suicidal ideation, shame, low self-esteem, body image, betrayal, and relationship issues. I specialize in women’s issues (pregnancy, perinatal mood disorders, becoming a new mom, and sexuality issues) and couples work (premarital counseling, new parents, low/no sex, repair after an affair, and second marriages – to name a few). I completed Brené Brown’s Daring Way training and am a Certified Daring Way Facilitator.
(540) 947-1929 View (540) 947-1929
Photo of Marriage Healing Center, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chantilly, VA
Marriage Healing Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
Are you going through a struggle in your marriage or romantic relationship? Do you feel that the connection you once shared when you first met is waning? Have you tried to address issues with your partner on your own, but are still feeling stuck? There is hope for your relationship. We are a team of marriage therapists with a number of years of experience in working with couples. The majority of therapists are trained in the Gottman Method or Imago Therapy. We have helped numerous couples get through the power struggle phase of their relationship to find a connection.
Are you going through a struggle in your marriage or romantic relationship? Do you feel that the connection you once shared when you first met is waning? Have you tried to address issues with your partner on your own, but are still feeling stuck? There is hope for your relationship. We are a team of marriage therapists with a number of years of experience in working with couples. The majority of therapists are trained in the Gottman Method or Imago Therapy. We have helped numerous couples get through the power struggle phase of their relationship to find a connection.
(703) 297-8458 View (703) 297-8458
Photo of Dr. Linda G. Ritchie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chantilly, VA
Dr. Linda G. Ritchie
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
I help professional adults struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, self-doubt and self-sabotaging behaviors find relief and take control of their lives. I help couples and family members struggling with arguments filled with criticism and defensiveness, learn the skills to move through the issues and get to workable solutions and feel more intimately connected. I draw from extensive training and life experiences for effective, results-oriented sessions. With a direct and interactive approach, I work with clients to achieve both short-term impact as well as lifelong changes. I strive to use your time efficiently.
I help professional adults struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, self-doubt and self-sabotaging behaviors find relief and take control of their lives. I help couples and family members struggling with arguments filled with criticism and defensiveness, learn the skills to move through the issues and get to workable solutions and feel more intimately connected. I draw from extensive training and life experiences for effective, results-oriented sessions. With a direct and interactive approach, I work with clients to achieve both short-term impact as well as lifelong changes. I strive to use your time efficiently.
(703) 437-6311 View (703) 437-6311
Photo of Darleena Rae Cozzo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chantilly, VA
Darleena Rae Cozzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP , NCC
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171  (Online Only)
About Darleena Cozzo , is a licensed professional counselor serving Virginia and Tennessee who has over 28 years of experience in the social services field. Darleena's style is warm and professional and, at the same time, passionate and committed to you and your relationships. Darleena focuses on personal and spiritual growth to over-come the fears, regrets, and excuses that keep us stuck, depressed, anxious and unable to ACT.
About Darleena Cozzo , is a licensed professional counselor serving Virginia and Tennessee who has over 28 years of experience in the social services field. Darleena's style is warm and professional and, at the same time, passionate and committed to you and your relationships. Darleena focuses on personal and spiritual growth to over-come the fears, regrets, and excuses that keep us stuck, depressed, anxious and unable to ACT.
(865) 344-2940 View (865) 344-2940
Photo of Victoria Whitfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chantilly, VA
Victoria Whitfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Life can have wonderful times and it can also bring really complicated moments that bring up an influx of emotions. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship distress or parenting issues I will walk alongside you, encourage you and coach you along your path.
Life can have wonderful times and it can also bring really complicated moments that bring up an influx of emotions. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship distress or parenting issues I will walk alongside you, encourage you and coach you along your path.
(571) 556-3002 View (571) 556-3002
Photo of Mary W Lindahl, Psychologist in Chantilly, VA
Mary W Lindahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Sometimes even the strongest people need help to work through life’s more challenging problems. I offer psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families, using a variety of modalities such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, play therapy, and family systems approaches. Working collaboratively, I tailor therapy to successfully address the client’s individual needs and goals. I also offer consultation with interested colleagues on issues involved in diagnosis and therapy, working with allied professionals, and encounters with the legal system.
Sometimes even the strongest people need help to work through life’s more challenging problems. I offer psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families, using a variety of modalities such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, play therapy, and family systems approaches. Working collaboratively, I tailor therapy to successfully address the client’s individual needs and goals. I also offer consultation with interested colleagues on issues involved in diagnosis and therapy, working with allied professionals, and encounters with the legal system.
(571) 458-1492 View (571) 458-1492
Photo of Linda Parkes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chantilly, VA
Linda Parkes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CGP, TFT-RT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
As an interactive, solution-focused therapist and career counselor, my treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients address current life challenges, work situations and long-standing issues. With compassion and understanding, and workplace knowledge, I help individuals find resolution to a wide range of personal concerns, career change and psychological issues. With an integration of complimentary approaches, I draw from a variety of methodologies and techniques to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual.
As an interactive, solution-focused therapist and career counselor, my treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients address current life challenges, work situations and long-standing issues. With compassion and understanding, and workplace knowledge, I help individuals find resolution to a wide range of personal concerns, career change and psychological issues. With an integration of complimentary approaches, I draw from a variety of methodologies and techniques to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual.
(703) 591-9600 x101 View (703) 591-9600 x101

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.