Therapists in Toms River, NJ
BetterWay Counseling Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753 (Online Only)
Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner is an experienced therapist licensed in both NJ and California. Tamara tailors her approach to best suit the client and their needs and draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, Exposure Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy. Tamara has experience with crisis management, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, body image and relationship issues. Tamara obtained her master’s degree in Marriage And Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide with Summa Cum Laude. Tamara accepts insurance.
Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner is an experienced therapist licensed in both NJ and California. Tamara tailors her approach to best suit the client and their needs and draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, Exposure Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy. Tamara has experience with crisis management, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, body image and relationship issues. Tamara obtained her master’s degree in Marriage And Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide with Summa Cum Laude. Tamara accepts insurance.
Jody Rodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
I have an eclectic approach to therapy. If you prefer a very clinical therapist, I’m not for you, unless particular clients would benefit from a more clinical approach. I love working with individuals who are navigating their life, including those with mental illnesses. (21 - 100yrs old), couples, including LGBTQ. I also coach and counsel those who have bipolar disorders, as well as educating them and their loved ones. I see adults with autistic spectrum disorders, depression, PTSD and anxiety. In addition, I also provide grief counseling and counseling to seriously Ill clients. I am the coach! You are the athlete!
I have an eclectic approach to therapy. If you prefer a very clinical therapist, I’m not for you, unless particular clients would benefit from a more clinical approach. I love working with individuals who are navigating their life, including those with mental illnesses. (21 - 100yrs old), couples, including LGBTQ. I also coach and counsel those who have bipolar disorders, as well as educating them and their loved ones. I see adults with autistic spectrum disorders, depression, PTSD and anxiety. In addition, I also provide grief counseling and counseling to seriously Ill clients. I am the coach! You are the athlete!
Diana Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
In a relaxed, nonjudgemental environment, I will help you find peace with your past, take control of your future, be mindful of the present. Together we will develop an empowering personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Focus will be on challenging your belief systems, gaining insight into self-destructive behavior patterns, learn alternative skills & techniques for coping with stress, anxiety, depression, parenting, relationships, and managing your emotions. I have extensive experience helping those with addictive/obsessive thoughts/ behaviors, toxic relationships and emotional eating. You have the power to thrive, not just survive! In addition to office visits, video conferencing / phone counseling available.
In a relaxed, nonjudgemental environment, I will help you find peace with your past, take control of your future, be mindful of the present. Together we will develop an empowering personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Focus will be on challenging your belief systems, gaining insight into self-destructive behavior patterns, learn alternative skills & techniques for coping with stress, anxiety, depression, parenting, relationships, and managing your emotions. I have extensive experience helping those with addictive/obsessive thoughts/ behaviors, toxic relationships and emotional eating. You have the power to thrive, not just survive! In addition to office visits, video conferencing / phone counseling available.
Leisha Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, CJC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Leisha Thompson is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing individual and group therapy Some of the groups are Co-Parenting, Anger Management, Domestic Violence/Batterer's Intervention and Substance Abuse.She has recently expanded her private practice, Thompson Therapy Group in Brick, NJ, which is now offering a multitude of modalities addressing depression, trauma, anxiety, PTS, ADHD, ASD, and auditory processing issues such as the revolutionary psych-sensory therapy called Havening along with Unyte's integrated listening therapies based on Dr Porges' Polyvagal Theory called Safe and Sound Protocol and the Focus system.
Leisha Thompson is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing individual and group therapy Some of the groups are Co-Parenting, Anger Management, Domestic Violence/Batterer's Intervention and Substance Abuse.She has recently expanded her private practice, Thompson Therapy Group in Brick, NJ, which is now offering a multitude of modalities addressing depression, trauma, anxiety, PTS, ADHD, ASD, and auditory processing issues such as the revolutionary psych-sensory therapy called Havening along with Unyte's integrated listening therapies based on Dr Porges' Polyvagal Theory called Safe and Sound Protocol and the Focus system.
Tia Marie Bach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08757
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR TELETHERAPY. I serve individuals, couples, families, children (age 6+) and adolescents. I specialize in child and adolescent trauma services (TF-CBT) and have extensive experience working with the GLBTQ community. Areas of focus include but are not limited to: anxiety/panic, depression, self- esteem, behavioral issues, sexual/physical trauma, marital/family issues, aging challenges, grief, chronic pain, anger management, OCD, life transitions, relationship challenges, improving coping skills and effective communication.My objective is to help all individuals realize their full potential.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR TELETHERAPY. I serve individuals, couples, families, children (age 6+) and adolescents. I specialize in child and adolescent trauma services (TF-CBT) and have extensive experience working with the GLBTQ community. Areas of focus include but are not limited to: anxiety/panic, depression, self- esteem, behavioral issues, sexual/physical trauma, marital/family issues, aging challenges, grief, chronic pain, anger management, OCD, life transitions, relationship challenges, improving coping skills and effective communication.My objective is to help all individuals realize their full potential.
Molly Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CTTS
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753 (Online Only)
Accepting new telehealth clients! My clients describe me as a relaxed, real, calm, upfront, "kind yet challenging" sort of therapist. I strive to create a safe, open and collaborative space for you to dig in and explore. I have experience working with lots of issues but my specialties include: anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, infertility and life coaching. I primarily use techniques such as CBT, DBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing and I feel strongly that each and every one of us has the innate resiliency and power to make the positive changes we want in our lives. Take charge of your life today and give me a call:)
Accepting new telehealth clients! My clients describe me as a relaxed, real, calm, upfront, "kind yet challenging" sort of therapist. I strive to create a safe, open and collaborative space for you to dig in and explore. I have experience working with lots of issues but my specialties include: anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, infertility and life coaching. I primarily use techniques such as CBT, DBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing and I feel strongly that each and every one of us has the innate resiliency and power to make the positive changes we want in our lives. Take charge of your life today and give me a call:)
We Level Up NJ Addiction Rehab & Detox Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
More Therapists Nearby
Kimberly Kirchofer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
Kimberly Kirchofer is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey with 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families seeking help with anxiety, trauma, anger management, self esteem, depression, life transitions, family counseling, and relationship issues. Kimberly graduated with a Master of Arts in Counseling from Kean University. Kimberly utilizes a collaborative approach tapping into relational, strength based, solution focused, cognitive behavioral, emotional, holistic therapies always catering to each individual’s needs.
Kimberly Kirchofer is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey with 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families seeking help with anxiety, trauma, anger management, self esteem, depression, life transitions, family counseling, and relationship issues. Kimberly graduated with a Master of Arts in Counseling from Kean University. Kimberly utilizes a collaborative approach tapping into relational, strength based, solution focused, cognitive behavioral, emotional, holistic therapies always catering to each individual’s needs.
Online Therapists
Judy V. Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550 (Online Only)
Specifically, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, with attention to relationship skill development, Nurtured Heart Approach, Imago Couples Counseling and Positive Psychology.
Hi, we all face challenges in our lives from time to time. Talking with a professional counselor in an open and honest way leads to self-discovery and healing. As owner of Choose Happiness, LLC, I work with people from all walks of life, educational levels, ages and cultures who are experiencing any number of emotional and/or behavioral challenges. Please, join me in working to help you explore and resolve your life's challenges. Some of the common issues people bring to me are, how to cope with anxiety, depression, attention issues, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, life transitions, career and school issues.
Specifically, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, with attention to relationship skill development, Nurtured Heart Approach, Imago Couples Counseling and Positive Psychology.
Hi, we all face challenges in our lives from time to time. Talking with a professional counselor in an open and honest way leads to self-discovery and healing. As owner of Choose Happiness, LLC, I work with people from all walks of life, educational levels, ages and cultures who are experiencing any number of emotional and/or behavioral challenges. Please, join me in working to help you explore and resolve your life's challenges. Some of the common issues people bring to me are, how to cope with anxiety, depression, attention issues, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, life transitions, career and school issues.
Lauren Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
I am trained in Imago Therapy for couples, which puts the focus on repairing communication patterns in relationships and understanding each partners’ needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in a variety of settings. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and my Masters in Social Work from NYU. I worked with military Veterans for over 13 years in a variety of settings. Additionally, I have extensive experience with high-risk clients with a myriad of diagnoses, including Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and PTSD.
I am trained in Imago Therapy for couples, which puts the focus on repairing communication patterns in relationships and understanding each partners’ needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in a variety of settings. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and my Masters in Social Work from NYU. I worked with military Veterans for over 13 years in a variety of settings. Additionally, I have extensive experience with high-risk clients with a myriad of diagnoses, including Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and PTSD.
Caitlin M Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
I also specialize in Imago Couples Therapy and utilize Terry Real's "New Rules of Marriage" approach.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Heart-Centered Hypnotherapist. I treat individuals and couples. My life's work is to support others as they cross the bridge from a place of self doubt, victimization and crisis to lives full of awareness, personal responsibility and universal compassion. You have the answers within to transform your life; I'm simply a guide on your journey back "home" to your intrinsically loving self. While you may already "know what your issues are", do you feel stuck to break through and move forward into the life you really want to be living? That's when we know it's time to go deeper.
I also specialize in Imago Couples Therapy and utilize Terry Real's "New Rules of Marriage" approach.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Heart-Centered Hypnotherapist. I treat individuals and couples. My life's work is to support others as they cross the bridge from a place of self doubt, victimization and crisis to lives full of awareness, personal responsibility and universal compassion. You have the answers within to transform your life; I'm simply a guide on your journey back "home" to your intrinsically loving self. While you may already "know what your issues are", do you feel stuck to break through and move forward into the life you really want to be living? That's when we know it's time to go deeper.
Carolyn Piro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moorestown, NJ 08057
I offer Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Imago, Sand Tray therapy, Polyvagal Theory in Therapy (my favorite), Trauma Narrative, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
Hey there - you've taken that first step and are poking around Psychology Today. Or maybe you've been here before and are curious about therapy. That's great. I work with people and couples who understand that therapy is a process and that there are no quick fixes. Most of the people who walk through my doors know that life could be better, but don't quite know how to make that happen. They are ready for change. I work with couples and individuals who believe they have limited options in therapy. You are welcome here. Most of my clients want to address trauma, anxiety, stress, affair recovery, poor communication, and depression.
I offer Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Imago, Sand Tray therapy, Polyvagal Theory in Therapy (my favorite), Trauma Narrative, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
Hey there - you've taken that first step and are poking around Psychology Today. Or maybe you've been here before and are curious about therapy. That's great. I work with people and couples who understand that therapy is a process and that there are no quick fixes. Most of the people who walk through my doors know that life could be better, but don't quite know how to make that happen. They are ready for change. I work with couples and individuals who believe they have limited options in therapy. You are welcome here. Most of my clients want to address trauma, anxiety, stress, affair recovery, poor communication, and depression.
Jean S Sweetman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
Little Silver, NJ 07739
Trained in Imago Couples Therapy, Jean does extensive work with couples dialogue, acceptance and helps to create a safe place while exploring our differences.
Jean Sweetman obtained her Master's Degree in Educational Psychology , June 1985, from the City University of New York at Brooklyn College. She received her post-graduate certification from the Institute in Reality Therapy from Vancouver University in 2000. Jean is certified by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2005. Prior to her clinical work at Life Psychotherapy, Jean worked for 31 years as a School Psychologist with a client centered focus on helping children, adolescents, adults and families maneuver issues of anxiety, depression , self- esteem and transition.
Trained in Imago Couples Therapy, Jean does extensive work with couples dialogue, acceptance and helps to create a safe place while exploring our differences.
Jean Sweetman obtained her Master's Degree in Educational Psychology , June 1985, from the City University of New York at Brooklyn College. She received her post-graduate certification from the Institute in Reality Therapy from Vancouver University in 2000. Jean is certified by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2005. Prior to her clinical work at Life Psychotherapy, Jean worked for 31 years as a School Psychologist with a client centered focus on helping children, adolescents, adults and families maneuver issues of anxiety, depression , self- esteem and transition.
Lise Deguire
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
I am also certified in Imago Relationship Therapy, and have a strong interest in helping all couples improve their relationships.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, and have been working with clients for over 30 years. In addition to years of experience, I bring a balance of careful listening, warmth, respectful feedback and skill building to my work with clients. I work with individuals and couples, and would be glad to speak with you about your concerns.
I am also certified in Imago Relationship Therapy, and have a strong interest in helping all couples improve their relationships.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, and have been working with clients for over 30 years. In addition to years of experience, I bring a balance of careful listening, warmth, respectful feedback and skill building to my work with clients. I work with individuals and couples, and would be glad to speak with you about your concerns.
Intimacy Institute, LLC
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07091
I am a relationship expert specializing in individual and couples therapy, focusing in Imago Therapy. I've helped numerous couples reconnect, build healthy marriages and work through the challenges of divorce and finding love again. At the core of my work is an integrative approach that helps women and men accept themselves more and connect to others in meaningful ways. My experience in private practice and community mental health settings provides individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues with a collaborative approach for growth and healing.
I am a relationship expert specializing in individual and couples therapy, focusing in Imago Therapy. I've helped numerous couples reconnect, build healthy marriages and work through the challenges of divorce and finding love again. At the core of my work is an integrative approach that helps women and men accept themselves more and connect to others in meaningful ways. My experience in private practice and community mental health settings provides individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues with a collaborative approach for growth and healing.
Robin S. Shimel, LCSW, Psychotherapy Svcs, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Incorporating a mindfulness based approach to Psychodynamic, Imago, EFT and CBT therapies enhances the effectiveness of the work.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, my enthusiasm for my work has only grown. I view my role as a facilitator, helping people discover individual strengths while becoming accepting and respectful of vulnerabilities. Learning healthy ways to survive major life crises and/or chronic conditions is also a focus. I teach effective communication skills to increase understanding and respect for differences while enhancing growth in connection. If asked about my greatest asset as a therapist, it is my ability to "listen," and to provide a safe place for exploration and resolution.
Incorporating a mindfulness based approach to Psychodynamic, Imago, EFT and CBT therapies enhances the effectiveness of the work.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, my enthusiasm for my work has only grown. I view my role as a facilitator, helping people discover individual strengths while becoming accepting and respectful of vulnerabilities. Learning healthy ways to survive major life crises and/or chronic conditions is also a focus. I teach effective communication skills to increase understanding and respect for differences while enhancing growth in connection. If asked about my greatest asset as a therapist, it is my ability to "listen," and to provide a safe place for exploration and resolution.
Rebecca Dombrowsky-Henriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Imago Couple Therapy re-establishes connection with your partner through the practice of communication techniques.
In my twenty years of working in the mental health field, I've learned that it is not the situation that can render us helpless, but the meaning we create about the situation. The judgments we make about ourselves and others can make a situation worse, creating anxiety, depression, or undue stress. I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions to decrease self defeating patterns and negative self-talk. You will be engaged in a partnership as treatment goals are identified to personalize your care. I specialize in the following therapies: DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnotherapy, and Imago Couple Therapy.
Imago Couple Therapy re-establishes connection with your partner through the practice of communication techniques.
In my twenty years of working in the mental health field, I've learned that it is not the situation that can render us helpless, but the meaning we create about the situation. The judgments we make about ourselves and others can make a situation worse, creating anxiety, depression, or undue stress. I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions to decrease self defeating patterns and negative self-talk. You will be engaged in a partnership as treatment goals are identified to personalize your care. I specialize in the following therapies: DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnotherapy, and Imago Couple Therapy.
Deborah Kaschak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876 (Online Only)
I use a strengths-based approach to counseling, employing a variety of therapeutic techniques from the following approaches: EMDR, trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, relaxation techniques, psychodynamic, IMAGO, and family systems.
I have enjoyed working in the mental health field for nearly 20 years and work with a diverse group of clients, including children, adults, couples, and families. I am a licensed clinical social worker and hold graduate degrees in both Social Work and Psychology. I have experience in helping clients cope with various issues, including mood disorders, panic disorder, stress and anxiety, personality disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, anger management, and general relationship issues. I have experience in the field of adoption, helping couples work through grief and loss issues related to infertility and educating families about adoption and parenting issues.
I use a strengths-based approach to counseling, employing a variety of therapeutic techniques from the following approaches: EMDR, trauma-focused, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, relaxation techniques, psychodynamic, IMAGO, and family systems.
I have enjoyed working in the mental health field for nearly 20 years and work with a diverse group of clients, including children, adults, couples, and families. I am a licensed clinical social worker and hold graduate degrees in both Social Work and Psychology. I have experience in helping clients cope with various issues, including mood disorders, panic disorder, stress and anxiety, personality disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, anger management, and general relationship issues. I have experience in the field of adoption, helping couples work through grief and loss issues related to infertility and educating families about adoption and parenting issues.
Mindful Therapy of Monmouth County LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
I am an ASCH Approved Certified Hypnotherapist, a Certified Imago Couples Therapist, and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Psychodrama.
Life can be challenging and we all have our ups and downs. At times, it can be difficult to move past what is getting in our way of our happiness in order to be our true selves. There is nothing like having an objective outsider that can truly listen in a non-judgmental way, help you to reflect on the situation and factors that may be contributing, and together come up with strategies which can allow you to move forward in a more thoughtful and meaningful way. I am here to be that person for you.
I am an ASCH Approved Certified Hypnotherapist, a Certified Imago Couples Therapist, and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Psychodrama.
Life can be challenging and we all have our ups and downs. At times, it can be difficult to move past what is getting in our way of our happiness in order to be our true selves. There is nothing like having an objective outsider that can truly listen in a non-judgmental way, help you to reflect on the situation and factors that may be contributing, and together come up with strategies which can allow you to move forward in a more thoughtful and meaningful way. I am here to be that person for you.
Robin Hyson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Morganville, NJ 07751
I utilize other evidenced based practices including CBT, REBT, Imago theory & mindfulness.
Therapy is a process in which a client & therapist work together to accomplish stated goals & goals that develop during the process. We can create the relationships & the life that we want. I work with clients who want to become empowered to take control of things they feel they have lost control over & to push themselves in areas where they wish to achieve better results. My practice partners are accepting new clients. Sessions are telehealth & we have some limited availability in person. Call us or visit our "Empowerment Center" website to schedule an appointment with one of us at: www.empowermentcenternj.com
I utilize other evidenced based practices including CBT, REBT, Imago theory & mindfulness.
Therapy is a process in which a client & therapist work together to accomplish stated goals & goals that develop during the process. We can create the relationships & the life that we want. I work with clients who want to become empowered to take control of things they feel they have lost control over & to push themselves in areas where they wish to achieve better results. My practice partners are accepting new clients. Sessions are telehealth & we have some limited availability in person. Call us or visit our "Empowerment Center" website to schedule an appointment with one of us at: www.empowermentcenternj.com
See more therapy options for Toms River
Nearby Imago Therapists Searches for Toms River
- Asbury Park
- Brick
- Freehold
- Holmdel
- Lakewood
- Manalapan
- Manasquan
- Marlboro
- Morganville
- Point Pleasant
- Red Bank
- Wall Township
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.