Photo of Brenda Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28677
I have specialized training in Imago Relationship Counseling.
Hi. I am Brenda Martin. I am a licensed clinical social work/therapist with thirty years experience. I offer services to children and families, teens, couples, and adults. I understand that contacting a mental health provider can be a frightening situation. I explain to you over the phone what to expect, and work to put you at ease from the first moment we talk. I enjoy assisting people in finding their strengths and utilizing them to overcome the current problems. My office is located in the downtown Statesville, NC area with easy access. I look forward to talking with you.
I have specialized training in Imago Relationship Counseling.
Hi. I am Brenda Martin. I am a licensed clinical social work/therapist with thirty years experience. I offer services to children and families, teens, couples, and adults. I understand that contacting a mental health provider can be a frightening situation. I explain to you over the phone what to expect, and work to put you at ease from the first moment we talk. I enjoy assisting people in finding their strengths and utilizing them to overcome the current problems. My office is located in the downtown Statesville, NC area with easy access. I look forward to talking with you.
(704) 764-1531 View (704) 764-1531
Photo of Sondra Harry, PsyD, MS, RN, Psychologist
Sondra Harry
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, RN
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805
Each person comes to the office with unique needs and deserves respect to be heard and understood. Working collaboratively, I offer marriage counseling, along with many other services such as depression and anxiety treatment. As an Imago therapist, we recognize that conflict is growth waiting to happen. I often observe growth and healing in people and feel privileged to have accompanied many on their healing journey. By caring for them, I am personally stretched and shaped through their suffering and in turn only deepens my compassion for others. In part, this creates my tapestry that I hope reflects Grace in paying wisdom forward.
Each person comes to the office with unique needs and deserves respect to be heard and understood. Working collaboratively, I offer marriage counseling, along with many other services such as depression and anxiety treatment. As an Imago therapist, we recognize that conflict is growth waiting to happen. I often observe growth and healing in people and feel privileged to have accompanied many on their healing journey. By caring for them, I am personally stretched and shaped through their suffering and in turn only deepens my compassion for others. In part, this creates my tapestry that I hope reflects Grace in paying wisdom forward.
(828) 604-9174 View (828) 604-9174
Photo of Elaine K Hicks, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine K Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
I am a certified IMAGO THERAPIST utilizing specific techniques for couples issues.
My strengths include a warm and relational manner and a compassionate nature along with experience and intuition, I can help people with relationship issues, including, individuals, couples, families and work related problems. I provide support at all life-stages.I am eclectic while taking into account the particular psycho-dynamics of the individual.I also work extensively with anxiety and depression. I studied at the Harvard Mind and Body Institute. I combine this information into mind body work for anxiety and depression.I have what is most important that is to listen to others with my mind and my heart.
I am a certified IMAGO THERAPIST utilizing specific techniques for couples issues.
My strengths include a warm and relational manner and a compassionate nature along with experience and intuition, I can help people with relationship issues, including, individuals, couples, families and work related problems. I provide support at all life-stages.I am eclectic while taking into account the particular psycho-dynamics of the individual.I also work extensively with anxiety and depression. I studied at the Harvard Mind and Body Institute. I combine this information into mind body work for anxiety and depression.I have what is most important that is to listen to others with my mind and my heart.
(609) 283-2205 View (609) 283-2205
Photo of Kathleen Sheffield, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Sheffield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
This is a collaborative process where feedback is welcomed and reaching your mental health goals is our focus using CBT, EFT, Imago Relationship Theory & DBT.
Offering Relationship Intensives & Pre-Marital Retreats & Sessions! Whether you're navigating a life transition or looking for a change in some area of your life, counseling can provide long term relief and insight.You may notice mental fatigue/fog, intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, difficulty communicating needs, conflict in relationships, chronic pain, difficulty sleeping, or just feel stuck. Learning about the mind-body connection, learn how life events impact our wellbeing, exploring practical strategies for coping, communicating, and connecting. Regain balance and connection with self and others.
This is a collaborative process where feedback is welcomed and reaching your mental health goals is our focus using CBT, EFT, Imago Relationship Theory & DBT.
Offering Relationship Intensives & Pre-Marital Retreats & Sessions! Whether you're navigating a life transition or looking for a change in some area of your life, counseling can provide long term relief and insight.You may notice mental fatigue/fog, intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, difficulty communicating needs, conflict in relationships, chronic pain, difficulty sleeping, or just feel stuck. Learning about the mind-body connection, learn how life events impact our wellbeing, exploring practical strategies for coping, communicating, and connecting. Regain balance and connection with self and others.
(919) 646-6874 View (919) 646-6874
Photo of Leta Bell, MS, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leta Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I am interactive, solution focused and trained in EMDR, the Gottman couples method and Imago Therapy.
Hello, Thank you for visiting my page. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, unresolved grief, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, while being supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open, honest, supportive, and curious. I view psychotherapy as a framework for identifying, understanding, and working through problems that cause people to feel stuck, helpless or insecure about their lives. Ultimately, I consider the goal of psychotherapy as empowering others to reach aspired levels of purpose.
I am interactive, solution focused and trained in EMDR, the Gottman couples method and Imago Therapy.
Hello, Thank you for visiting my page. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, unresolved grief, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, while being supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open, honest, supportive, and curious. I view psychotherapy as a framework for identifying, understanding, and working through problems that cause people to feel stuck, helpless or insecure about their lives. Ultimately, I consider the goal of psychotherapy as empowering others to reach aspired levels of purpose.
(918) 409-0951 View (918) 409-0951
Photo of Merinda Cutshaw, LCMHCA, LCAS, NCC, Counselor
Merinda Cutshaw
Counselor, LCMHCA, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and growth in your life. It is a brave thing to ask for help and work toward real change and I am willing to help you do that. I have five years of experience with group, individual, couples, and family therapy. At River of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness Center I provide SAIOP group therapy (Matrix Model), mental health group therapy, individual, couples, and family therapy. Primary models of individual treatment are CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brief Solution Focused therapy. Couples therapy models of treatment are Imago and Gottman Theory. Call today!
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and growth in your life. It is a brave thing to ask for help and work toward real change and I am willing to help you do that. I have five years of experience with group, individual, couples, and family therapy. At River of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness Center I provide SAIOP group therapy (Matrix Model), mental health group therapy, individual, couples, and family therapy. Primary models of individual treatment are CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brief Solution Focused therapy. Couples therapy models of treatment are Imago and Gottman Theory. Call today!
(828) 471-4515 View (828) 471-4515
Photo of Tracy Boyer-Matthews, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Boyer-Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Imago is both a toolset and mindset for a new way to love.
Relationship Therapy is how I describe my expertise as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Certified in Imago Relationship Therapy for over decade, my passion is working with clients on the core relationships in life. In Couples or Marriage Therapy, my immediate focus is dismantling ineffective communication patterns that evoke circular power struggles. With singles in Individual Therapy I assist in examining relationship histories and learning new ways to attract and keep sustainable love relationships. I also specialize in sex therapy as it pertains to dysfunction, aging, abuse. pornography or reviving new passion in relationships.
Imago is both a toolset and mindset for a new way to love.
Relationship Therapy is how I describe my expertise as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Certified in Imago Relationship Therapy for over decade, my passion is working with clients on the core relationships in life. In Couples or Marriage Therapy, my immediate focus is dismantling ineffective communication patterns that evoke circular power struggles. With singles in Individual Therapy I assist in examining relationship histories and learning new ways to attract and keep sustainable love relationships. I also specialize in sex therapy as it pertains to dysfunction, aging, abuse. pornography or reviving new passion in relationships.
(910) 550-3878 View (910) 550-3878
Photo of Amy Kathryn Parrish, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Kathryn Parrish
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792  (Online Only)
With couples, I draw heavily on Imago and EFT.
My life's passion is working with women in transitional times of their lives and all young adults and middle-aged adults as they move into new life stages or search for a fulfilling career. I greatly enjoy working with LGTBQIA+ clients and with the Latino and immigrant community, and I am also passionate about working with couples, helping partners improve communication and gain insight into how our pasts affect current relationships. I have a special interest in helping people with relationship issues as well as issues related to break-up and divorce, and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and parents.
With couples, I draw heavily on Imago and EFT.
My life's passion is working with women in transitional times of their lives and all young adults and middle-aged adults as they move into new life stages or search for a fulfilling career. I greatly enjoy working with LGTBQIA+ clients and with the Latino and immigrant community, and I am also passionate about working with couples, helping partners improve communication and gain insight into how our pasts affect current relationships. I have a special interest in helping people with relationship issues as well as issues related to break-up and divorce, and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and parents.
(828) 373-8320 View (828) 373-8320
Photo of Carol Greenberger, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
I use Imago, EFT, and Family Systems, to help couples get to the root of their problems.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
I use Imago, EFT, and Family Systems, to help couples get to the root of their problems.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of Kristen Stuhlmueller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Stuhlmueller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
As an Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples to reconnect, heal, and experience full-aliveness again.
We all have parts of ourselves that we don’t fully understand or embrace. Sometimes these aspects of us can create challenges and get in the way of living life with intention, joy, and ease. By developing curiosity and compassion for ourselves and others, we can begin to untangle our stories and view them through new lenses. I work to empower my clients to find meaning and reconnect with their authentic selves. By integrating all parts of ourselves, we can experience incredible transformation. I want to help you find lasting growth and balance, not just temporary relief.
As an Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples to reconnect, heal, and experience full-aliveness again.
We all have parts of ourselves that we don’t fully understand or embrace. Sometimes these aspects of us can create challenges and get in the way of living life with intention, joy, and ease. By developing curiosity and compassion for ourselves and others, we can begin to untangle our stories and view them through new lenses. I work to empower my clients to find meaning and reconnect with their authentic selves. By integrating all parts of ourselves, we can experience incredible transformation. I want to help you find lasting growth and balance, not just temporary relief.
(919) 343-9158 View (919) 343-9158
Photo of Kristin Franks, MS, LCMHC, CLC, Counselor
Kristin Franks
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CLC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
I'm skilled in attachment styles, Imago Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, PREPARE/ENRICH, & EMDR, which I implement with a balanced, dynamic, Christian approach.
Are you searching for relationship satisfaction? Has dating been difficult for you? Do you feel unable to experience a mutually loving bond with someone who wants the same things as you do? As an attachment therapist, I love helping people achieve relational fulfillment. Intimacy is challenging, yet rewarding, when you have healthy and secure attachments with others. Whether you're single, dating, or newly married, I'd love to work with you! I can help you understand your attachment style, and how that plays a key role in the formation and development of a healthy, fulfilling relationship with the person you love.
I'm skilled in attachment styles, Imago Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, PREPARE/ENRICH, & EMDR, which I implement with a balanced, dynamic, Christian approach.
Are you searching for relationship satisfaction? Has dating been difficult for you? Do you feel unable to experience a mutually loving bond with someone who wants the same things as you do? As an attachment therapist, I love helping people achieve relational fulfillment. Intimacy is challenging, yet rewarding, when you have healthy and secure attachments with others. Whether you're single, dating, or newly married, I'd love to work with you! I can help you understand your attachment style, and how that plays a key role in the formation and development of a healthy, fulfilling relationship with the person you love.
(336) 443-9464 View (336) 443-9464
Photo of Karen DuBose, MSN, RN, CS
Karen DuBose
MSN, RN, CS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I am a Certified Imago couples therapist for 25 years (Based on the book "Getting the Love You Want" by Harville Hendrix).
We are meant to be whole and well, with the ability to recover and heal. I help women and men with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I listen, then share information and tools that will help with their specific needs. My clients suffering with anxiety will be taught skills to become more grounded and self assured. My clients experiencing depression are given hope and tools. Couples in crisis or wanting a better relationship can thrive instead of just survive in the model I use. As a RN, I am specifically trained in how the body responds to stress, trauma, and change.
I am a Certified Imago couples therapist for 25 years (Based on the book "Getting the Love You Want" by Harville Hendrix).
We are meant to be whole and well, with the ability to recover and heal. I help women and men with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I listen, then share information and tools that will help with their specific needs. My clients suffering with anxiety will be taught skills to become more grounded and self assured. My clients experiencing depression are given hope and tools. Couples in crisis or wanting a better relationship can thrive instead of just survive in the model I use. As a RN, I am specifically trained in how the body responds to stress, trauma, and change.
(704) 870-4896 View (704) 870-4896
Photo of Judith S Barnett, PhD, Psychologist
Judith S Barnett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I use many approaches including Imago Relationship Therapy, relationship coaching and other approaches that clients might feel comfortable with.
I have been working successfully with couples and individuals for 20+ years on a variety of topics including depression, relationship issues, and specializing in the areas of communication, extramarital affairs, online infidelity, couples conflict resolution, and divorce prevention. I am very client-centered and value teaming with my clients to work effectively at their comfort level, staying mindful of their wishes while using my clinical skills and modalities.
I use many approaches including Imago Relationship Therapy, relationship coaching and other approaches that clients might feel comfortable with.
I have been working successfully with couples and individuals for 20+ years on a variety of topics including depression, relationship issues, and specializing in the areas of communication, extramarital affairs, online infidelity, couples conflict resolution, and divorce prevention. I am very client-centered and value teaming with my clients to work effectively at their comfort level, staying mindful of their wishes while using my clinical skills and modalities.
(252) 392-0707 View (252) 392-0707
Photo of Deona Frierson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deona Frierson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208
While serving individuals, couples and groups (women) I integrate Imago Therapy and complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to whom I am working with.
Are you looking to work through challenges in your relationship? Would you like to enhance your relationship, prepare for marriage or prevent divorce? The cycle in marriage and relationships can cause us to lose hope and believe that being truly happy and fulfilled may not exist. This is not true. I am here to journey with you and your spouse/fiancé to understand where you are in the relationship cycle and what could potentially be preventing you from experiencing joy, peace, connection and unconditional love.
While serving individuals, couples and groups (women) I integrate Imago Therapy and complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to whom I am working with.
Are you looking to work through challenges in your relationship? Would you like to enhance your relationship, prepare for marriage or prevent divorce? The cycle in marriage and relationships can cause us to lose hope and believe that being truly happy and fulfilled may not exist. This is not true. I am here to journey with you and your spouse/fiancé to understand where you are in the relationship cycle and what could potentially be preventing you from experiencing joy, peace, connection and unconditional love.
(704) 908-0304 View (704) 908-0304
Photo of Elizabeth C Hutcheson, LCSW, ACSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth C Hutcheson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I work with couples using Imago Relationship Therapy.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
I work with couples using Imago Relationship Therapy.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
(704) 216-4064 View (704) 216-4064
Photo of Carolyn R Craft, PsyD, MDiv, Counselor
Carolyn R Craft
Counselor, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I also incorporate Psychoanalytic Theory, Compassionate Nonviolent Communication, Heart-Math Theory, Imago Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, EMDR, and where requested, non-religious spiritual counseling, and more.
When your thoughts or actions do not match your feelings, or you find that certain relationships are a problem, it could be time to explore what hidden patterns might be impacting your life. Because you are always in relationship to those in your world, whether family, work, or with a significant other; it is important to find ways to calm overwhelming emotions, overcome negative feelings, develop effective communication skills and discover the real issues in your life. In a non-invasive therapy environment, together we will build permanent resources to support you in being who you truly want to be.
I also incorporate Psychoanalytic Theory, Compassionate Nonviolent Communication, Heart-Math Theory, Imago Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, EMDR, and where requested, non-religious spiritual counseling, and more.
When your thoughts or actions do not match your feelings, or you find that certain relationships are a problem, it could be time to explore what hidden patterns might be impacting your life. Because you are always in relationship to those in your world, whether family, work, or with a significant other; it is important to find ways to calm overwhelming emotions, overcome negative feelings, develop effective communication skills and discover the real issues in your life. In a non-invasive therapy environment, together we will build permanent resources to support you in being who you truly want to be.
(919) 429-7932 View (919) 429-7932
Photo of Valerie Giberman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Giberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
My aspiration is to attract the couples that I can help the most to my practice of Imago Relationship Therapy. These may be couples who are in a basically sound relationship that they would like to deepen and invigorate, couples who are stuck in unfulfilling patterns that they would like to transform, and couples who are wondering whether it is too late to recover the feelings of closeness and vitality that they once had. What all of these couples share is a mutual willingness and perseverance to do the work required, and to put in the time needed, to discover the full potential in their relationships.
My aspiration is to attract the couples that I can help the most to my practice of Imago Relationship Therapy. These may be couples who are in a basically sound relationship that they would like to deepen and invigorate, couples who are stuck in unfulfilling patterns that they would like to transform, and couples who are wondering whether it is too late to recover the feelings of closeness and vitality that they once had. What all of these couples share is a mutual willingness and perseverance to do the work required, and to put in the time needed, to discover the full potential in their relationships.
(828) 368-9910 View (828) 368-9910
Photo of undefined - Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
(910) 378-3685 View (910) 378-3685
Photo of Charlotte Hanks, LCMHC
Charlotte Hanks
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My passion in this work comes from guiding individuals toward life goals, healing, growth, and discovery within. I combine various modalities tailored to address blockages and increase momentum in your life. Perhaps you are not yet on your own timeline or feel like you are living someone else's life.
My passion in this work comes from guiding individuals toward life goals, healing, growth, and discovery within. I combine various modalities tailored to address blockages and increase momentum in your life. Perhaps you are not yet on your own timeline or feel like you are living someone else's life.
(828) 332-5590 View (828) 332-5590
Photo of Whitney Jennings, MS, LCMHC
Whitney Jennings
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
I offer Intensive Psychotherapy services (or Intensives) for those who desire a deeper therapeutic experience. Intensives are structured in four-hour blocks and can range from 4 hours to 2 days, based on the needs and requests of the client.
I offer Intensive Psychotherapy services (or Intensives) for those who desire a deeper therapeutic experience. Intensives are structured in four-hour blocks and can range from 4 hours to 2 days, based on the needs and requests of the client.
(980) 270-1501 View (980) 270-1501

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Imago Therapists

How does Imago therapy work?

Imago relationship therapy is a form of couples counseling meant to help partners address conflict, communication problems, and related issues. Imago sessions typically involve couples sitting facing each other and participating in guided conversations. Therapy will also involve exercises such as re-imagining one’s partner as a wounded child; re-romanticizing a relationship through appreciation, surprises, and even gift-giving and restructuring frustrations by transforming complaints into requests. The ultimate goal is to re-envision the relationship as a source of safety and happiness.

What is the Imago method?

A core technique of Imago therapy is the Imago dialogue, in which partners learn to avoid hurtful statements and establish ways to interact based on each having equal space and power. In the dialogue, partners take turns as the “sender,” who shares their thoughts, and the “receiver.” The receiver is asked to “mirror,” or paraphrase, what their partner has said, without response or rebuttal, and then validate their statements, acknowledging understanding even if they do not personally agree with it. Finally, the receiver displays empathy by stating what they imagine the other is feeling, and showing appreciation for it.

How long does Imago therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for Imago therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core techniques of Imago coaching, some couples quickly make progress, but most should expect sessions to extend for months, encompassing at least 12 to 20 sessions, along with extensive “homework” from their therapist.

Does Imago therapy work?

There is limited empirical evidence to support the benefits of Imago therapy, but some smaller studies suggest that it does help couples, at least in the short-term. A 2017 study found that marital satisfaction increased significantly after couples completed 12 sessions of Imago therapy, and remained higher for some time after that, but did not always result in “complete recovery.” Other studies found greater empathy and fewer feelings of relationship burnout in couples after therapy. Some research suggests that Imago therapy can aid individuals as well as couples; people with ADHD in particular may benefit from the development of communication, self-control, and listening skills that form the basis of the technique.