Imago Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Conscientious Coupling: Center for Relationships, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Conscientious Coupling: Center for Relationships
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CIRT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
I am formally trained in Imago Relationship Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and use and eclectic/client-centered approach to therapy.
I understand the unique healing path necessary to overcome racial, gender, and sexuality-based oppression because of my own personal and professional experiences navigating these challenge. I know how rewarding it is to invest in your personal growth through therapy that offers a space to be nurtured and challenged. I look forward to getting to know you and finding the right balance to explore what’s possible in your life right now. I love working with individuals, couples and families to help them heal past traumas, become more authentic, and maintain better relationships with the self and others.
I am formally trained in Imago Relationship Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and use and eclectic/client-centered approach to therapy.
I understand the unique healing path necessary to overcome racial, gender, and sexuality-based oppression because of my own personal and professional experiences navigating these challenge. I know how rewarding it is to invest in your personal growth through therapy that offers a space to be nurtured and challenged. I look forward to getting to know you and finding the right balance to explore what’s possible in your life right now. I love working with individuals, couples and families to help them heal past traumas, become more authentic, and maintain better relationships with the self and others.
(888) 410-9396 View (888) 410-9396
Photo of Natalie Danielle Baker, LPC Intern in Washington, DC
Natalie Danielle Baker
LPC Intern, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20012
I am obtaining certification in Imago therapy, a couple's focused approach.
My ideal client(s) are those struggling with both trauma and relationships. Trauma can deeply impact how we relate to others, whether it be experiences from childhood that have persisted in creating struggles over the life course, or impactful instances in adulthood a person still struggles with. I am especially interested in people who struggle with attachment issues in relationships. The ideal client is one who is receptive to change, can take ownership of their life, and has the capacity for self-reflection. They would be interested in creating a more fulfilling life for them, based on the meanings the create in their own lives.
I am obtaining certification in Imago therapy, a couple's focused approach.
My ideal client(s) are those struggling with both trauma and relationships. Trauma can deeply impact how we relate to others, whether it be experiences from childhood that have persisted in creating struggles over the life course, or impactful instances in adulthood a person still struggles with. I am especially interested in people who struggle with attachment issues in relationships. The ideal client is one who is receptive to change, can take ownership of their life, and has the capacity for self-reflection. They would be interested in creating a more fulfilling life for them, based on the meanings the create in their own lives.
(202) 932-0689 View (202) 932-0689
Photo of Morgan Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Morgan Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients oftentimes say they struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we explore sources of symptoms with curiosity and build on your strengths to move toward feeling more grounded, presence, and connected.
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients oftentimes say they struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we explore sources of symptoms with curiosity and build on your strengths to move toward feeling more grounded, presence, and connected.
(667) 213-5474 View (667) 213-5474
Photo of Carolyn Bell, Counselor in Washington, DC
Carolyn Bell
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
My approach to couples therapy is based on EFT, Imago and Gottman Method Therapy.
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I collaborate with couples and individuals to increase your inner awareness of self to share with others. I help clients process life-changing events including job growth and relocation, loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses, and adoption. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I'm licensed in DC/MD/VA. My diverse background includes working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street and Main Street.
My approach to couples therapy is based on EFT, Imago and Gottman Method Therapy.
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I collaborate with couples and individuals to increase your inner awareness of self to share with others. I help clients process life-changing events including job growth and relocation, loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses, and adoption. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I'm licensed in DC/MD/VA. My diverse background includes working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street and Main Street.
(202) 262-9922 View (202) 262-9922
Photo of Ron Del Moro, Counselor in Washington, DC
Ron Del Moro
Counselor, PhD, EdS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
My couples and marriage therapy approach is guided by the works of John Gottman and the IMAGO Relationship principles.
My objectives in therapy are safety and growth. We will work together to discover what is needed to create the life and relationships you want. Together, we discuss what is needed for you to thrive (and what gets in the way). I am honest and direct in my work. I am a highly empathetic, interactive, personal, and dynamic therapist who can equally support and challenge when needed. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with relationship issues, connections (with self and others), anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, communication, impostor syndrome, and mindfulness.
My couples and marriage therapy approach is guided by the works of John Gottman and the IMAGO Relationship principles.
My objectives in therapy are safety and growth. We will work together to discover what is needed to create the life and relationships you want. Together, we discuss what is needed for you to thrive (and what gets in the way). I am honest and direct in my work. I am a highly empathetic, interactive, personal, and dynamic therapist who can equally support and challenge when needed. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with relationship issues, connections (with self and others), anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, communication, impostor syndrome, and mindfulness.
(202) 729-9286 View (202) 729-9286
Photo of Gwen Enfield Pearl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gwen Enfield Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
(202) 618-9869 View (202) 618-9869
Photo of Carl D Siegel, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Carl D Siegel
Psychologist, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I've been working with stressed out, overworked, anxious and depressed Washingtonians for over 30 years and call me crazy but I still love the work. It's such a privilege to work with an amazing diversity of smart interesting people! While I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic modalities I've learned the most from my clients. About half of my caseload is working with couples primarily using the Imago relationship therapy approach. The rest of my client load is working with individual adults and relationship groups for men. Men really flourish in these relationship groups.
I've been working with stressed out, overworked, anxious and depressed Washingtonians for over 30 years and call me crazy but I still love the work. It's such a privilege to work with an amazing diversity of smart interesting people! While I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic modalities I've learned the most from my clients. About half of my caseload is working with couples primarily using the Imago relationship therapy approach. The rest of my client load is working with individual adults and relationship groups for men. Men really flourish in these relationship groups.
(202) 836-6168 View (202) 836-6168
Photo of Stacy Notaras Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Stacy Notaras Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I am passionate about helping people facing relationship struggles that manifest as anxiety, depression, and difficulty with intimacy. My experience and training (EFT: Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, Imago, PACT) taught me that most emotional challenges are tied to how we function in our personal relationships. I've been told that my real strength is helping people feel safe and reflective enough to recognize, think through, and either accept or change the way they approach the relationships that matter most. I enjoy a collaborative with my clients and couples, working together to make meaningful changes.
I am passionate about helping people facing relationship struggles that manifest as anxiety, depression, and difficulty with intimacy. My experience and training (EFT: Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, Imago, PACT) taught me that most emotional challenges are tied to how we function in our personal relationships. I've been told that my real strength is helping people feel safe and reflective enough to recognize, think through, and either accept or change the way they approach the relationships that matter most. I enjoy a collaborative with my clients and couples, working together to make meaningful changes.
(202) 760-2121 View (202) 760-2121
Photo of Madeleine Lawrence, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Madeleine Lawrence
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I am a Masters-level counselor-in-training through Northwestern University currently offering counseling services at The Imago Center of Washington, DC. I am accepting clients with sliding scale pricing/low fee. Together, we can work on areas such as life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem regulation, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. Using an integrative approach, I hope to work with young adults and couples in exploring areas such as sexual orientation, healthy relationship development, and positive sexuality as well as anxiety regulation and adjustment strategies.
I am a Masters-level counselor-in-training through Northwestern University currently offering counseling services at The Imago Center of Washington, DC. I am accepting clients with sliding scale pricing/low fee. Together, we can work on areas such as life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem regulation, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. Using an integrative approach, I hope to work with young adults and couples in exploring areas such as sexual orientation, healthy relationship development, and positive sexuality as well as anxiety regulation and adjustment strategies.
(202) 930-8979 View (202) 930-8979
Photo of Michelle Cotter Richards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Michelle Cotter Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LICSW, LCSW, PCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My approach is rooted in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Imago Relationship Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I love helping lawyers and other stressed out and exhausted human beings heal, grow, and thrive by reconnecting to themselves and the people they love. As a former BigLaw and in-house lawyer, I know how the overwhelming stress and demands of our profession can take a toll on both us and our relationships. I work with individuals and couples to tame that stress and build lives and relationships full of meaning, peace, and joy.
My approach is rooted in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Imago Relationship Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I love helping lawyers and other stressed out and exhausted human beings heal, grow, and thrive by reconnecting to themselves and the people they love. As a former BigLaw and in-house lawyer, I know how the overwhelming stress and demands of our profession can take a toll on both us and our relationships. I work with individuals and couples to tame that stress and build lives and relationships full of meaning, peace, and joy.
(202) 796-5607 View (202) 796-5607
Photo of Ellen F Heyman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ellen F Heyman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I am currently adding certification as an Imago Therapist.
I place great importance on creating a non-judgmental atmosphere where the person that I am seeing can talk comfortably about their difficulties without fear of stigma or criticism. My approach is one of discovering the links between past and present relationship patterns, and using these insights to foster change and growth. After over thirty years in the field, I believe that I have developed the ability to understand a situation quickly, and to communicate recommendations in an empathic and sensitive manner. I am able to work in brief psychotherapy, and wish to provide genuine help as quickly as possible.
I am currently adding certification as an Imago Therapist.
I place great importance on creating a non-judgmental atmosphere where the person that I am seeing can talk comfortably about their difficulties without fear of stigma or criticism. My approach is one of discovering the links between past and present relationship patterns, and using these insights to foster change and growth. After over thirty years in the field, I believe that I have developed the ability to understand a situation quickly, and to communicate recommendations in an empathic and sensitive manner. I am able to work in brief psychotherapy, and wish to provide genuine help as quickly as possible.
(703) 468-8907 View (703) 468-8907
Photo of Paul E Ruffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Paul E Ruffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
As an Advanced Certified Imago Therapist, I help couples create connection and intimacy by using their conflicts to promote understanding, celebrate differences, and develop real partnership.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on relationship building, conflict and anger management, and coping with grief and loss. I help couples create a safe and nurturing bond that allows them to become close again and heal. No matter the issue that brings a couple, individual, or family into my office, they will all be learning a new way to look at relationship and be introduced to a toolkit of skills essential to staying in conversation and connection.
As an Advanced Certified Imago Therapist, I help couples create connection and intimacy by using their conflicts to promote understanding, celebrate differences, and develop real partnership.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on relationship building, conflict and anger management, and coping with grief and loss. I help couples create a safe and nurturing bond that allows them to become close again and heal. No matter the issue that brings a couple, individual, or family into my office, they will all be learning a new way to look at relationship and be introduced to a toolkit of skills essential to staying in conversation and connection.
(202) 759-2307 View (202) 759-2307
Photo of Dr. Kerley Perminio Most, Pastoral Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Kerley Perminio Most
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
As a certified Imago therapist, It will be my honor to be a witness to your journey as you transform the challenges in your life into strength and resilience.
Hello, it is so good to connect with you! Welcome to my practice! You may be ready to explore your life in an intentional environment. To engage in a space where you can fully embrace yourself, your journey, and your gifts. I believe in your ability to process, validate, and overcome life's unexpected events, such as grief, breakups, career or academic setbacks, relationship disconnection, and loneliness. Let's work together to uncover your inner strength and build a foundation for your well-being.
As a certified Imago therapist, It will be my honor to be a witness to your journey as you transform the challenges in your life into strength and resilience.
Hello, it is so good to connect with you! Welcome to my practice! You may be ready to explore your life in an intentional environment. To engage in a space where you can fully embrace yourself, your journey, and your gifts. I believe in your ability to process, validate, and overcome life's unexpected events, such as grief, breakups, career or academic setbacks, relationship disconnection, and loneliness. Let's work together to uncover your inner strength and build a foundation for your well-being.
(202) 733-6475 View (202) 733-6475
Photo of Caitlin Wick, Counselor in Washington, DC
Caitlin Wick
Counselor, MSEd, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I work with couples using the uniquely effective Imago modality, aiming to create safety and build empathy while offering new tools for connection.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples and people in all types of relationships on their personal and relational journeys, as they explore themselves and their experiences, gain insight into patterns and dynamics, and ultimately, as they connect to what is meaningful in their lives. I approach my clients with genuineness, creativity, and a sense of collaboration, and I believe it is a privilege to sit with people and hold their stories.
I work with couples using the uniquely effective Imago modality, aiming to create safety and build empathy while offering new tools for connection.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples and people in all types of relationships on their personal and relational journeys, as they explore themselves and their experiences, gain insight into patterns and dynamics, and ultimately, as they connect to what is meaningful in their lives. I approach my clients with genuineness, creativity, and a sense of collaboration, and I believe it is a privilege to sit with people and hold their stories.
(202) 875-7949 View (202) 875-7949
Photo of Deborah J Fox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Deborah J Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
My style of relationship therapy, rooted in Imago therapy, is particularly effective in helping couples develop safe and more loving relationships, in which pain and conflict are turned into an opportunity for growth and greater closeness.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me. We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
My style of relationship therapy, rooted in Imago therapy, is particularly effective in helping couples develop safe and more loving relationships, in which pain and conflict are turned into an opportunity for growth and greater closeness.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me. We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
(202) 656-7984 View (202) 656-7984
Photo of Lizzie Liu, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Lizzie Liu
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd(s), LCPC, NCC, CSTIP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence and strength-based therapeutic approaches including Imago and Polyvagal Theory.
Are you tired of fighting with your partner constantly without finding a path to move forward? Are you from a culture that is different from your partner's culture? Do you feel like the intimacy and passion have escaped your relationship? Your relationship doesn't have to suffer through those conflicts in the dark, nor does it have to be a battleground for your differences; it can be a rich soil for meeting your unmet needs. Therapy is the right place for you and your partner to explore complex emotions. If you are not sure what you are experiencing, therapy also allows you to get closer to the unknown.
I utilize evidence and strength-based therapeutic approaches including Imago and Polyvagal Theory.
Are you tired of fighting with your partner constantly without finding a path to move forward? Are you from a culture that is different from your partner's culture? Do you feel like the intimacy and passion have escaped your relationship? Your relationship doesn't have to suffer through those conflicts in the dark, nor does it have to be a battleground for your differences; it can be a rich soil for meeting your unmet needs. Therapy is the right place for you and your partner to explore complex emotions. If you are not sure what you are experiencing, therapy also allows you to get closer to the unknown.
(240) 209-9592 View (240) 209-9592
Photo of Gail Guttman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gail Guttman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I am a Certified Imago Relationship & Singles Therapist, Community Educator, and Consultant, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor (by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists).
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship & Singles Therapist, Community Educator, and Consultant, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor (by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists).
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
(301) 304-4781 View (301) 304-4781
Photo of Morgan Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Morgan Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, and yoga; my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients often struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore sources of trauma and healing with curiosity.
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, and yoga; my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients often struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore sources of trauma and healing with curiosity.
(609) 997-6138 View (609) 997-6138
Photo of Nancy Hyatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nancy Hyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
(202) 796-6091 View (202) 796-6091
Photo of Tory Joseph, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Tory Joseph
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I offer a warm, accepting approach to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a workshop presenter, parent educator and counselor, I have experienced positive results with hundreds of families. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, I work with couples on improving relationships. Teaching positive parenting techniques, I help parents of both young children and teens to solve problems, and create a healthy, successful family life.
I offer a warm, accepting approach to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a workshop presenter, parent educator and counselor, I have experienced positive results with hundreds of families. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, I work with couples on improving relationships. Teaching positive parenting techniques, I help parents of both young children and teens to solve problems, and create a healthy, successful family life.
(301) 205-5368 View (301) 205-5368

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.