Imago Therapists in Aliso Viejo, CA

Photo of Jill Boultinghouse, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Boultinghouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I truly understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. Many feel uncomfortable & anxious when seeking help from a counselor about such sensitive & personal issues. It takes courage and faith to reach out. I believe together we will find real solutions to your struggles.
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I truly understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. Many feel uncomfortable & anxious when seeking help from a counselor about such sensitive & personal issues. It takes courage and faith to reach out. I believe together we will find real solutions to your struggles.
(949) 258-9739 View (949) 258-9739
Photo of Sheryl Aronson, MFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheryl Aronson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
My practice focus is on building, healing and developing strong personal and intimate relationships - which are truly the cornerstone of psychological, physical, and spiritual health. My specialty is working with couples and giving them the skills necessary to maintain a successful relationship. I also have a strong interest in women's issues; especially in the development of improved SELF-ESTEEM though all of their transitions in life. While I am especially interested in helping women, I also have a bulk of experience in helping men through their relationship and proffessional difficulties. I offer unique interactive communication that promotes positive change.
My practice focus is on building, healing and developing strong personal and intimate relationships - which are truly the cornerstone of psychological, physical, and spiritual health. My specialty is working with couples and giving them the skills necessary to maintain a successful relationship. I also have a strong interest in women's issues; especially in the development of improved SELF-ESTEEM though all of their transitions in life. While I am especially interested in helping women, I also have a bulk of experience in helping men through their relationship and proffessional difficulties. I offer unique interactive communication that promotes positive change.
(949) 390-9039 View (949) 390-9039
Photo of Valeri Liebig, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valeri Liebig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Are you going through a tough time? Do you feel stuck? Reaching out for help from a therapist can feel overwhelming. I commend you for taking this step. The relationship between therapist and client is one of trust which is vital to the healing process. I will provide a warm, welcoming, come as you are environment in which you and I can explore what is bringing you to therapy. After a detailed assessment, we will collaborate on a treatment plan that suits your needs and goals in order to get you on the path to achieving healing and wellness.
Are you going through a tough time? Do you feel stuck? Reaching out for help from a therapist can feel overwhelming. I commend you for taking this step. The relationship between therapist and client is one of trust which is vital to the healing process. I will provide a warm, welcoming, come as you are environment in which you and I can explore what is bringing you to therapy. After a detailed assessment, we will collaborate on a treatment plan that suits your needs and goals in order to get you on the path to achieving healing and wellness.
(949) 392-6406 View (949) 392-6406
Photo of Michelle Shahbazyan, MA MFT, MS
Michelle Shahbazyan
MA MFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92653
I am here to help you redefine personal growth and well-being. My unique approach to Life Coaching, Couples and Marriage Coaching, and Executive Coaching offers you a refreshing departure from traditional therapy. I understand that every individual's journey is unique, and we honor that with personalized sessions tailored to your needs. In your very first session, I will give you all the time you need to delve into your challenges and aspirations.
I am here to help you redefine personal growth and well-being. My unique approach to Life Coaching, Couples and Marriage Coaching, and Executive Coaching offers you a refreshing departure from traditional therapy. I understand that every individual's journey is unique, and we honor that with personalized sessions tailored to your needs. In your very first session, I will give you all the time you need to delve into your challenges and aspirations.
(818) 641-6127 View (818) 641-6127
Photo of Holly Pittaway, MS, AMFT, EMDR, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Holly Pittaway
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, EMDR, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Whether you’re going through life transitions; or just feeling stuck and not sure why, I enjoy sitting with and listening to the inner workings of your thoughts while trying to understand what is either holding you back or keeping you from moving forward and healing. I get to sit alongside clients who are navigating life concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, complex trauma, relational and identity concerns and more.
Whether you’re going through life transitions; or just feeling stuck and not sure why, I enjoy sitting with and listening to the inner workings of your thoughts while trying to understand what is either holding you back or keeping you from moving forward and healing. I get to sit alongside clients who are navigating life concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, complex trauma, relational and identity concerns and more.
(949) 894-4942 View (949) 894-4942

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92657
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(925) 320-0698 View (925) 320-0698
Photo of Maya Attia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maya Attia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618  (Online Only)
My approach is relational and experiential, blending modalities like Imago, emotion-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Relationships are like a dance. You may be swaying to an old choreography, stepping on each other’s toes, or missing the love you had when you started moving together. You might be fighting constantly, carrying past wounds, or floundering after an affair. Maybe you are experiencing sex issues, money problems, or overwhelming emotions that impact your ability to connect and meet your needs. You long for a fulfilling bond where you are both seen and supported. You want to work as a team to communicate effectively, ease conflict, and rebuild. And you want to feel better in your own skin so you can show up for yourself and one another.
My approach is relational and experiential, blending modalities like Imago, emotion-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Relationships are like a dance. You may be swaying to an old choreography, stepping on each other’s toes, or missing the love you had when you started moving together. You might be fighting constantly, carrying past wounds, or floundering after an affair. Maybe you are experiencing sex issues, money problems, or overwhelming emotions that impact your ability to connect and meet your needs. You long for a fulfilling bond where you are both seen and supported. You want to work as a team to communicate effectively, ease conflict, and rebuild. And you want to feel better in your own skin so you can show up for yourself and one another.
(949) 806-5592 View (949) 806-5592
Photo of Michelle Tharp Grozinger, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Michelle Tharp Grozinger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
In addition, I am trained in Imago Therapy, Gottman Couples' Therapy, and EMDR.
What's going on in your life? What are your goals? Let's figure out what you want and how to get it. You can become the person you want to be!
In addition, I am trained in Imago Therapy, Gottman Couples' Therapy, and EMDR.
What's going on in your life? What are your goals? Let's figure out what you want and how to get it. You can become the person you want to be!
(949) 270-3387 View (949) 270-3387
Photo of Patricia Anita Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Anita Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Through cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy for children and adolescents, Imago therapy for interpersonal relationships, clients can achieve their goals.
During this exceptionally stressful time, anxiety, depression, and/or general life issues impact daily life. A need to lower anxiety, elevate mood, and find ways to cope with the unknown is important for all ages.
Through cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy for children and adolescents, Imago therapy for interpersonal relationships, clients can achieve their goals.
During this exceptionally stressful time, anxiety, depression, and/or general life issues impact daily life. A need to lower anxiety, elevate mood, and find ways to cope with the unknown is important for all ages.
(949) 649-6179 View (949) 649-6179
Photo of Sobia Saleem Psychotherapist, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sobia Saleem Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, Imago, Attachment, and Gottman therapy to empower you.
Accepting New Clients! Are you a trans, non-binary, or poly person looking for a therapist who understands & reflects your identity? Are you a newly diagnosed neurodivergent or neuroqueer adult? Are you chronically ill and tired of educating your therapists about your medical conditions? Are you a queer Muslim seeking a therapist who's familiar with both your background & queerness? If so, I want to work with you on your unique challenges, like navigating your transition, exploring sexual dynamics with partner(s), dealing with a new diagnosis, and/or needing an HRT or GAS (surgery) letter. Therapy should cater to you and your needs.
I use EMDR, Imago, Attachment, and Gottman therapy to empower you.
Accepting New Clients! Are you a trans, non-binary, or poly person looking for a therapist who understands & reflects your identity? Are you a newly diagnosed neurodivergent or neuroqueer adult? Are you chronically ill and tired of educating your therapists about your medical conditions? Are you a queer Muslim seeking a therapist who's familiar with both your background & queerness? If so, I want to work with you on your unique challenges, like navigating your transition, exploring sexual dynamics with partner(s), dealing with a new diagnosis, and/or needing an HRT or GAS (surgery) letter. Therapy should cater to you and your needs.
(657) 286-7337 View (657) 286-7337
Photo of Marc Bruderer, MS, MBA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marc Bruderer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MBA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
For couples, I use Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman method, and Imago.
I believe that emotional insights are the cornerstone of therapeutic growth. Drawing from life experience, I offer empathy and understanding to individuals navigating issues like anxiety, depression, family dysfunction, relationship conflicts, past trauma, grief, loneliness, life crises, shame, self-esteem issues, aging, body image concerns, parenting problems, and divorce. My clients seek to uncover emotional insights, foster healthier relationships, and achieve personal growth. They desire a therapist who can empathize and understand their experiences. I help navigate my clients' journey toward health, happiness, and healing.
For couples, I use Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman method, and Imago.
I believe that emotional insights are the cornerstone of therapeutic growth. Drawing from life experience, I offer empathy and understanding to individuals navigating issues like anxiety, depression, family dysfunction, relationship conflicts, past trauma, grief, loneliness, life crises, shame, self-esteem issues, aging, body image concerns, parenting problems, and divorce. My clients seek to uncover emotional insights, foster healthier relationships, and achieve personal growth. They desire a therapist who can empathize and understand their experiences. I help navigate my clients' journey toward health, happiness, and healing.
(949) 298-2963 View (949) 298-2963
Photo of Nancy Donkin Young, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy Donkin Young
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Also have received training in Imago and Emotion-focused approaches.
For over 30 years, I've specialized in therapy with individuals, couples, groups, & for 20 years, I was an Adjunct Professor, at Chapman University, teaching: Intro to Psychology, Interpersonal Attraction & Romantic Love, Human Sexuality, Sexual Disorders & Treatment, Chemical Dependency Treatment, & other grad/undergrad psychology classes. My academic research interests: romantic love--the differences between intense/compelling and secure/comfortable love experiences & the use of videotaped therapy in chemical dependency treatment. I use a holistic/transpersonal approach. I'm a Voice Dialogue teacher/trainer/facilitator,Certified in EMDR & Certified Gottman Couple's Therapist, Level I & II Teacher, & ASL Workshop Leader.
Also have received training in Imago and Emotion-focused approaches.
For over 30 years, I've specialized in therapy with individuals, couples, groups, & for 20 years, I was an Adjunct Professor, at Chapman University, teaching: Intro to Psychology, Interpersonal Attraction & Romantic Love, Human Sexuality, Sexual Disorders & Treatment, Chemical Dependency Treatment, & other grad/undergrad psychology classes. My academic research interests: romantic love--the differences between intense/compelling and secure/comfortable love experiences & the use of videotaped therapy in chemical dependency treatment. I use a holistic/transpersonal approach. I'm a Voice Dialogue teacher/trainer/facilitator,Certified in EMDR & Certified Gottman Couple's Therapist, Level I & II Teacher, & ASL Workshop Leader.
(714) 432-9856 View (714) 432-9856
Photo of Christyn Nelson Barry, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christyn Nelson Barry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to improve their coping skills, reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression,adjust to life changes,and strengthen their close relationships.I see individual adults for life coaching about personal and career goals.I have a great deal of experience helping teens and their families navigate tough stages. I treat couples with emotionally-focused couples counseling to help them get closer and resolve differences more effectively.People who are coping with losses such as a death,divorce,or infertility,or facing chronic or serious illness, are also my particular interest.
I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to improve their coping skills, reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression,adjust to life changes,and strengthen their close relationships.I see individual adults for life coaching about personal and career goals.I have a great deal of experience helping teens and their families navigate tough stages. I treat couples with emotionally-focused couples counseling to help them get closer and resolve differences more effectively.People who are coping with losses such as a death,divorce,or infertility,or facing chronic or serious illness, are also my particular interest.
(949) 484-4160 x2 View (949) 484-4160 x2
Photo of Lgbtq Therapist Brooklynn Kendall, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lgbtq Therapist Brooklynn Kendall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I have extensive training in work within the LGBTQ community, their allies, kink and polyamorous communities I have specialized my work with those who feel "othered." My past and current work involves questions surrounding relationships, sexuality and gender, couples working through whether to get married, stay together, navigating separation with families, and healing relationship wounds. I founded The Nest Counseling Center to provide opportunities for Associate Therapists to continue their education in providing therapy to the LGBTQ Community.
I have extensive training in work within the LGBTQ community, their allies, kink and polyamorous communities I have specialized my work with those who feel "othered." My past and current work involves questions surrounding relationships, sexuality and gender, couples working through whether to get married, stay together, navigating separation with families, and healing relationship wounds. I founded The Nest Counseling Center to provide opportunities for Associate Therapists to continue their education in providing therapy to the LGBTQ Community.
(657) 317-7870 View (657) 317-7870
Photo of George Rosch, PhD, LCSW, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
George Rosch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675  (Online Only)
During my 30+ years of clinical practice I find myself working particularly effective with important life transition stages, i.e. adolescents, young adult, mid-life, later-life. I view issues of loss, marriage, divorce, identity, vocation and aging as doorways to a deeper and more actualized life. Out of intensive study, practice, and my own life experiences, I meet the client at their own unique crossroad. Together we engage in a journey of symptom-relief, discovery and new possibilities. I am an active and engaging therapist...learning from hundreds of private practice clients & families & additional hundreds of agency participants.
During my 30+ years of clinical practice I find myself working particularly effective with important life transition stages, i.e. adolescents, young adult, mid-life, later-life. I view issues of loss, marriage, divorce, identity, vocation and aging as doorways to a deeper and more actualized life. Out of intensive study, practice, and my own life experiences, I meet the client at their own unique crossroad. Together we engage in a journey of symptom-relief, discovery and new possibilities. I am an active and engaging therapist...learning from hundreds of private practice clients & families & additional hundreds of agency participants.
(805) 254-4896 View (805) 254-4896
Photo of Jennifer H Tansey - Dr. Jennifer Tansey, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Tansey
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92690
**Virtual Therapy**&" In Office" In this unique time of uncertainty there are many moments of anxiety and uncertainty. Don't do it alone! If you are struggling please reach out & get the support you need to navigate this time. I've been helping others for 35+ years. I'm a Clinical Psychologist trained in many different modalities. My life experience combined with my training & education has equipped me to serve a variety of people. I work effectively with people challenged by traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, social fears, relationship problem or low self-esteem. I have a strong interest in the spiritual dimensions of growth.
**Virtual Therapy**&" In Office" In this unique time of uncertainty there are many moments of anxiety and uncertainty. Don't do it alone! If you are struggling please reach out & get the support you need to navigate this time. I've been helping others for 35+ years. I'm a Clinical Psychologist trained in many different modalities. My life experience combined with my training & education has equipped me to serve a variety of people. I work effectively with people challenged by traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, social fears, relationship problem or low self-esteem. I have a strong interest in the spiritual dimensions of growth.
(541) 658-3433 View (541) 658-3433
Photo of Alicia Guerrero, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alicia Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Whether you struggle with moderate/severe anxiety, depression, unbalanced relationships or boundaries, chronic pain/illness or burnout- I may be able to help! Many (but not all) of my clients are: women or non-binary folks between the ages of 16-60 & part of the LGBTQ+ community • Identify as BIPOC, Latinx, or multiracial • Work in highly stressful positions (including entrepreneurs) and struggle with chronic burnout • Have experienced significant traumas and/or abuse. My couples' therapy clients often love each other immensely, but struggle with healthy communication, trust, and/or intimacy issues.
Accepting new clients! Whether you struggle with moderate/severe anxiety, depression, unbalanced relationships or boundaries, chronic pain/illness or burnout- I may be able to help! Many (but not all) of my clients are: women or non-binary folks between the ages of 16-60 & part of the LGBTQ+ community • Identify as BIPOC, Latinx, or multiracial • Work in highly stressful positions (including entrepreneurs) and struggle with chronic burnout • Have experienced significant traumas and/or abuse. My couples' therapy clients often love each other immensely, but struggle with healthy communication, trust, and/or intimacy issues.
(657) 366-5433 View (657) 366-5433
Photo of Denise Bonner, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Bonner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Welcome my name is Denise Bonner, I am licensed therapist, working with individuals and couples for over 20 years. My purpose and intention is to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients within a framework of non judgement and complete acceptance. This enables my clients to feel safe and comfortable to reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings.
Welcome my name is Denise Bonner, I am licensed therapist, working with individuals and couples for over 20 years. My purpose and intention is to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients within a framework of non judgement and complete acceptance. This enables my clients to feel safe and comfortable to reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings.
(949) 682-3581 View (949) 682-3581
Photo of Elaine Quattro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elaine Quattro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Hello... I am Elaine Quattro, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I see myself as a change agent helping clients by empowering them to explore their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
Hello... I am Elaine Quattro, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I see myself as a change agent helping clients by empowering them to explore their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
(951) 338-5989 View (951) 338-5989
Photo of Leslie Rennick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Rennick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Are you feeling stuck? I can help. Raising a family, excelling at your work and maintaining healthy relationships can all be challenging. Sometimes those challenges can result in fulfillment and sometimes they can be so stressful as to make us feel anxious, depressed, sad, angry or uncertain. Therapy can provide perspective and offer new skills to promote positive change. I offer a supportive environment to assist you in working through your life and relationship challenges in order to create more satisfaction and joy in your life. See more details at leslierennick.com.
Are you feeling stuck? I can help. Raising a family, excelling at your work and maintaining healthy relationships can all be challenging. Sometimes those challenges can result in fulfillment and sometimes they can be so stressful as to make us feel anxious, depressed, sad, angry or uncertain. Therapy can provide perspective and offer new skills to promote positive change. I offer a supportive environment to assist you in working through your life and relationship challenges in order to create more satisfaction and joy in your life. See more details at leslierennick.com.
(949) 247-8145 View (949) 247-8145

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.