Imago Therapists in Huntington Beach, CA

Photo of Michelle Tharp Grozinger, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Michelle Tharp Grozinger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
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 Dawn Therese Dominguez - Windows of Hope Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Windows of Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92605
Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry techniques along with Imago dialogue practices helping clients create the life they have always hoped for in a safe environment.
Welcome! We offer individual, couples and family counseling in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life experiences in a nurturing and loving way, and assist your process offering compassionate communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult life situations. We specialize in couples counseling, grief counseling, blended family counseling, anger management counseling, substance abuse counseling, depression counseling, anxiety counseling, self improvement counseling & personal growth counseling. We offer a safe space for you to share and heal!
Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry techniques along with Imago dialogue practices helping clients create the life they have always hoped for in a safe environment.
Welcome! We offer individual, couples and family counseling in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life experiences in a nurturing and loving way, and assist your process offering compassionate communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult life situations. We specialize in couples counseling, grief counseling, blended family counseling, anger management counseling, substance abuse counseling, depression counseling, anxiety counseling, self improvement counseling & personal growth counseling. We offer a safe space for you to share and heal!
(310) 928-2319 View (310) 928-2319
Photo of Mary E Lama, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary E Lama
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Waitlist for new clients
We are all on our own journey in life, filled with experiences big and small that have shaped our present. At times we all have our own work to do to feel mentally healthy and balanced in our relationship with ourselves and others. Therapy is a courageous and powerful step for your journey, helping you grow and/or heal to reach the goals you desire. By meeting you where you are at emotionally/mentally we work for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, discover patterns in your life and learn skills for you to reach your goals.
We are all on our own journey in life, filled with experiences big and small that have shaped our present. At times we all have our own work to do to feel mentally healthy and balanced in our relationship with ourselves and others. Therapy is a courageous and powerful step for your journey, helping you grow and/or heal to reach the goals you desire. By meeting you where you are at emotionally/mentally we work for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, discover patterns in your life and learn skills for you to reach your goals.
(925) 275-5216 View (925) 275-5216
Photo of Brandon Wetzler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandon Wetzler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Is something missing or not right in your relationships, career or spiritual life? Is it keeping you from living fully in each moment? Are you now just reacting to life instead of creating life? If so it may comfort you to know that many people feel this way. Perhaps now you're at a crossroads and are ready to speak with a safe, experienced counselor. The good news is that there is hope when you reach out for help. The hope lies in the opportunity you give yourself to get better, and become more balanced and healthy.
Is something missing or not right in your relationships, career or spiritual life? Is it keeping you from living fully in each moment? Are you now just reacting to life instead of creating life? If so it may comfort you to know that many people feel this way. Perhaps now you're at a crossroads and are ready to speak with a safe, experienced counselor. The good news is that there is hope when you reach out for help. The hope lies in the opportunity you give yourself to get better, and become more balanced and healthy.
(714) 408-2394 View (714) 408-2394
Photo of Rosa Sicairos, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rosa Sicairos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
Hello, I am an LMFT and an LPCC. I have passionately served a diverse range of individuals living with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, Dissociation, and Gender Identity Exploration to name a few. Whether these are current or past issues you are looking to seek help with, I am so eager to help you! My education and experiences have provided me with the foundation to serve and address a wide range of backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses and therapeutic issues.
Hello, I am an LMFT and an LPCC. I have passionately served a diverse range of individuals living with Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Addictions, Dissociation, and Gender Identity Exploration to name a few. Whether these are current or past issues you are looking to seek help with, I am so eager to help you! My education and experiences have provided me with the foundation to serve and address a wide range of backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses and therapeutic issues.
(657) 837-3193 View (657) 837-3193
Photo of Christine Gonzalez, MA, LMFT, CDAAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CDAAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
News causing stress? Conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time. Online, phone, and office sessions. Fees are tax deductible donations. Take care of yourself, find ways to meet your social needs, and restore some peace and joy in your home and family. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief and answers you need. If you want to reduce stress and worry, survive AND thrive, and find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Other specialties: Trauma, Grief, Kids, Families.
News causing stress? Conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time. Online, phone, and office sessions. Fees are tax deductible donations. Take care of yourself, find ways to meet your social needs, and restore some peace and joy in your home and family. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief and answers you need. If you want to reduce stress and worry, survive AND thrive, and find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Other specialties: Trauma, Grief, Kids, Families.
(949) 537-2252 View (949) 537-2252
Photo of Sheryl L Curl, MA, MFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheryl L Curl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, RN
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
I enjoy treating individuals, couples, and families. Having had extensive training in the treatment of couples and years of experience in a correctional system, I am well versed in numerous issues of concern such as, various addictions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relational and family of origin issues. I have twenty years of experience as a clinician and also possess a Registered Nurse license with years of medical experience in the field of trauma and critical care. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, an evidenced based treatment for trauma) and also trained in Trauma Focused CBT.
I enjoy treating individuals, couples, and families. Having had extensive training in the treatment of couples and years of experience in a correctional system, I am well versed in numerous issues of concern such as, various addictions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relational and family of origin issues. I have twenty years of experience as a clinician and also possess a Registered Nurse license with years of medical experience in the field of trauma and critical care. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, an evidenced based treatment for trauma) and also trained in Trauma Focused CBT.
(714) 433-9859 View (714) 433-9859
Photo of Jessica Ripley, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Ripley
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
My goal is to help my clients break free from pain and embark on a journey towards personal growth. I know how it feels to be stuck in pain, and I know how amazing and life changing it feels to find a way out. I believe that this process is what builds beautiful, strong resilient people. My mission is to guide individuals like you along this path of self-discovery and resilience-building. I believe that this journey involves two key steps. First, we must process and heal from past pain. Then we can embark on an exploration of creativity, nature, spirituality, connection and pursuing your personal values and passions.
My goal is to help my clients break free from pain and embark on a journey towards personal growth. I know how it feels to be stuck in pain, and I know how amazing and life changing it feels to find a way out. I believe that this process is what builds beautiful, strong resilient people. My mission is to guide individuals like you along this path of self-discovery and resilience-building. I believe that this journey involves two key steps. First, we must process and heal from past pain. Then we can embark on an exploration of creativity, nature, spirituality, connection and pursuing your personal values and passions.
(562) 378-4629 View (562) 378-4629
Photo of Marilyn Tudor Bleak, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marilyn Tudor Bleak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
If you're struggling with your relationships and feel frustrated, tired, anxious or depressed; it may be due to sabotaging thoughts, emotional hijacking, or simply not knowing what to do. You may be suffering from losses, traumas or be stuck in a developmental stage or way of living that blocks the relationships you deeply desire and need. The good news is there is hope for you. Given care, truth, time and a skilled creative therapist to explore new ways of thinking, coping and communicating; you can grow into your full potential.
If you're struggling with your relationships and feel frustrated, tired, anxious or depressed; it may be due to sabotaging thoughts, emotional hijacking, or simply not knowing what to do. You may be suffering from losses, traumas or be stuck in a developmental stage or way of living that blocks the relationships you deeply desire and need. The good news is there is hope for you. Given care, truth, time and a skilled creative therapist to explore new ways of thinking, coping and communicating; you can grow into your full potential.
(714) 725-8997 View (714) 725-8997
Photo of Andrea Briget Gordon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Briget Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Are You Tired Of The Same Old Arguments Over & Over Again? Do You Feel Sometimes, That No Matter What You Do, It's Never Enough? Do You Feel Sometimes, That No Matter What You Say, It's Wrong? Do You Wonder Where The Fun In Your Relationship Went? Want it Back ? Let Me Help....
Are You Tired Of The Same Old Arguments Over & Over Again? Do You Feel Sometimes, That No Matter What You Do, It's Never Enough? Do You Feel Sometimes, That No Matter What You Say, It's Wrong? Do You Wonder Where The Fun In Your Relationship Went? Want it Back ? Let Me Help....
(562) 354-8907 View (562) 354-8907
Photo of Jim Moakley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim Moakley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
You deserve to feel happy, healthy, and loved! Your relationships can be the best part of your life, helping you to feel joy, appreciation, and fulfillment...or you can find yourself just going through the motions. In our stressful and demanding world, it is all too easy to disconnect from those who are most important to us; poor communication leads to a lack of understanding, and we become demanding, intolerant, and unforgiving of ourselves and of those who matter most. Instead of sharing quality time together, we spend our energy tearing each other down. Gaining awareness, and learning from the past instead of dwelling on it, are some of the first steps toward moving forward. I find nothing more satisfying than helping people to overcome their obstacles so that they can love and feel loved, accept and feel accepted, and realize that they are truly worthy of all that life has to offer. Since 2009, I've helped my clients become better versions of themselves; let's work together and start turning your possibilities into realities!
You deserve to feel happy, healthy, and loved! Your relationships can be the best part of your life, helping you to feel joy, appreciation, and fulfillment...or you can find yourself just going through the motions. In our stressful and demanding world, it is all too easy to disconnect from those who are most important to us; poor communication leads to a lack of understanding, and we become demanding, intolerant, and unforgiving of ourselves and of those who matter most. Instead of sharing quality time together, we spend our energy tearing each other down. Gaining awareness, and learning from the past instead of dwelling on it, are some of the first steps toward moving forward. I find nothing more satisfying than helping people to overcome their obstacles so that they can love and feel loved, accept and feel accepted, and realize that they are truly worthy of all that life has to offer. Since 2009, I've helped my clients become better versions of themselves; let's work together and start turning your possibilities into realities!
(657) 255-7895 View (657) 255-7895
Photo of Eve Elizabeth Lievonen - Dr. Eve Lievonen, PHD, LCSW, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Eve Lievonen, PHD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
My approach to therapy is straight forward and personable. I see symptoms or life problems as the mind's "wake-up call" signaling the need for change and growth. I enjoy working with people to help maximize their strengths and meet their goals. My thirty years of varied practice experience enable me to understand most problems and work expeditiously to help you solve them. I work together with you to help you understand your symptoms better and to make appropriate changes for symptom relief and personal growth.
My approach to therapy is straight forward and personable. I see symptoms or life problems as the mind's "wake-up call" signaling the need for change and growth. I enjoy working with people to help maximize their strengths and meet their goals. My thirty years of varied practice experience enable me to understand most problems and work expeditiously to help you solve them. I work together with you to help you understand your symptoms better and to make appropriate changes for symptom relief and personal growth.
(949) 436-0861 View (949) 436-0861
Photo of Kiandra Hebert, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Kiandra Hebert
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92605
Accepting new clients in person and via video. I offer a welcoming, supportive space for you to gain insights and practical skills to enhance your well-being. Deep-seated beliefs can often limit us and the stress of modern life can overwhelm our systems. I can help you create a personalized plan to feel differently about yourself, achieve your goals, and find more ease and calmness in your life. Our body can get into a state where it is dysregulated both physically and psychologically. We can learn to self-regulate and experience greater tranquility, joy, and happiness, while managing sadness, anger, and anxiety more effectively.
Accepting new clients in person and via video. I offer a welcoming, supportive space for you to gain insights and practical skills to enhance your well-being. Deep-seated beliefs can often limit us and the stress of modern life can overwhelm our systems. I can help you create a personalized plan to feel differently about yourself, achieve your goals, and find more ease and calmness in your life. Our body can get into a state where it is dysregulated both physically and psychologically. We can learn to self-regulate and experience greater tranquility, joy, and happiness, while managing sadness, anger, and anxiety more effectively.
(949) 264-5515 View (949) 264-5515

More Therapists Nearby

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 Amy Choi, PhD
Amy Choi
PhD
Verified Verified
Tustin, CA 92780
Choi will be informed by all of her trainings in psychodynamic therapy, Gestalt Therapy, AEDP, Internal Family System, Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR Brainspotting, Imago Relational Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Lifespan Integration, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, DBT.
I serve those would like some relief from deep emotional pain and suffering stemming from their developmental traumas and/or shock traumas. I journey with those who want to thrive and experience joy instead of living day to day to survive. I also assist those who have had years of therapy and feel like they somehow still carry the past traumatic memories and pain that seem to persist. I would also welcome therapists who want to experience receiving therapy in certain modalities and/or those who want the integration of multiple modalities.
Choi will be informed by all of her trainings in psychodynamic therapy, Gestalt Therapy, AEDP, Internal Family System, Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR Brainspotting, Imago Relational Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Lifespan Integration, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, DBT.
I serve those would like some relief from deep emotional pain and suffering stemming from their developmental traumas and/or shock traumas. I journey with those who want to thrive and experience joy instead of living day to day to survive. I also assist those who have had years of therapy and feel like they somehow still carry the past traumatic memories and pain that seem to persist. I would also welcome therapists who want to experience receiving therapy in certain modalities and/or those who want the integration of multiple modalities.
(714) 646-1152 View (714) 646-1152
Photo of Nancy Donkin Young, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy Donkin Young
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
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 Marc Bruderer, MS, MBA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marc Bruderer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MBA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92657
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 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 Julie Rebecca Turvey, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Rebecca Turvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Do you have goals of greater happiness and connection, but aren’t sure why it’s not happening? Are you feeling depressed and anxious and not sure why? Let me help you navigate the confusion! Sometimes there are faulty beliefs about ourselves and communication challenges you need help with. It’s not your fault! You may have not learned the tools yet for navigating some of the emotional challenges of life. I will provide coping skills, teach how to manage challenging emotions, and clarify your needs clearly to those around you. Through facing your pain, you will find greater peace and contentment and reduced mental health symptoms.
Do you have goals of greater happiness and connection, but aren’t sure why it’s not happening? Are you feeling depressed and anxious and not sure why? Let me help you navigate the confusion! Sometimes there are faulty beliefs about ourselves and communication challenges you need help with. It’s not your fault! You may have not learned the tools yet for navigating some of the emotional challenges of life. I will provide coping skills, teach how to manage challenging emotions, and clarify your needs clearly to those around you. Through facing your pain, you will find greater peace and contentment and reduced mental health symptoms.
(562) 352-2294 View (562) 352-2294
Photo of Donald W (Donny) Harris, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donald W (Donny) Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Hello there! Are you transgender or non-binary? Are you gender-questioning? Do you identify as gay or lesbian or bisexual? Are you unsure about who or with what label you identify with, or are you even sure you want to be labeled? Welcome, you've come to the right place....
Hello there! Are you transgender or non-binary? Are you gender-questioning? Do you identify as gay or lesbian or bisexual? Are you unsure about who or with what label you identify with, or are you even sure you want to be labeled? Welcome, you've come to the right place....
(714) 581-9584 View (714) 581-9584

See more therapy options for Huntington Beach

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.