Imago Therapists in La Canada, CA

Photo of Ida S. Karayan, PsyD, LMFT, CBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ida S. Karayan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CBT
Verified Verified
La Canada, CA 91011
I am a certified Bio-energetic and Imago psychotherapist and use many of these techniques in my practice.
During this extraordinary time of increased stress and uncertainty many of us are overwhelmed; facing pain, fear and anxiety as never before. I am an expert in working with clients to confront these challenges. I customize therapeutic methods and help clients develop strategies to overcome individual issues and achieve a balanced approach to life under any circumstances. After 20 years I am still constantly researching, and employ both old and new approaches with my clients. Client relationships are built on a foundation of trust and understanding, and I ensure a safe and professional environment, in-person or through telehealth.
I am a certified Bio-energetic and Imago psychotherapist and use many of these techniques in my practice.
During this extraordinary time of increased stress and uncertainty many of us are overwhelmed; facing pain, fear and anxiety as never before. I am an expert in working with clients to confront these challenges. I customize therapeutic methods and help clients develop strategies to overcome individual issues and achieve a balanced approach to life under any circumstances. After 20 years I am still constantly researching, and employ both old and new approaches with my clients. Client relationships are built on a foundation of trust and understanding, and I ensure a safe and professional environment, in-person or through telehealth.
(818) 243-9070 View (818) 243-9070
Photo of Joanne Diaz-Koegl, MA,LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanne Diaz-Koegl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA,LMFT
Verified Verified
La Canada, CA 91011
My specialties are relationship issues and loss and grief. I have been in practice for over 18 years. I mainly see clients virtually and find it has been just as powerful and proactive as in person. Many clients like the convenience of being able to be in three different locations. In couples therapy, I will help you and your partner identify the conflict issues within your relationship. Couples therapy involves learning how to communicate more effectively, and how to listen more closely. In couples therapy I am proactive and direct helping the couple gain awareness of their "disconnect" by pointing out observed behaviors.
My specialties are relationship issues and loss and grief. I have been in practice for over 18 years. I mainly see clients virtually and find it has been just as powerful and proactive as in person. Many clients like the convenience of being able to be in three different locations. In couples therapy, I will help you and your partner identify the conflict issues within your relationship. Couples therapy involves learning how to communicate more effectively, and how to listen more closely. In couples therapy I am proactive and direct helping the couple gain awareness of their "disconnect" by pointing out observed behaviors.
(323) 366-3559 View (323) 366-3559
Photo of Megan Lazar, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Lazar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Canada, CA 91011
Your relationships are precious to you, but sometimes you struggle with them. As a wife and mother, as well as a therapist, I know first-hand the joys & challenges of these meaningful relationships, & how passionately we work to be the best partner & parent we can be. What a relief it can be to express yourself freely in a warm, supportive environment & be understood! Helping others to heal their pain, gain insight, experience self acceptance, build relationship & communication skills, & develop real resilience has been my privilege for over 20 years. It's time to for you to start feeling better!
Your relationships are precious to you, but sometimes you struggle with them. As a wife and mother, as well as a therapist, I know first-hand the joys & challenges of these meaningful relationships, & how passionately we work to be the best partner & parent we can be. What a relief it can be to express yourself freely in a warm, supportive environment & be understood! Helping others to heal their pain, gain insight, experience self acceptance, build relationship & communication skills, & develop real resilience has been my privilege for over 20 years. It's time to for you to start feeling better!
(818) 647-1326 View (818) 647-1326
Photo of Nesita Kwan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nesita Kwan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
La Canada, CA 91011
You want to get unstuck, have clarity and purpose, be at ease in the world. You're tired of frustrating dead end behaviors, and want the confidence to handle whatever life flings your way. Perhaps the grip of anxiety, the burden of depression, a major life transition or deep grief and loss draw you here today. We will collaboratively build skillful ways/healthy coping mechanisms to navigate overwhelm, stress and burnout. Enhancing psychological flexibility and identifying goals that are uniquely yours lay the groundwork for satisfying relationships and support a life lived on your own terms.
You want to get unstuck, have clarity and purpose, be at ease in the world. You're tired of frustrating dead end behaviors, and want the confidence to handle whatever life flings your way. Perhaps the grip of anxiety, the burden of depression, a major life transition or deep grief and loss draw you here today. We will collaboratively build skillful ways/healthy coping mechanisms to navigate overwhelm, stress and burnout. Enhancing psychological flexibility and identifying goals that are uniquely yours lay the groundwork for satisfying relationships and support a life lived on your own terms.
(323) 997-4604 View (323) 997-4604

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cynthia J Winn, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia J Winn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91103
I am also a certified IMAGO couples therapist, with an emphasis on short term and intensive work that is especially designed to create breakthroughs.
My specialty is working with adolescents to adults. In my practice I integrate several therapeutic methods to achieve your goals... I am also a certified EMDR Therapist. EMDR is a highly effective treatment for people that need deep change, yet do not want to stay stuck with experiencing intense feelings of pain and shame. My client's have found that EMDR has also been a powerful aid in helping them breakthrough addictive feelings/behaviors ( depression, anxiety and behavioral addictions) that keep them in a negative and frustrated mental loop. We end the session with positive protocols that strengthen your objectives.
I am also a certified IMAGO couples therapist, with an emphasis on short term and intensive work that is especially designed to create breakthroughs.
My specialty is working with adolescents to adults. In my practice I integrate several therapeutic methods to achieve your goals... I am also a certified EMDR Therapist. EMDR is a highly effective treatment for people that need deep change, yet do not want to stay stuck with experiencing intense feelings of pain and shame. My client's have found that EMDR has also been a powerful aid in helping them breakthrough addictive feelings/behaviors ( depression, anxiety and behavioral addictions) that keep them in a negative and frustrated mental loop. We end the session with positive protocols that strengthen your objectives.
(818) 294-7331 View (818) 294-7331
Photo of Kathryn Andrews, MA, MFA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kathryn Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I work from a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic perspective while drawing from Gestalt, Imago Relationship Therapy, Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
Life can be extremely challenging. In response, we develop coping mechanisms that work in the moment, but that ultimately hinder our ability to connect with ourselves and others in a healthy way. With my clients, we identify destructive/productive learned behaviors. We practice new ways of interacting and work through past and present struggles, regaining the ability to feel calm, love, and joy! Some of the issues I treat are anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, addiction, and narcissism (stemming from trauma). I work with adults and couples in various stages of life (marriage, new parents, divorce, midlife, etc.).
I work from a psychodynamic/psychoanalytic perspective while drawing from Gestalt, Imago Relationship Therapy, Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
Life can be extremely challenging. In response, we develop coping mechanisms that work in the moment, but that ultimately hinder our ability to connect with ourselves and others in a healthy way. With my clients, we identify destructive/productive learned behaviors. We practice new ways of interacting and work through past and present struggles, regaining the ability to feel calm, love, and joy! Some of the issues I treat are anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, addiction, and narcissism (stemming from trauma). I work with adults and couples in various stages of life (marriage, new parents, divorce, midlife, etc.).
(626) 635-3843 View (626) 635-3843
Photo of Maya Attia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maya Attia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (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 Morella Hammer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Morella Hammer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Imago certified therapist and a certified facilitator for the "Prepare and Enrich" program for couples.
I provide an environment that is empathetic, warm, compassionate & enthusiastic - an environment that facilitates personal change and growth. Since relationships & communication are central to so many of the issues we face, I specialize in Imago Therapy, the revolutionary relationship counseling techniques of Dr. Harville Hendrix. With Imago our issues and conflicts aren't the problem, they're the solution: they're signposts pointing the way toward healing the true, underlying causes. Imago teaches you how to safely explore these deeper emotional undercurrents together, so that your disagreements can actually become opportunities for greater intimacy, as you learn about each other.
I am an Imago certified therapist and a certified facilitator for the "Prepare and Enrich" program for couples.
I provide an environment that is empathetic, warm, compassionate & enthusiastic - an environment that facilitates personal change and growth. Since relationships & communication are central to so many of the issues we face, I specialize in Imago Therapy, the revolutionary relationship counseling techniques of Dr. Harville Hendrix. With Imago our issues and conflicts aren't the problem, they're the solution: they're signposts pointing the way toward healing the true, underlying causes. Imago teaches you how to safely explore these deeper emotional undercurrents together, so that your disagreements can actually become opportunities for greater intimacy, as you learn about each other.
(818) 533-9979 View (818) 533-9979
Photo of John Buse, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Buse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
In addition to being a therapist, John has assisted with Imago workshops for couples called, "Getting the Love You Want" for the past 10 years.
Sometimes we need a little help to reclaim or find our inner strength. I believe we all possess the wisdom to succeed somewhere within our psyche. My goal in therapy is to help clients overcome the obstacles that hinder them on their path. I tend to look for the strengths in individuals and my objective is to embrace each client without judgment in order to create a safe environment. I also believe it is important for one to feel heard and validated for their experience in order to move beyond their blocks.
In addition to being a therapist, John has assisted with Imago workshops for couples called, "Getting the Love You Want" for the past 10 years.
Sometimes we need a little help to reclaim or find our inner strength. I believe we all possess the wisdom to succeed somewhere within our psyche. My goal in therapy is to help clients overcome the obstacles that hinder them on their path. I tend to look for the strengths in individuals and my objective is to embrace each client without judgment in order to create a safe environment. I also believe it is important for one to feel heard and validated for their experience in order to move beyond their blocks.
(323) 601-5604 View (323) 601-5604
Photo of Christina Kousakis, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Kousakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
What is your vision for your life? My non-traditional, postmodern perspective results in a collaborative style of therapy designed to help you find the answer. Together, we will examine the contents of your life and determine which elements will be useful on your journey, and which should be discarded. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and a certified Imago therapist, specializing in individual, pre-marital, couples and parenting issues. My practice, though centered on relationships, includes a wide range of clients whose needs vary from LGBTQ issues, grief, career anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
What is your vision for your life? My non-traditional, postmodern perspective results in a collaborative style of therapy designed to help you find the answer. Together, we will examine the contents of your life and determine which elements will be useful on your journey, and which should be discarded. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and a certified Imago therapist, specializing in individual, pre-marital, couples and parenting issues. My practice, though centered on relationships, includes a wide range of clients whose needs vary from LGBTQ issues, grief, career anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
(626) 658-3376 View (626) 658-3376
Photo of Minnie Goode Imago Relationship Therapy, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Minnie Goode Imago Relationship Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), a powerful and transformative approach that heals and enhances all relationships.
If you are seeking help for your relationship, it's probably because things feel distant, disconnected, or even out of control. You feel like you can't communicate no matter how hard you try. You are tired of arguing. You want to feel close again but don't know where to begin. Maybe you don't recognize yourselves after you had children and day-to-day family life feels overwhelming and joyless. Maybe you've experienced a betrayal and are so filled with sadness and rage you don't recognize yourself anymore. You want to fix things but are afraid of the pain. Perhaps you made a mistake and need help regaining your partner's trust.
I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), a powerful and transformative approach that heals and enhances all relationships.
If you are seeking help for your relationship, it's probably because things feel distant, disconnected, or even out of control. You feel like you can't communicate no matter how hard you try. You are tired of arguing. You want to feel close again but don't know where to begin. Maybe you don't recognize yourselves after you had children and day-to-day family life feels overwhelming and joyless. Maybe you've experienced a betrayal and are so filled with sadness and rage you don't recognize yourself anymore. You want to fix things but are afraid of the pain. Perhaps you made a mistake and need help regaining your partner's trust.
(323) 886-0374 View (323) 886-0374
Photo of A Marie Mastrup, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
A Marie Mastrup
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I find that Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and IMAGO Therapy, are effective approaches to address trauma, anxiety, OCD and issues of Codependency and Self-Worth.
Limited openings, please e-mail for availability. After 15 years working with community-based agencies in multiple roles as well as about 20 years working with vulnerable youth, I am happily dedicated to private practice care. My practice is centered around whole-person treatment. Together, we will explore root causes to your symptoms, the narrative of your family system, process old trauma and develop healthy coping skills to manage your symptoms. Trauma, OCD, ADHD, Generalized Anxiety and Codependency Treatment, are my primary specialties. I look forward to learning about and helping you identify your unique goals for therapy.
I find that Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and IMAGO Therapy, are effective approaches to address trauma, anxiety, OCD and issues of Codependency and Self-Worth.
Limited openings, please e-mail for availability. After 15 years working with community-based agencies in multiple roles as well as about 20 years working with vulnerable youth, I am happily dedicated to private practice care. My practice is centered around whole-person treatment. Together, we will explore root causes to your symptoms, the narrative of your family system, process old trauma and develop healthy coping skills to manage your symptoms. Trauma, OCD, ADHD, Generalized Anxiety and Codependency Treatment, are my primary specialties. I look forward to learning about and helping you identify your unique goals for therapy.
(323) 576-4671 View (323) 576-4671
Photo of Natalya Sivashov, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalya Sivashov
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
A specialty that I offer is working with couples utilizing Imago Relationship Therapy.
I lived in 3 different countries throughout my formative years which has inspired in me a love for multiculturalism, open-heartedness, resilience, and a passion for helping people heal. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Additionally, I am genuinely respectful and considerate of all different sexual and gender identities, cultures, ethnicities, and faiths. I draw from my interest, knowledge, and experience with somatic experiencing, EMDR, depth psychotherapy, mythology, and eco-therapy to assist my clients.
A specialty that I offer is working with couples utilizing Imago Relationship Therapy.
I lived in 3 different countries throughout my formative years which has inspired in me a love for multiculturalism, open-heartedness, resilience, and a passion for helping people heal. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Additionally, I am genuinely respectful and considerate of all different sexual and gender identities, cultures, ethnicities, and faiths. I draw from my interest, knowledge, and experience with somatic experiencing, EMDR, depth psychotherapy, mythology, and eco-therapy to assist my clients.
(626) 790-7060 View (626) 790-7060
Photo of Larisa Southerland, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Larisa Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91201  (Online Only)
I primarily use Imago Relationship Therapy to help repair relational ruptures, rebuild trust, and develop effective ways of communicating that soon become second nature.
Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
I primarily use Imago Relationship Therapy to help repair relational ruptures, rebuild trust, and develop effective ways of communicating that soon become second nature.
Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
(323) 894-0768 View (323) 894-0768
Photo of Sulfiati Meariam Magnuson - Sulfiati's Threshold Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sulfiati's Threshold Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sierra Madre, CA 91024  (Online Only)
I have 20+ years experience, grounded in Jungian psychology, Trauma/Disaster Recovery, Attachment Theory and I'm a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist.
Are you at a crossroads? Throughout life, we experience "little deaths" that change our life’s course. Loss of a dream, health, family, the earth we stand on, job, marriage, relationship, country or beliefs can suddenly take us over a threshold, chosen or not into a new world where life no longer makes any sense. Our old tools and ways of coping or understanding our self or our world are no longer enough to pilot us to the other side of what can feel like a vast, deep and turbulent river. While often terrifying, these are the golden opportunities in which our true nature, our soul or purpose in life can be revealed.
I have 20+ years experience, grounded in Jungian psychology, Trauma/Disaster Recovery, Attachment Theory and I'm a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist.
Are you at a crossroads? Throughout life, we experience "little deaths" that change our life’s course. Loss of a dream, health, family, the earth we stand on, job, marriage, relationship, country or beliefs can suddenly take us over a threshold, chosen or not into a new world where life no longer makes any sense. Our old tools and ways of coping or understanding our self or our world are no longer enough to pilot us to the other side of what can feel like a vast, deep and turbulent river. While often terrifying, these are the golden opportunities in which our true nature, our soul or purpose in life can be revealed.
(626) 727-8053 View (626) 727-8053
Photo of Charlotte Haigh, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charlotte Haigh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90068
You are fed up with repeating patterns that feel self-destructive. You are tired of being so reactive to the same triggers. You are ready for change, for relationships that fill your cup, and for a life that is purposeful and passionate. And you are probably totally overwhelmed right now. I get it. Wading through pages of therapist bios when you're already stressed, sad, and/or confused can be kind of the worst thing ever. But I'm here to help! I support clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, relationship issues, low self-esteem, stress and lack of clarity that big life transitions can kick up.
You are fed up with repeating patterns that feel self-destructive. You are tired of being so reactive to the same triggers. You are ready for change, for relationships that fill your cup, and for a life that is purposeful and passionate. And you are probably totally overwhelmed right now. I get it. Wading through pages of therapist bios when you're already stressed, sad, and/or confused can be kind of the worst thing ever. But I'm here to help! I support clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, relationship issues, low self-esteem, stress and lack of clarity that big life transitions can kick up.
(805) 504-8731 View (805) 504-8731
Photo of Julieta Alas, AMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Julieta Alas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
“Taking care of yourself is not a selfish act.” -Leslie Knope. Congratulations on taking another step in your healing journey. As someone who has been in the client’s chair herself, I know finding the right care can be overwhelming. With my own marginalized identities and lived experiences, I have witnessed the barriers of receiving treatment firsthand, and I understand the significance of having a clinician who is knowledgeable about how our identities impact our journeys. Because of this, cultural humility, social justice, and identity-affirmation are important values that are a part of my practice.
“Taking care of yourself is not a selfish act.” -Leslie Knope. Congratulations on taking another step in your healing journey. As someone who has been in the client’s chair herself, I know finding the right care can be overwhelming. With my own marginalized identities and lived experiences, I have witnessed the barriers of receiving treatment firsthand, and I understand the significance of having a clinician who is knowledgeable about how our identities impact our journeys. Because of this, cultural humility, social justice, and identity-affirmation are important values that are a part of my practice.
(626) 322-2780 View (626) 322-2780
Photo of Sheila Traviss, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila Traviss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
If you find yourself repeating patterns that you just can't seem to break, feel stuck, or unable to find meaning in your life, I'd like to help. The therapeutic relationship can be a powerful source of healing, change and liberation in your life. I offer compassion and authenticity and believe that healing, and change are possible for all people. I am committed to discovering what is best for you and offer guidance through the darkest moments. Together we can unravel what keeps you in grief, depression, fear or anxiety.
If you find yourself repeating patterns that you just can't seem to break, feel stuck, or unable to find meaning in your life, I'd like to help. The therapeutic relationship can be a powerful source of healing, change and liberation in your life. I offer compassion and authenticity and believe that healing, and change are possible for all people. I am committed to discovering what is best for you and offer guidance through the darkest moments. Together we can unravel what keeps you in grief, depression, fear or anxiety.
(323) 282-7354 View (323) 282-7354
Photo of Sara Lappan, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Lappan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alhambra, CA 91803  (Online Only)
Humans are relational beings and relationships play an important role in our everyday lives. When relationships get off track, it can be overwhelming. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help relationships heal. I seek to help individuals, couples and families navigate a wide range of challenges pertaining to relationships. I have an interest in relational concerns around sexual dynamics as well as improving relational vulnerability and connection. I work from both a contextual and systems perspective to honor how an individual's intersections of identity influence how they interact with and are received by the world.
Humans are relational beings and relationships play an important role in our everyday lives. When relationships get off track, it can be overwhelming. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help relationships heal. I seek to help individuals, couples and families navigate a wide range of challenges pertaining to relationships. I have an interest in relational concerns around sexual dynamics as well as improving relational vulnerability and connection. I work from both a contextual and systems perspective to honor how an individual's intersections of identity influence how they interact with and are received by the world.
(626) 317-6380 View (626) 317-6380
Photo of Dr. Shannon Chavez, PsyD, MA, LCP, CST, Psychologist
Dr. Shannon Chavez
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LCP, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Do you have a sexual issue that is holding you back from experiencing your full sexual potential? Let's work together to improve your sexual health and overcome sexual concerns. Sex begins in the brain, our biggest sexual organ. Our work together will explore your thoughts, beliefs, and values around sexuality. Together we will break down the stigmas around sex and create a personalized plan to improve sexual functioning that can include therapy, coaching, and sex education. My practice focuses on sexual health and pleasure enhancement as a path to improving overall health and wellness.
Do you have a sexual issue that is holding you back from experiencing your full sexual potential? Let's work together to improve your sexual health and overcome sexual concerns. Sex begins in the brain, our biggest sexual organ. Our work together will explore your thoughts, beliefs, and values around sexuality. Together we will break down the stigmas around sex and create a personalized plan to improve sexual functioning that can include therapy, coaching, and sex education. My practice focuses on sexual health and pleasure enhancement as a path to improving overall health and wellness.
(310) 928-9284 View (310) 928-9284
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.