Imago Therapists in North Hollywood, CA
![Photo of Cindy Sordo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9c7d576-503a-4591-8b63-257209c96df9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy Sordo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91606 (Online Only)
I understand that everyone needs and deserves a safe, trusting space to process the human experience. I believe that each individual experience is unique, while also understanding that no one should feel alone or that what they feel or need is wrong or abnormal. I help my clients feel empowered and capable of making decisions to live a most fulfilling life, as well as able to handle stressors while meeting their needs. I help process the multiple factors that contribute to one’s mental, physical, and spiritual health and life choices, as well as uncover the underlying fears that can impact our feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
I understand that everyone needs and deserves a safe, trusting space to process the human experience. I believe that each individual experience is unique, while also understanding that no one should feel alone or that what they feel or need is wrong or abnormal. I help my clients feel empowered and capable of making decisions to live a most fulfilling life, as well as able to handle stressors while meeting their needs. I help process the multiple factors that contribute to one’s mental, physical, and spiritual health and life choices, as well as uncover the underlying fears that can impact our feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
![Photo of James E. Walton, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be4448b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have the right life partner? Consider the following questions, and if most of your answers are yes, you may want to hold onto and work on that relationship. Which qualities attracted you to your spouse? Do they still have the qualities you found so attractive when you first met? Are they often honest, trustworthy, faithful, supportive and kind? Are they willing to change and grow to meet the dynamics of your relationship? Will divorce harm you or your family? Will staying married have a more harmful effect? How will the divorce affect your family, especially your children?
Do you have the right life partner? Consider the following questions, and if most of your answers are yes, you may want to hold onto and work on that relationship. Which qualities attracted you to your spouse? Do they still have the qualities you found so attractive when you first met? Are they often honest, trustworthy, faithful, supportive and kind? Are they willing to change and grow to meet the dynamics of your relationship? Will divorce harm you or your family? Will staying married have a more harmful effect? How will the divorce affect your family, especially your children?
![Photo of Jarvis Sams, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0067c355-e531-4511-acb9-edc083777f01/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jarvis Sams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91601 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Like many people, I was skeptical regarding the benefits of therapy, but through my own therapeutic experience, I learned how rewarding it is. As a clinician, I provide the questions and guide the reflection that helps my clients see their concerns more clearly and grow real solutions that serve them. Part of this process is nurturing a safe space where judgment is missing and thoughts become organized. My belief is that change is ever constant and happens around us even when we believe things are static. Many people get stuck in patterns that do not serve them and some of us may even be afraid to go in a different direction.
Like many people, I was skeptical regarding the benefits of therapy, but through my own therapeutic experience, I learned how rewarding it is. As a clinician, I provide the questions and guide the reflection that helps my clients see their concerns more clearly and grow real solutions that serve them. Part of this process is nurturing a safe space where judgment is missing and thoughts become organized. My belief is that change is ever constant and happens around us even when we believe things are static. Many people get stuck in patterns that do not serve them and some of us may even be afraid to go in a different direction.
![Photo of Danielle Cutler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2082ceb6-b297-405e-bff5-5472b77482cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Cutler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Hollywood, CA 91602
Not accepting new clients
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified ADHD Professional. I work through a depth-psychology lens to pinpoint and heal developmental and trauma wounds by identifying unconscious/subconscious thoughts that create the symptoms that lead you to therapy. Meanwhile, I simultaneously provide knowledge and tools to empower and guide you to discovery of your true Self. During the pandemic I experienced and then trained in brainspotting, which I use in person, online, and over the phone to nuke the source of stubborn symptoms that have not responded to traditional talk therapy.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified ADHD Professional. I work through a depth-psychology lens to pinpoint and heal developmental and trauma wounds by identifying unconscious/subconscious thoughts that create the symptoms that lead you to therapy. Meanwhile, I simultaneously provide knowledge and tools to empower and guide you to discovery of your true Self. During the pandemic I experienced and then trained in brainspotting, which I use in person, online, and over the phone to nuke the source of stubborn symptoms that have not responded to traditional talk therapy.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Isabel Rothschild Bartel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c628ec7-f81c-4104-9af5-c113295f99e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Isabel Rothschild Bartel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604 (Online Only)
I provide a safe therapeutic environment with a focus on developing life long skills. I view therapy as a collaborative process. Together, we will formulate your goals and strive towards greater self-acceptance. We will identify strengths and resiliency to support growth. Let's work in collaboration with a kind curiosity on this journey of self-discovery. I work with couples to rediscover closeness and reduce conflict in the relationship through Imago Relationship Therapy. I also offer Discernment Counseling for couples needing support in deciding whether or not to stay together.
I provide a safe therapeutic environment with a focus on developing life long skills. I view therapy as a collaborative process. Together, we will formulate your goals and strive towards greater self-acceptance. We will identify strengths and resiliency to support growth. Let's work in collaboration with a kind curiosity on this journey of self-discovery. I work with couples to rediscover closeness and reduce conflict in the relationship through Imago Relationship Therapy. I also offer Discernment Counseling for couples needing support in deciding whether or not to stay together.
![Photo of Marcia Hayden - Marcia Hayden MA, LMFT, LMFT, IMAGO, EMDR, TRM, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4baa0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marcia Hayden MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMAGO, EMDR, TRM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I have specialized in working with couples since 2005 as an Imago Therapist.
Do you struggle in your Relationships? Whether you have been together for years or you just met, there is a reason why you have chosen your partner out of millions of people! I have a passion for working with Individuals and Couples who have had challenging childhoods. I have noticed that these people often need help in their relationships! I will show you how to heal each other through the pain to have an amazing Relationship in an interesting and enriching way. Note: I am currently accepting new clients through " Virtual Therapy" during quarantine.
I have specialized in working with couples since 2005 as an Imago Therapist.
Do you struggle in your Relationships? Whether you have been together for years or you just met, there is a reason why you have chosen your partner out of millions of people! I have a passion for working with Individuals and Couples who have had challenging childhoods. I have noticed that these people often need help in their relationships! I will show you how to heal each other through the pain to have an amazing Relationship in an interesting and enriching way. Note: I am currently accepting new clients through " Virtual Therapy" during quarantine.
![Photo of Yossi Benperlas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40fea355-2f27-464f-9006-9e680ca06985/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yossi Benperlas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607 (Online Only)
When working with couples, I use an active approach and I encourage both partners to talk directly to one another in a way that is respectful and compassionate by using the Imago Dialogue.
As a therapist who has worked with individuals and families within the community for the last 20 years, it is my goal to provide you with an opportunity to create change in areas of your life where you feel stuck. Whether your struggle is in a relationship or stress related to some other circumstance, we will discuss the issues so that you can feel empowered to take action that will lead to positive changes.
When working with couples, I use an active approach and I encourage both partners to talk directly to one another in a way that is respectful and compassionate by using the Imago Dialogue.
As a therapist who has worked with individuals and families within the community for the last 20 years, it is my goal to provide you with an opportunity to create change in areas of your life where you feel stuck. Whether your struggle is in a relationship or stress related to some other circumstance, we will discuss the issues so that you can feel empowered to take action that will lead to positive changes.
![Photo of Kate Loree, LMFT, ATR, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/313f91cc-0d71-4ca6-a39c-333bcb593f8b/1/320x400.png)
Kate Loree
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604 (Online Only)
I specialize in non-monogamous, kink, sex worker, and LGBTQ communities. Growth occurs in an atmosphere of respect, compassion and a belief in the human capacity for healing, change and reparation. My approach emphasizes insight, emotional healing, and empowerment to help you reach you highest potential and develop a more gratifying life. Couples/Relationships: Both Imago and Emotionally Focused Therapy heavily influence my work to encourage the strengthening of trust, mutual respect, understanding, intimacy and love. We will work together to untangle confusing thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns to rediscover your capacity to make meaningful choices that are right for you or your relationship.
I specialize in non-monogamous, kink, sex worker, and LGBTQ communities. Growth occurs in an atmosphere of respect, compassion and a belief in the human capacity for healing, change and reparation. My approach emphasizes insight, emotional healing, and empowerment to help you reach you highest potential and develop a more gratifying life. Couples/Relationships: Both Imago and Emotionally Focused Therapy heavily influence my work to encourage the strengthening of trust, mutual respect, understanding, intimacy and love. We will work together to untangle confusing thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns to rediscover your capacity to make meaningful choices that are right for you or your relationship.
![Photo of Rabbi Yael E. Saidoff, MA , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a309050-efc1-4959-a2b3-b8df2a602d1d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rabbi Yael E. Saidoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Find Your Center: Many of us today feel disconnected. Our days are filled with a steady stream of obligations and desires. We call that: ‘life.’ Directing our unique path in a proactive way can bring new meaning to our lives. Collaboratively, we'll find a path that leads to your truest self and to the person you want to become. Building Relationships: Cultivating intimacy with others requires developing intimacy with oneself. With compassion and guidance it is possible to learn to love oneself and, in turn, love others more deeply.
Find Your Center: Many of us today feel disconnected. Our days are filled with a steady stream of obligations and desires. We call that: ‘life.’ Directing our unique path in a proactive way can bring new meaning to our lives. Collaboratively, we'll find a path that leads to your truest self and to the person you want to become. Building Relationships: Cultivating intimacy with others requires developing intimacy with oneself. With compassion and guidance it is possible to learn to love oneself and, in turn, love others more deeply.
![Photo of Brett Richards - Brett Richards, M.A., LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd6daed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brett Richards, M.A., LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
If you're struggling, I'm here to help you. I Help People Live Happier, More Satisfying Lives. I Provide Professional Psychotherapy and Counseling FOR INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, AND FAMILIES. I'm also very understanding, down-to-earth, easy to talk to, accepting, non-judgmental, supportive, and kind. As your psychotherapist, I'll help you by using Trusted Professional Psychotherapy Methods (including optional Hypnosis), blended with Eastern Wisdom. I welcome various issues, cultures, and lifestyles, and always customize therapy to your specific needs. I have guided many people through emotional healing, difficult life transitions, and exciting personal growth. You deserve to feel better! There IS Hope!
If you're struggling, I'm here to help you. I Help People Live Happier, More Satisfying Lives. I Provide Professional Psychotherapy and Counseling FOR INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, AND FAMILIES. I'm also very understanding, down-to-earth, easy to talk to, accepting, non-judgmental, supportive, and kind. As your psychotherapist, I'll help you by using Trusted Professional Psychotherapy Methods (including optional Hypnosis), blended with Eastern Wisdom. I welcome various issues, cultures, and lifestyles, and always customize therapy to your specific needs. I have guided many people through emotional healing, difficult life transitions, and exciting personal growth. You deserve to feel better! There IS Hope!
![Photo of John Porterfield, MFT, Jungian, Analyst, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be15755-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
John Porterfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, Jungian, Analyst
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
Need support as you make changes in your life and move towards your true goals? I help individuals and couples develop effective solutions for resolving lingering problems and overcoming challenges that keep you from moving forward towards the goals that you value and desire. Deep down, we generally know what it is we need. I pay close attention, and reflect your own inner wisdom back to you in a way that is practical and often liberating. The way becomes more clear as you decide to simply, and more truly, become yourself. A warm, compassionate therapeutic relationship can help you in finding the direction you are seeking.
Need support as you make changes in your life and move towards your true goals? I help individuals and couples develop effective solutions for resolving lingering problems and overcoming challenges that keep you from moving forward towards the goals that you value and desire. Deep down, we generally know what it is we need. I pay close attention, and reflect your own inner wisdom back to you in a way that is practical and often liberating. The way becomes more clear as you decide to simply, and more truly, become yourself. A warm, compassionate therapeutic relationship can help you in finding the direction you are seeking.
![Photo of Lynn Ingber - Affordable Therapy Los Angeles, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfeab35-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Affordable Therapy Los Angeles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91607 (Online Only)
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
![Photo of George Lough, PhD, SEP, NARM, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/040a84c7-ead6-462f-9c67-fb8fd44aa20f/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you grew up in a dysfunctional family it is essential to understand and heal from the emotional wounds you suffered in that environment. You internalized bad relationship styles. Your wounds may appear in the form of excessive fears, unexplained sadness, inappropriate expressions of anger and an inability to be creative. Facing the truth about your emotional wounds can give you the freedom to be your true self. In our therapy I'll provide you with the support and guidance you need, bringing a spiritual perspective, giving you an understanding of how your past affects your present.
If you grew up in a dysfunctional family it is essential to understand and heal from the emotional wounds you suffered in that environment. You internalized bad relationship styles. Your wounds may appear in the form of excessive fears, unexplained sadness, inappropriate expressions of anger and an inability to be creative. Facing the truth about your emotional wounds can give you the freedom to be your true self. In our therapy I'll provide you with the support and guidance you need, bringing a spiritual perspective, giving you an understanding of how your past affects your present.
![Photo of George (Butch) Warner, LMFT, (CA), CADC-II, LAADC, CCAPP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4087cde1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
George (Butch) Warner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, (CA), CADC-II, LAADC, CCAPP
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604 (Online Only)
(Zoom Video sessions) My ideal client: A creative, motivated, and intelligent professional with an obsession, usually drugs/alcohol and/or sex. A higher percentage of creative people struggle with addiction, because they just don't know when to quit! Creatives frequently have low self-esteem, often despite proven success. Using cognitive (CBT) techniques and psychodynamic methods (how events from the past affect the present) I use a pragmatic, individualized approach. I include solution-focused and music/art therapy to help the client gain insight and put the insight to work to achieve realistic goals.
(Zoom Video sessions) My ideal client: A creative, motivated, and intelligent professional with an obsession, usually drugs/alcohol and/or sex. A higher percentage of creative people struggle with addiction, because they just don't know when to quit! Creatives frequently have low self-esteem, often despite proven success. Using cognitive (CBT) techniques and psychodynamic methods (how events from the past affect the present) I use a pragmatic, individualized approach. I include solution-focused and music/art therapy to help the client gain insight and put the insight to work to achieve realistic goals.
![Photo of Heidi Mezzatesta, MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1f9f96-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Mezzatesta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604 (Online Only)
Play, with neither a plan or purpose, is the best precondition -- Marie-Louise von Franz. Everyone has a story and sometimes we become stuck in our story because we want to move in a direction that may be different than what is expected. Being stuck may manifest with symptoms of anxiety, depression or other disorders. My approach is to encounter these symptoms with curiosity rather than judgment. The role of therapy is to provide understanding and an empathetic ear with a belief that the activity of therapy will provide insight and healing.
Play, with neither a plan or purpose, is the best precondition -- Marie-Louise von Franz. Everyone has a story and sometimes we become stuck in our story because we want to move in a direction that may be different than what is expected. Being stuck may manifest with symptoms of anxiety, depression or other disorders. My approach is to encounter these symptoms with curiosity rather than judgment. The role of therapy is to provide understanding and an empathetic ear with a belief that the activity of therapy will provide insight and healing.
![Photo of Tara Gilmaher, LMFT, MFA, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42382fcf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Gilmaher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MFA, CHT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401 (Online Only)
"I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become." ~ Carl Jung. Do you feel overwhelmed, have pain, grief, anxiety, depression, or unseen shadows that prevent you from healing or from choosing better decisions, relationships, and allowing yourself to matter in your own life? My experience and education can help people hungering for more purpose, fulfillment, and nurturing relationships instead of dissonance, exhaustion, and sacrifice, those who know what you were aiming for, but discovered you’re at the top of the wrong ladder. If you feel like you’re different or unseen, then I may be the psychotherapist you’ve sought.
"I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become." ~ Carl Jung. Do you feel overwhelmed, have pain, grief, anxiety, depression, or unseen shadows that prevent you from healing or from choosing better decisions, relationships, and allowing yourself to matter in your own life? My experience and education can help people hungering for more purpose, fulfillment, and nurturing relationships instead of dissonance, exhaustion, and sacrifice, those who know what you were aiming for, but discovered you’re at the top of the wrong ladder. If you feel like you’re different or unseen, then I may be the psychotherapist you’ve sought.
![Photo of Premarital Counseling Woodland Hills, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc4f6e38-882f-4003-8f54-5ec981f7a9fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Premarital Counseling Woodland Hills
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Hello & welcome! Need a calm and knowledgeable Therapist to guide you through your PreMarital Counseling? I have 30 yrs exp helping engaged or ready to get engaged Couples lock in the best ways to communicate, solve problems together & manage differences that may happen before or after the wedding. My goal is to give you the tools that you need to create and maintain a resilient marriage. Exclusive discount on video sessions to make your life a little easier. Pre-Paid Package deals are available on my website.
Hello & welcome! Need a calm and knowledgeable Therapist to guide you through your PreMarital Counseling? I have 30 yrs exp helping engaged or ready to get engaged Couples lock in the best ways to communicate, solve problems together & manage differences that may happen before or after the wedding. My goal is to give you the tools that you need to create and maintain a resilient marriage. Exclusive discount on video sessions to make your life a little easier. Pre-Paid Package deals are available on my website.
![Photo of Debbie B. Dery, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b8f260d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you feel stuck in your relationship/s, experiencing stress and anxiety, feeling sad, struggling with your partner and/or parenting raising a child with ADHD, we can work together and identify the source of what brought you in to therapy, identify your goals, and explore best possible solutions that will help you feel successful. I creatively integrate a relational model and scientifically proven cognitive behavior techniques which will allow clients gain insight and acquire tools for a positive change in their lives. Together we can find your true growth potential so you can lead a fulfilling life that is worth celebrating.
Whether you feel stuck in your relationship/s, experiencing stress and anxiety, feeling sad, struggling with your partner and/or parenting raising a child with ADHD, we can work together and identify the source of what brought you in to therapy, identify your goals, and explore best possible solutions that will help you feel successful. I creatively integrate a relational model and scientifically proven cognitive behavior techniques which will allow clients gain insight and acquire tools for a positive change in their lives. Together we can find your true growth potential so you can lead a fulfilling life that is worth celebrating.
![Photo of Andrew D. Greif, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e25b63f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
![Photo of Nancy Willinger, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cadf0ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work focuses on relieving the pain of psychological trauma, finding and strengthening one's sense of self and enhancing personal relationships. I apply interventions that will maximize the quality of your life.
My work focuses on relieving the pain of psychological trauma, finding and strengthening one's sense of self and enhancing personal relationships. I apply interventions that will maximize the quality of your life.
See more therapy options for North Hollywood
Nearby Imago Therapists Searches for North Hollywood
- Beverly Hills
- Burbank
- Encino
- Glendale
- Hollywood
- Northridge
- Sherman Oaks
- Studio City
- Tarzana
- Valley Village
- Van Nuys
- West Hollywood
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.