Imago Therapists in Placerville, CA

Photo of Melissa Ann Gallagher, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Ann Gallagher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Placerville, CA 95667  (Online Only)
I am currently offering Telehealth sessions through video conferencing. I work with individuals, couples and parents that are seeking a change. As your therapist, I will help you identify patterns that are causing you distress and teach you skills that will decrease unwanted behaviors.
I am currently offering Telehealth sessions through video conferencing. I work with individuals, couples and parents that are seeking a change. As your therapist, I will help you identify patterns that are causing you distress and teach you skills that will decrease unwanted behaviors.
(530) 317-4348 View (530) 317-4348
Photo of Jennifer A Alexander, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer A Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Placerville, CA 95667
I am honored to serve anyone struggling with any type of trauma/PTSD, addiction, depression, or anxiety who wants life to be a little different. Total healing IS possible! I have a passion for non-judgemental connection with people who are nervous about being vulnerable, don’t want therapy, or have had a bad experience in the past. It can be fun and is worth the work! I like to partner with you to discover your strengths and help you reach YOUR goals. My ideal client is someone who has a good sense of humor, a desire for change, an open mind, ok w/an occassional bad word (or two), and MUST love dogs. I do animal assisted therapy.
I am honored to serve anyone struggling with any type of trauma/PTSD, addiction, depression, or anxiety who wants life to be a little different. Total healing IS possible! I have a passion for non-judgemental connection with people who are nervous about being vulnerable, don’t want therapy, or have had a bad experience in the past. It can be fun and is worth the work! I like to partner with you to discover your strengths and help you reach YOUR goals. My ideal client is someone who has a good sense of humor, a desire for change, an open mind, ok w/an occassional bad word (or two), and MUST love dogs. I do animal assisted therapy.
(916) 461-5853 View (916) 461-5853
Michaela Renee Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Placerville, CA 95667
I'm Michaela Johnson, a seasoned Clinical Sex Therapist and Collaborative Attachment Based Therapist. For over a decade, I've been navigating the intricate realms of human intimacy, drawing inspiration from the vast expanse of the skies to guide my clients through their emotional journeys. Just as a skilled pilot maneuvers through turbulent weather, I assist my clients in charting a course through the challenges of relationships, helping them soar to new heights of emotional well-being. My expertise lies in unraveling the complexities of human intimacy, addressing primal wounds that often hinder personal growth and connection.
I'm Michaela Johnson, a seasoned Clinical Sex Therapist and Collaborative Attachment Based Therapist. For over a decade, I've been navigating the intricate realms of human intimacy, drawing inspiration from the vast expanse of the skies to guide my clients through their emotional journeys. Just as a skilled pilot maneuvers through turbulent weather, I assist my clients in charting a course through the challenges of relationships, helping them soar to new heights of emotional well-being. My expertise lies in unraveling the complexities of human intimacy, addressing primal wounds that often hinder personal growth and connection.
(530) 776-5765 View (530) 776-5765
Photo of Carol Titta - Material Source, Inc., MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Material Source, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Placerville, CA 95667
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my site! I specialize in psychotherapy for children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families to navigate life challenges. Therapy is a collaborative endeavor with you, the client setting the course to achieve your identified goals. I act as your guide in a supportive and compassionate manner providing skills & tools to foster your growth. We focus on promoting positive change, removing obstacles, building on your strengths and enhancing your resilience. My individualized approach encompasses the use of play, art, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnosis, and a wide variety of other therapeutic techniques to meet your needs.
Welcome to my site! I specialize in psychotherapy for children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families to navigate life challenges. Therapy is a collaborative endeavor with you, the client setting the course to achieve your identified goals. I act as your guide in a supportive and compassionate manner providing skills & tools to foster your growth. We focus on promoting positive change, removing obstacles, building on your strengths and enhancing your resilience. My individualized approach encompasses the use of play, art, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnosis, and a wide variety of other therapeutic techniques to meet your needs.
(916) 993-5419 View (916) 993-5419

Online Therapists

Photo of Mika K Shiner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mika K Shiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
My couples work is informed by the Gottman Method, Imago, and Relational Life therapies.
Life and relationships: ever-changing and often challenging. I offer a safe and collaborative, therapeutic relationship, where you can expand your ability to improve the quality of your life and your relationships. I specialize in working with young adults, individuals, and couples. Therapy can provide understanding, relief from suffering, healthier relationships, and personal empowerment. Each person or couple benefits from therapy design specifically for them.
My couples work is informed by the Gottman Method, Imago, and Relational Life therapies.
Life and relationships: ever-changing and often challenging. I offer a safe and collaborative, therapeutic relationship, where you can expand your ability to improve the quality of your life and your relationships. I specialize in working with young adults, individuals, and couples. Therapy can provide understanding, relief from suffering, healthier relationships, and personal empowerment. Each person or couple benefits from therapy design specifically for them.
(707) 418-9715 View (707) 418-9715
Photo of Brad Gilbert - Brad Gilbert, Trauma and Sex Addiction, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brad Gilbert, Trauma and Sex Addiction
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
I use the Imago and Gottman approaches with couples therapy for increased intimacy and decreased conflict.
2 OPEN Spots in my Hybrid Men's Sex Addiction Group. Details are listed in my Groups below.....Are you struggling to stay in the present because of trauma triggers or addictive behaviors? I find out what works best for you using my skills of psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, humor and good 'ol common sense. I will help you uncover your greatest potential. I will teach you effective tools for improved mood and decreased conflict from our first sessions together. So call for your free phone consult NOW!
I use the Imago and Gottman approaches with couples therapy for increased intimacy and decreased conflict.
2 OPEN Spots in my Hybrid Men's Sex Addiction Group. Details are listed in my Groups below.....Are you struggling to stay in the present because of trauma triggers or addictive behaviors? I find out what works best for you using my skills of psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, humor and good 'ol common sense. I will help you uncover your greatest potential. I will teach you effective tools for improved mood and decreased conflict from our first sessions together. So call for your free phone consult NOW!
(916) 378-5057 View (916) 378-5057
Photo of Peter Wong, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peter Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rocklin, CA 95765
I am trained in IMAGO therapy, and a certified Prepare Enrich facilitator.
I enjoy working with teens and adults who is looking for relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. Many of these stressors can lead to a crisis, substance abuse, and thoughts of suicide. Wanting to find relief from these struggles can be daunting, yet it is possible. I believe that each individual needs to be considered as a whole and the therapy process should be tailored to their individual needs and personal circumstances.
I am trained in IMAGO therapy, and a certified Prepare Enrich facilitator.
I enjoy working with teens and adults who is looking for relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. Many of these stressors can lead to a crisis, substance abuse, and thoughts of suicide. Wanting to find relief from these struggles can be daunting, yet it is possible. I believe that each individual needs to be considered as a whole and the therapy process should be tailored to their individual needs and personal circumstances.
(530) 203-8074 View (530) 203-8074
Photo of Darla Lynn Gale - Darla Lynn Gale, MA, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darla Lynn Gale, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Loomis, CA 95650
Waitlist for new clients
I work with couples using Imago Therapy and I have extensive experience working with codependency, narcissistic personality, anxiety, depression and domestic violence.
I have a deep desire to provide healing to those who are hurting, to give each individual the resources for positive change, and to help them gain insight and understanding into the world; resulting in a brighter tomorrow. I believe that you cannot change the past, but you can be strengthened by it. My favorite quotes is 'It's okay to look back into the past, just don't stare." The client-therapist relationship is of the utmost importance to me and my goal is to lead individuals on a personal journey of awareness while providing them with hope, empathy, and unconditional positive regard.
I work with couples using Imago Therapy and I have extensive experience working with codependency, narcissistic personality, anxiety, depression and domestic violence.
I have a deep desire to provide healing to those who are hurting, to give each individual the resources for positive change, and to help them gain insight and understanding into the world; resulting in a brighter tomorrow. I believe that you cannot change the past, but you can be strengthened by it. My favorite quotes is 'It's okay to look back into the past, just don't stare." The client-therapist relationship is of the utmost importance to me and my goal is to lead individuals on a personal journey of awareness while providing them with hope, empathy, and unconditional positive regard.
(916) 827-3090 View (916) 827-3090
Photo of Marie Newson, MA, MFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marie Newson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, RYT
Verified Verified
Loomis, CA 95650  (Online Only)
The modalities I find most effective are the Gottman Method and Imago Relationship Therapy.
What would your life look like with less anxiety, healthier relationships, more productivity, improved self-esteem and better personal effectiveness? I believe we are wired to want these things; but sometimes don’t have the tools to achieve them. We can’t change the past, but we can understand what is at the root of present-day challenges and move on from them. Additionally, I provide tools and effective communication strategies to help propel you forward toward your goals and dreams Clients sometimes say, “I wish I’d tried therapy a long time ago”. You are ready when you are ready. It’s never too late for positive self-growth!
The modalities I find most effective are the Gottman Method and Imago Relationship Therapy.
What would your life look like with less anxiety, healthier relationships, more productivity, improved self-esteem and better personal effectiveness? I believe we are wired to want these things; but sometimes don’t have the tools to achieve them. We can’t change the past, but we can understand what is at the root of present-day challenges and move on from them. Additionally, I provide tools and effective communication strategies to help propel you forward toward your goals and dreams Clients sometimes say, “I wish I’d tried therapy a long time ago”. You are ready when you are ready. It’s never too late for positive self-growth!
(424) 294-8977 View (424) 294-8977
Photo of Jamie Rizzo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Rizzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bethel Island, CA 94511  (Online Only)
For couples who are experiencing crisis, communication issues, or want to deepen their connection, I use Imago Relationship Therapy, among other techniques, to facilitate the process.
You realize what you're doing no longer works for you. You are ready to learn new coping skills and techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. Life transitions have led you to this point, and you are seeking therapy to assist you in healing and moving forward into the life you want to live. You long to thrive! I believe that each person carries the resources within themselves to create the life they envision. You will learn to access your inner resources to navigate life experiences and deepen your connection to Self.
For couples who are experiencing crisis, communication issues, or want to deepen their connection, I use Imago Relationship Therapy, among other techniques, to facilitate the process.
You realize what you're doing no longer works for you. You are ready to learn new coping skills and techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. Life transitions have led you to this point, and you are seeking therapy to assist you in healing and moving forward into the life you want to live. You long to thrive! I believe that each person carries the resources within themselves to create the life they envision. You will learn to access your inner resources to navigate life experiences and deepen your connection to Self.
(510) 768-7252 View (510) 768-7252
Photo of Michael Anthony Nevans, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Anthony Nevans
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822  (Online Only)
Mike has received training and is experienced in CBT, ACT, and Imago couple's therapy.
Mike likes to work with people who are ready to make changes in their life. They do not need to know exactly what that looks like or means yet, they just need to be sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. Mike enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar, and addiction issues. He also practices couple therapy and likes to offer premarital counseling, empowerment couple's counseling, and helping the healing process post infidelity or other ruptures in the relationship. Mike spent 4 years working with people in an international setting in Tokyo and enjoys providing therapy in a multicultural space.
Mike has received training and is experienced in CBT, ACT, and Imago couple's therapy.
Mike likes to work with people who are ready to make changes in their life. They do not need to know exactly what that looks like or means yet, they just need to be sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. Mike enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar, and addiction issues. He also practices couple therapy and likes to offer premarital counseling, empowerment couple's counseling, and helping the healing process post infidelity or other ruptures in the relationship. Mike spent 4 years working with people in an international setting in Tokyo and enjoys providing therapy in a multicultural space.
(925) 477-4985 View (925) 477-4985
Photo of Meredith Janson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith Janson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94707  (Online Only)
Do you ever wonder, “Maybe I picked the wrong partner?” Or worry that arguments are a red flag? Perhaps your relationship feels like too much work, and you imagine others have it easy. These are just stories we tell ourselves. Truth is, all struggles—entrenched conflict, areas of incompatibility, life transitions, limping along in your sex life—can bring you closer. The only essential ingredient is an openness to change. That’s where I come in, to coach you in building new ways of relating to each other, starting in the first session. As a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in relationship issues.
Do you ever wonder, “Maybe I picked the wrong partner?” Or worry that arguments are a red flag? Perhaps your relationship feels like too much work, and you imagine others have it easy. These are just stories we tell ourselves. Truth is, all struggles—entrenched conflict, areas of incompatibility, life transitions, limping along in your sex life—can bring you closer. The only essential ingredient is an openness to change. That’s where I come in, to coach you in building new ways of relating to each other, starting in the first session. As a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in relationship issues.
(510) 241-4689 View (510) 241-4689
Photo of Gigi Drummond, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gigi Drummond
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Davis, CA 95616
My approaches are (NLP)Neurolinguistic Programming, (SFBT)Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, (IT)Imago Therapy, (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (P P) Positive Psychology, Resilience, Spirituality, and Intuition.
Gigi M Drummond, LMFT. Mission: "Making the world a better place....one person at a time." Focus: Grief, Men's Issues, NLP, Couples Communication, Anger Management, Parenting, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Veterans, ADHD, Christian Counseling, Executive Coaching, Couples, Families, Individuals, Groups, Couples, and LGBTQIA. I work well with individuals who want to create permanent and lasting positive change. "When I change the way I look at things, the things I look at change."
My approaches are (NLP)Neurolinguistic Programming, (SFBT)Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, (IT)Imago Therapy, (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (P P) Positive Psychology, Resilience, Spirituality, and Intuition.
Gigi M Drummond, LMFT. Mission: "Making the world a better place....one person at a time." Focus: Grief, Men's Issues, NLP, Couples Communication, Anger Management, Parenting, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Veterans, ADHD, Christian Counseling, Executive Coaching, Couples, Families, Individuals, Groups, Couples, and LGBTQIA. I work well with individuals who want to create permanent and lasting positive change. "When I change the way I look at things, the things I look at change."
(530) 489-5681 View (530) 489-5681
Photo of Janet Greenwood, PhD, RN, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Greenwood
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, RN, MFT
Verified Verified
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
, Certified Imago Couples Therapist with a Ph.
I specialize in working with couples wanting to recover from a crisis. I offer over 30 years experience as a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, PhD, RN, Licensed marriage therapist. You can select either our 10 Hour Couples Program or the 5 hour private Intensive Couples Session. Prevent unnecessary divorce; change begins the first session. Increase emotional and physical intimacy and fall back in love with your partner.
, Certified Imago Couples Therapist with a Ph.
I specialize in working with couples wanting to recover from a crisis. I offer over 30 years experience as a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, PhD, RN, Licensed marriage therapist. You can select either our 10 Hour Couples Program or the 5 hour private Intensive Couples Session. Prevent unnecessary divorce; change begins the first session. Increase emotional and physical intimacy and fall back in love with your partner.
(916) 546-1518 View (916) 546-1518
Photo of Lindsey Larrimore, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lindsey Larrimore
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822
Now accepting online appointments! Having a trusted therapist in your corner can make a huge difference in your well-being and overall quality of life. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma related to relationship conflicts, family issues, and life transitions. I also work with families and couples using Gottman and Imago techniques to improve communication and strengthen bonds. I look forward to providing a tailored approach and a nurturing space to help you heal the past, reclaim your present, and envision your brighter, healthier future.
Now accepting online appointments! Having a trusted therapist in your corner can make a huge difference in your well-being and overall quality of life. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma related to relationship conflicts, family issues, and life transitions. I also work with families and couples using Gottman and Imago techniques to improve communication and strengthen bonds. I look forward to providing a tailored approach and a nurturing space to help you heal the past, reclaim your present, and envision your brighter, healthier future.
(916) 587-4574 View (916) 587-4574
Photo of Matt Gomes, MA, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matt Gomes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist and specialize in helping couples learn how to clearly communicate in a way that deepens the love and connection you have for each other - even through the hard times.
You might not believe it now, but YOU have the answers to your problems within you. Together we can discover your own inner resources to tackle ANY problem, create your health story, develop joyful and fulfilling relationships, turn family discord into harmony, and learn to deal with difficult people. I find results-focused therapy based on a client-centered philosophy to be truly effective and can help you achieve your life goals with the least resistance.
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist and specialize in helping couples learn how to clearly communicate in a way that deepens the love and connection you have for each other - even through the hard times.
You might not believe it now, but YOU have the answers to your problems within you. Together we can discover your own inner resources to tackle ANY problem, create your health story, develop joyful and fulfilling relationships, turn family discord into harmony, and learn to deal with difficult people. I find results-focused therapy based on a client-centered philosophy to be truly effective and can help you achieve your life goals with the least resistance.
(925) 308-5305 View (925) 308-5305
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
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 Mary Kennard, BA, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Kennard
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I bring to my practice studies in: Bowen family systems, Bader/Pearson couples Tx training, Gottman's Theory/therapy and Hendrix Imago Therapy for Couples approaches, as well as Somatic Experiencing, ACT, and Brainspotting.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of personal issues helping them to move from discord to harmony on goals of their choice.I find that everyone has a story to tell and believe that I am very attuned at helping clarify the impact our stories have in our lives. It is my belief that each person has hidden strengths that may have been weakened by life events. I have experience working with all ages, and stages of life; with individuals, couples, and families.With this experience I have developed a great empathy and understanding of those in distress.
I bring to my practice studies in: Bowen family systems, Bader/Pearson couples Tx training, Gottman's Theory/therapy and Hendrix Imago Therapy for Couples approaches, as well as Somatic Experiencing, ACT, and Brainspotting.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of personal issues helping them to move from discord to harmony on goals of their choice.I find that everyone has a story to tell and believe that I am very attuned at helping clarify the impact our stories have in our lives. It is my belief that each person has hidden strengths that may have been weakened by life events. I have experience working with all ages, and stages of life; with individuals, couples, and families.With this experience I have developed a great empathy and understanding of those in distress.
(925) 400-7634 View (925) 400-7634
Photo of Destiny Conde, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Destiny Conde
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I hope to support you in your wellness and healing journey. Part of the journey is making the connection between your mind, body, and soul. With guidance, we can allow ourselves to tap in and sit with our emotions. This provides the opportunity to feel, process, and heal. I invite you to join me as I provide a compassionate space to help increase and strengthen your insight into how your lived experiences affect your life and patterns.
I hope to support you in your wellness and healing journey. Part of the journey is making the connection between your mind, body, and soul. With guidance, we can allow ourselves to tap in and sit with our emotions. This provides the opportunity to feel, process, and heal. I invite you to join me as I provide a compassionate space to help increase and strengthen your insight into how your lived experiences affect your life and patterns.
(760) 492-7981 View (760) 492-7981
Photo of Alice Rodriguez, LPPC, CADCII, MBA, MS
Alice Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPPC, CADCII, MBA, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Life experiences challenging? Anxiety, stress, and trauma can complicate our lives. My goal is to help you identify and heal from issues past and present that prevents you from living your best life (including trauma, addiction, and depression). In addition to CBT, I have specialized training in trauma treatment known as Brainspotting, a powerful, cutting-edge treatment modality, it goes deep and quick. I am a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADCII). I am Certified in Brainspotting. I work with first responders, veterans, and fire survivors. I also provide immigration evaluations..
Life experiences challenging? Anxiety, stress, and trauma can complicate our lives. My goal is to help you identify and heal from issues past and present that prevents you from living your best life (including trauma, addiction, and depression). In addition to CBT, I have specialized training in trauma treatment known as Brainspotting, a powerful, cutting-edge treatment modality, it goes deep and quick. I am a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADCII). I am Certified in Brainspotting. I work with first responders, veterans, and fire survivors. I also provide immigration evaluations..
(916) 739-2310 View (916) 739-2310

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.