Imago Therapists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

Photo of Beverly Jean Scott - Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor, BS, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I am a certified Imago Therapist which is world renowned.
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
I am a certified Imago Therapist which is world renowned.
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
(424) 789-8455 View (424) 789-8455
Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP, Psychologist
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863
Photo of Jill M Wussler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill M Wussler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
As we travel this journey of life, sometimes the way to health and wholeness is not too clear. During these times, it's helpful to have a partner to walk with you. I have been in practice for nearly twenty years, helping individuals, families, couples and groups facing a wide variety of challenges. I treat individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, job-related issues, grief, and religious trauma. I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma, both single incident and long-term.
As we travel this journey of life, sometimes the way to health and wholeness is not too clear. During these times, it's helpful to have a partner to walk with you. I have been in practice for nearly twenty years, helping individuals, families, couples and groups facing a wide variety of challenges. I treat individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, job-related issues, grief, and religious trauma. I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma, both single incident and long-term.
(310) 910-9978 View (310) 910-9978
Photo of Araceli Pimentel, MSW, ACSW
Araceli Pimentel
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings, build effective communication, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and marital/pre-marital issues.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings, build effective communication, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and marital/pre-marital issues.
(626) 269-6747 View (626) 269-6747

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dawn Therese Dominguez - Windows of Hope Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Windows of Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry techniques along with Imago dialogue practices helping clients create the life they have always hoped for in a safe environment.
Welcome! We offer individual, couples and family counseling in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life experiences in a nurturing and loving way, and assist your process offering compassionate communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult life situations. We specialize in couples counseling, grief counseling, blended family counseling, anger management counseling, substance abuse counseling, depression counseling, anxiety counseling, self improvement counseling & personal growth counseling. We offer a safe space for you to share and heal!
Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry techniques along with Imago dialogue practices helping clients create the life they have always hoped for in a safe environment.
Welcome! We offer individual, couples and family counseling in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life experiences in a nurturing and loving way, and assist your process offering compassionate communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult life situations. We specialize in couples counseling, grief counseling, blended family counseling, anger management counseling, substance abuse counseling, depression counseling, anxiety counseling, self improvement counseling & personal growth counseling. We offer a safe space for you to share and heal!
(310) 928-2319 View (310) 928-2319
Photo of Marie Newson, MA, MFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marie Newson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, RYT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501  (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 Dawn Therese Dominguez, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn Therese Dominguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry techniques along with Imago dialogue practices helping clients create the life they have always hoped for in a safe environment.
Welcome! I offer individual, couples and family counseling is offered in a warm and comfortable environment! I help individuals and couples work through difficult life experiences in a nurturing and loving way, and assist your process offering compassionate communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult life situations. I specialize in couples counseling, grief counseling, blended family counseling, anger management counseling, substance abuse counseling, depression counseling, anxiety counseling, self improvement counseling & personal growth counseling. I offer a safe space for you to share and heal.
Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry techniques along with Imago dialogue practices helping clients create the life they have always hoped for in a safe environment.
Welcome! I offer individual, couples and family counseling is offered in a warm and comfortable environment! I help individuals and couples work through difficult life experiences in a nurturing and loving way, and assist your process offering compassionate communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult life situations. I specialize in couples counseling, grief counseling, blended family counseling, anger management counseling, substance abuse counseling, depression counseling, anxiety counseling, self improvement counseling & personal growth counseling. I offer a safe space for you to share and heal.
(760) 334-5580 View (760) 334-5580
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90745
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 Cathy Chambliss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Chambliss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I use John Gottman's work , Imago, and Positive Psychology to help you or you and your partner improve your relationship.
Are you married or in a relationship and struggling to get along, communicate or feel close to your partner? Believe it or not, there are skills that couples need to learn to manage their relationship in a healthy way and feel close. Many couples end up putting their relationship at the bottom of the priorities because of busy work schedules, raising children and managing life. Happy, healthy relationships take work and effort. I teach couples how to get "unstuck" in their dynamics to create more connection, intimacy and fun. I also work with couples dealing with the trauma of infidelity and how to work through the pain and sadness.
I use John Gottman's work , Imago, and Positive Psychology to help you or you and your partner improve your relationship.
Are you married or in a relationship and struggling to get along, communicate or feel close to your partner? Believe it or not, there are skills that couples need to learn to manage their relationship in a healthy way and feel close. Many couples end up putting their relationship at the bottom of the priorities because of busy work schedules, raising children and managing life. Happy, healthy relationships take work and effort. I teach couples how to get "unstuck" in their dynamics to create more connection, intimacy and fun. I also work with couples dealing with the trauma of infidelity and how to work through the pain and sadness.
(424) 667-6488 View (424) 667-6488
Photo of Brandy Mills, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brandy Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Are you seeking stronger connections and effective communication with someone you love? Are you yearning for understanding? Do you desire emotional intimacy? Do you aspire to overcome challenges with your signifiant other? Does your child or you need some extra support through a life transition? I am passionate about helping individuals and couples attain harmonious relationships by fostering awareness, growth, and resilience. My life’s work is helping humans do life in a way that’s more fulfilling and less stressful. It is an honor to walk alongside people on their journey towards lasting happiness. Reach out and let’s talk!
Are you seeking stronger connections and effective communication with someone you love? Are you yearning for understanding? Do you desire emotional intimacy? Do you aspire to overcome challenges with your signifiant other? Does your child or you need some extra support through a life transition? I am passionate about helping individuals and couples attain harmonious relationships by fostering awareness, growth, and resilience. My life’s work is helping humans do life in a way that’s more fulfilling and less stressful. It is an honor to walk alongside people on their journey towards lasting happiness. Reach out and let’s talk!
(310) 388-9504 View (310) 388-9504
Photo of Nora Taylor, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Nora Taylor
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
If you're struggling with marital/relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a traumatic experience(s), I'm here to help. I also provide therapy for those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. As a psychologist, I embrace the traditional values of developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with clients. The relationship I build is my priority and the primary means to help you feel better. Together, we'll help you develop greater self-awareness and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
If you're struggling with marital/relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a traumatic experience(s), I'm here to help. I also provide therapy for those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. As a psychologist, I embrace the traditional values of developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with clients. The relationship I build is my priority and the primary means to help you feel better. Together, we'll help you develop greater self-awareness and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
(424) 227-5512 View (424) 227-5512
Photo of Leila Martinez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leila Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Pedro, CA 90731
I look forward to each session and to discovery of your personal strengths, new ways to cope with change and to change when that is what is needed. Together we find hope and optimism, working to turn courage into comfort. We are all capable of making our lives better, fulfilling, of surviving and thriving. Experiences that I bring to our time together are work as an educator, and a long time musician. I am experienced and trained for couples therapy, trauma, depression, sadness, anxiety, tension, relationship problems, divorce, job stress, management of strong emotions, self-doubt, social shyness, addiction.
I look forward to each session and to discovery of your personal strengths, new ways to cope with change and to change when that is what is needed. Together we find hope and optimism, working to turn courage into comfort. We are all capable of making our lives better, fulfilling, of surviving and thriving. Experiences that I bring to our time together are work as an educator, and a long time musician. I am experienced and trained for couples therapy, trauma, depression, sadness, anxiety, tension, relationship problems, divorce, job stress, management of strong emotions, self-doubt, social shyness, addiction.
(424) 533-7967 View (424) 533-7967
Photo of Haylee R Duran, MS, LMFT, CEAP, ERPSCC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Haylee R Duran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEAP, ERPSCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Life Comes in Waves, Let's Learn to Ride Them! Sometimes in the waves of change, We find our true direction. Life events and stress can leave us with emotional wounds. We then try to heal these wounds with harmful methods that make us feel better for the time being but hurt us later. Therapy can be your safe space to heal. It may sting or hurt to clean out at first. However, the gains you will receive from doing so will be beneficial for your well-being, your relationships, and your future. I will be by your side guiding you through the process at a pace that fits you.
Life Comes in Waves, Let's Learn to Ride Them! Sometimes in the waves of change, We find our true direction. Life events and stress can leave us with emotional wounds. We then try to heal these wounds with harmful methods that make us feel better for the time being but hurt us later. Therapy can be your safe space to heal. It may sting or hurt to clean out at first. However, the gains you will receive from doing so will be beneficial for your well-being, your relationships, and your future. I will be by your side guiding you through the process at a pace that fits you.
(310) 362-9633 View (310) 362-9633
Photo of Francyne Foxman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Francyne Foxman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I received my B.A. in Psychology from U.C., Berkeley & my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I hold a Certification in Dual Diagnosis from U.C., Los Angeles & am skilled in counseling clients dealing with addictions as well as emotional challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, grief & loss). I am proficient in treating persons & families dealing with divorce, separation, custody and court issues. I have provided supervision to Marriage & Family Therapy Trainees and Interns. In-home psychotherapy available, upon request. A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) provided upon request.
I received my B.A. in Psychology from U.C., Berkeley & my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I hold a Certification in Dual Diagnosis from U.C., Los Angeles & am skilled in counseling clients dealing with addictions as well as emotional challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, grief & loss). I am proficient in treating persons & families dealing with divorce, separation, custody and court issues. I have provided supervision to Marriage & Family Therapy Trainees and Interns. In-home psychotherapy available, upon request. A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) provided upon request.
(310) 226-8437 View (310) 226-8437
Photo of Brandy Alexandria Harris - Harris Family Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harris Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
Choosing the right therapist is a fundamental part of not only ensuring your therapeutic needs are met but also lays the foundation so that you are able to achieve your goals of obtaining a more balanced emotional state of being. I believe in assisting my clients in identifying their goals, while exploring healthy strategies they can utilize in achieving these goals. Personal growth and happiness is a goal that is unique to each individual and utilizing multiple strategies assist clients in obtaining a healthier sense of self through awareness and insight.
Choosing the right therapist is a fundamental part of not only ensuring your therapeutic needs are met but also lays the foundation so that you are able to achieve your goals of obtaining a more balanced emotional state of being. I believe in assisting my clients in identifying their goals, while exploring healthy strategies they can utilize in achieving these goals. Personal growth and happiness is a goal that is unique to each individual and utilizing multiple strategies assist clients in obtaining a healthier sense of self through awareness and insight.
(323) 894-0325 View (323) 894-0325
Photo of Magda S. Herrera - Magda Herrera Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Magda Herrera Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Hi, I'm Magda! As a culturally-sensitive Latina therapist, I am passionate about helping you better understand yourself and overcome any internal barriers that may be holding you back. Life can feel overwhelming at times, but in this space, you'll learn to shift your perspective, making challenges and life feel more manageable. Together, we'll explore what is going on inside...any areas of concerns and goals you'd like to meet. We will uncover your strengths and bring awareness to all that is possible for you. I work with adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
Hi, I'm Magda! As a culturally-sensitive Latina therapist, I am passionate about helping you better understand yourself and overcome any internal barriers that may be holding you back. Life can feel overwhelming at times, but in this space, you'll learn to shift your perspective, making challenges and life feel more manageable. Together, we'll explore what is going on inside...any areas of concerns and goals you'd like to meet. We will uncover your strengths and bring awareness to all that is possible for you. I work with adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
(310) 905-5431 View (310) 905-5431
Photo of Paige Asawa, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige Asawa
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Hello! Thank you for taking a moment to read this. No matter what difficulties you are struggling with, you have the ability to overcome them - loss, anxiety, sadness, or major life changes - you have everything you need to transform these into positive growth, the goal is to tap your innate potential together! Starting the journey can be scary but once you take the first step it can be the start of a new way of life. No matter if it is short term therapy to help you get through a rough patch or longer term process, my approach is client centered so we will set goals and work through it together.
Hello! Thank you for taking a moment to read this. No matter what difficulties you are struggling with, you have the ability to overcome them - loss, anxiety, sadness, or major life changes - you have everything you need to transform these into positive growth, the goal is to tap your innate potential together! Starting the journey can be scary but once you take the first step it can be the start of a new way of life. No matter if it is short term therapy to help you get through a rough patch or longer term process, my approach is client centered so we will set goals and work through it together.
(310) 881-8406 View (310) 881-8406
Photo of Elizabeth (Betsy) McBride, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth (Betsy) McBride
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274  (Online Only)
We all want to feel good about ourselves. We want positive healthy relationships and live our lives as fully as possible. But sometimes life or relationships can become difficult and overwhelming. People come to therapy because they want to feel better. I respect the courage it takes to reach out for help in seeking a greater understanding of yourself and to work toward personal growth. My role as a therapist is to help you overcome the obstacles keeping you from feeling the way you want and from fully enjoying your life.
We all want to feel good about ourselves. We want positive healthy relationships and live our lives as fully as possible. But sometimes life or relationships can become difficult and overwhelming. People come to therapy because they want to feel better. I respect the courage it takes to reach out for help in seeking a greater understanding of yourself and to work toward personal growth. My role as a therapist is to help you overcome the obstacles keeping you from feeling the way you want and from fully enjoying your life.
(424) 342-5898 View (424) 342-5898
Photo of Niki C Payne, MA, AMFT, CCHT, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Niki C Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CCHT, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Waitlist for new clients
You are so over it—the mental anguish, the emotional distress, the sleepless nights, the loneliness. All you want is to be happy, but sometimes it feels like the powers that be are conspiring against you. You’ve tried everything, but nothing seems to work. You feel sick, tired, and burned out, but deep down you know there has to be another way. You've reached a crossroad that has opened up a willingness to do something different - something you haven't tried before or perhaps something you never really went all in with before now. This is your chance to do something different to enhance the quality of your life and relationships.
You are so over it—the mental anguish, the emotional distress, the sleepless nights, the loneliness. All you want is to be happy, but sometimes it feels like the powers that be are conspiring against you. You’ve tried everything, but nothing seems to work. You feel sick, tired, and burned out, but deep down you know there has to be another way. You've reached a crossroad that has opened up a willingness to do something different - something you haven't tried before or perhaps something you never really went all in with before now. This is your chance to do something different to enhance the quality of your life and relationships.
(424) 378-5417 View (424) 378-5417
Photo of Clinton Scheidt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clinton Scheidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
I’ve always had a passion for helping queer folx get through the challenges that come with being queer-identified in a heteronormative society. My mission is to create a safe, warm, nonjudgmental setting for queer folx and allies to address the struggles that life has served up. Whether you need coping skills to improve daily functioning, want to gain insight into deeper issues, desire more security in your relationship, or require relief from sexual troubles, my focus is on you and your intentions. Therapy is not an easy road, but I intend to travel with you on the journey, no matter how difficult.
I’ve always had a passion for helping queer folx get through the challenges that come with being queer-identified in a heteronormative society. My mission is to create a safe, warm, nonjudgmental setting for queer folx and allies to address the struggles that life has served up. Whether you need coping skills to improve daily functioning, want to gain insight into deeper issues, desire more security in your relationship, or require relief from sexual troubles, my focus is on you and your intentions. Therapy is not an easy road, but I intend to travel with you on the journey, no matter how difficult.
(424) 339-0508 View (424) 339-0508

See more therapy options for Rancho Palos Verdes

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.