Imago Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Dr. Joanna Renee Fassl, Joanna Fassl, LMFT, DC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Joanna Renee Fassl
Marriage & Family Therapist, Joanna Fassl, LMFT, DC, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
I am trained in Couples and Sex Therapy utilizing EFT and Imago Dialogue.
My clients are looking for a different type of therapy. They wish for a more enlivened and interactive approach that engages beyond words and captures the heart of one's struggle and yearning to break free. My clients oftentimes feel lost, plagued with chronic anxiety, depression or anger, and stuck in a rigidified experience of themselves. They toggle between a tired set of coping mechanisms; and the fear and distrust of branching out into the new. My work cradles the middle: lovingly chipping away at the hardened barriers while welcoming in steady, free, authentic expression. All held in grace and awe for this precious life.
I am trained in Couples and Sex Therapy utilizing EFT and Imago Dialogue.
My clients are looking for a different type of therapy. They wish for a more enlivened and interactive approach that engages beyond words and captures the heart of one's struggle and yearning to break free. My clients oftentimes feel lost, plagued with chronic anxiety, depression or anger, and stuck in a rigidified experience of themselves. They toggle between a tired set of coping mechanisms; and the fear and distrust of branching out into the new. My work cradles the middle: lovingly chipping away at the hardened barriers while welcoming in steady, free, authentic expression. All held in grace and awe for this precious life.
(415) 484-3881 View (415) 484-3881
Photo of Gillian Nathan, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gillian Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I integrate numerous approaches, including Imago, Hoffman Process, Depth Hypnosis, visualizations and communication techniques, as well as drawing on my decades of yoga and mindfulness practice.
Are you ready to invite ease, joy and connection into your life? To let go of old pain and live more fully in the present? My office is a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration, healing, and change. Together we address challenges by identifying current strengths and resources and adding new tools and resources. By developing more balance in your emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of self, this holistic approach helps you find greater peace and fulfillment in your life and relationships.
I integrate numerous approaches, including Imago, Hoffman Process, Depth Hypnosis, visualizations and communication techniques, as well as drawing on my decades of yoga and mindfulness practice.
Are you ready to invite ease, joy and connection into your life? To let go of old pain and live more fully in the present? My office is a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration, healing, and change. Together we address challenges by identifying current strengths and resources and adding new tools and resources. By developing more balance in your emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of self, this holistic approach helps you find greater peace and fulfillment in your life and relationships.
(415) 726-2811 View (415) 726-2811
Photo of Larisa Southerland, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Larisa Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
I primarily use Imago Relationship Therapy to help repair relational ruptures, rebuild trust, and develop effective ways of communicating that soon become second nature.
Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
I primarily use Imago Relationship Therapy to help repair relational ruptures, rebuild trust, and develop effective ways of communicating that soon become second nature.
Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
(323) 894-0768 View (323) 894-0768
Photo of Michele O'Mara, LCSW, PhD, IMAGO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele O'Mara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, IMAGO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I'm Certified in Imago and Discernment, trained on all 3 Levels of Gottman Method, and have EFT training.
Couple's counseling and sexual health is my passion. Infidelity, cheating, and emotional affairs. Lack of sexual desire. Communication, loss of connection, and healing old hurts and resentments are common issues addressed in my practice. I'd love to meet you (I do see individuals), or you and your partner (same-sex couples, heterosexual couples, polyamorous couples). You can schedule with me directly online from my webpage: micheleomara.com
I'm Certified in Imago and Discernment, trained on all 3 Levels of Gottman Method, and have EFT training.
Couple's counseling and sexual health is my passion. Infidelity, cheating, and emotional affairs. Lack of sexual desire. Communication, loss of connection, and healing old hurts and resentments are common issues addressed in my practice. I'd love to meet you (I do see individuals), or you and your partner (same-sex couples, heterosexual couples, polyamorous couples). You can schedule with me directly online from my webpage: micheleomara.com
(317) 207-2795 View (317) 207-2795
Photo of David J Kest, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David J Kest
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
Waitlist for new clients
A certified Imago Relationship Therapist in SF and Marin Teaching couples the "Art of Dialogue" .
I offer an "Integrated Approach to Psychotherapy" for adults, couples and families. We may first seek to reduce negative symptoms and increase stability in our life, but eventually I support and challenge my clients to graduate from "surviving to truly "thriving" in all major aspects of their life. Relationships have shaped and influenced who we are and many clients appreciate help with essential relationship skills. I am one of the few therapists in Marin and SF actually certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and have had the honor to assist the cofounders many times with their weekend workshops. on the West Coast.
A certified Imago Relationship Therapist in SF and Marin Teaching couples the "Art of Dialogue" .
I offer an "Integrated Approach to Psychotherapy" for adults, couples and families. We may first seek to reduce negative symptoms and increase stability in our life, but eventually I support and challenge my clients to graduate from "surviving to truly "thriving" in all major aspects of their life. Relationships have shaped and influenced who we are and many clients appreciate help with essential relationship skills. I am one of the few therapists in Marin and SF actually certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and have had the honor to assist the cofounders many times with their weekend workshops. on the West Coast.
(650) 924-9677 View (650) 924-9677
Photo of Hannah-Leigh Bull, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah-Leigh Bull
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
Waitlist for new clients
Basic non-violent communication techniques, Imago intentional dialog, and solutions orientation improve understanding and intimacy in relationships.
Do you seek greater influence over life? Have people and experiences clouded your vision of meaningful life participation? My collaborative approach to therapy respects you as ultimate authority in your life and the one who knows yourself best; you can integrate holistic well-being, on physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and ethical areas of life. You can work to resolve trauma and unrest from depression, anxiety, and anger. Trauma resolution, couple and familial relationships, codependency, compromised attachment, destructive narcissism, and harassment are areas of focus in my practice.
Basic non-violent communication techniques, Imago intentional dialog, and solutions orientation improve understanding and intimacy in relationships.
Do you seek greater influence over life? Have people and experiences clouded your vision of meaningful life participation? My collaborative approach to therapy respects you as ultimate authority in your life and the one who knows yourself best; you can integrate holistic well-being, on physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and ethical areas of life. You can work to resolve trauma and unrest from depression, anxiety, and anger. Trauma resolution, couple and familial relationships, codependency, compromised attachment, destructive narcissism, and harassment are areas of focus in my practice.
(707) 314-5440 View (707) 314-5440
Photo of Maya Attia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maya Attia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
My approach is relational and experiential, blending modalities like Imago, emotion-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Relationships are like a dance. You may be swaying to an old choreography, stepping on each other’s toes, or missing the love you had when you started moving together. You might be fighting constantly, carrying past wounds, or floundering after an affair. Maybe you are experiencing sex issues, money problems, or overwhelming emotions that impact your ability to connect and meet your needs. You long for a fulfilling bond where you are both seen and supported. You want to work as a team to communicate effectively, ease conflict, and rebuild. And you want to feel better in your own skin so you can show up for yourself and one another.
My approach is relational and experiential, blending modalities like Imago, emotion-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Relationships are like a dance. You may be swaying to an old choreography, stepping on each other’s toes, or missing the love you had when you started moving together. You might be fighting constantly, carrying past wounds, or floundering after an affair. Maybe you are experiencing sex issues, money problems, or overwhelming emotions that impact your ability to connect and meet your needs. You long for a fulfilling bond where you are both seen and supported. You want to work as a team to communicate effectively, ease conflict, and rebuild. And you want to feel better in your own skin so you can show up for yourself and one another.
(949) 806-5592 View (949) 806-5592
Photo of Patricia Cunningham - Welcoming Joy Counseling , MS, MTS, MA, MSc, LLPC
Welcoming Joy Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, MTS, MA, MSc, LLPC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Love is the greatest source of joy, and can be the greatest source of suffering. If you and your partner are currently struggling, I may be able to help. I’m Trish Cunningham, a licensed therapist, and the veteran of a 40-year marriage. Chances are whatever you are going through, I've been there. In addition, I am trained to help you in the major schools of couples counseling- Gottman, Imago, Emotion Focused, and Prepare and Enrich. I also work with couples who are just starting out. Whatever the stage of your relationship, I can help.
Love is the greatest source of joy, and can be the greatest source of suffering. If you and your partner are currently struggling, I may be able to help. I’m Trish Cunningham, a licensed therapist, and the veteran of a 40-year marriage. Chances are whatever you are going through, I've been there. In addition, I am trained to help you in the major schools of couples counseling- Gottman, Imago, Emotion Focused, and Prepare and Enrich. I also work with couples who are just starting out. Whatever the stage of your relationship, I can help.
(408) 414-6122 View (408) 414-6122
Photo of Sobia Saleem Psychotherapist, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sobia Saleem Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, Imago, Attachment, & Gottman therapy to empower you.
Accepting New Clients! Are you a trans, non-binary, or poly person looking for a therapist who understands & reflects your identity? Are you a newly diagnosed neurodivergent or neuroqueer adult? Are you chronically ill and tired of educating your therapists about your medical conditions? Are you a queer Muslim seeking a therapist who's familiar with both your background & queerness? If so, I want to work with you on your unique challenges, like navigating your transition, exploring sexual dynamics with partner(s), dealing with a new diagnosis, and/or needing an HRT or GAS (surgery) letter. Therapy should cater to you and your needs.
I use EMDR, Imago, Attachment, & Gottman therapy to empower you.
Accepting New Clients! Are you a trans, non-binary, or poly person looking for a therapist who understands & reflects your identity? Are you a newly diagnosed neurodivergent or neuroqueer adult? Are you chronically ill and tired of educating your therapists about your medical conditions? Are you a queer Muslim seeking a therapist who's familiar with both your background & queerness? If so, I want to work with you on your unique challenges, like navigating your transition, exploring sexual dynamics with partner(s), dealing with a new diagnosis, and/or needing an HRT or GAS (surgery) letter. Therapy should cater to you and your needs.
(657) 286-7337 View (657) 286-7337
Photo of Dr. Norman Hering, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Norman Hering
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
My work with couples is grounded in Imago Relationship Therapy.
Thank you for reading! I imagine you are here because you are searching for something; an answer to your pain and suffering. People don't typically come to therapy because all is well; they are looking for relief from the pain. We will sit together in that pain because pain shared is pain decreased. And then we begin to take action to feel more in control of our lives. Taking action is the perfect antidote to that crippling sense of powerlessness. Yes, there are many things we can't control; we identify them and let them go. And, there are many things we can control, primarily through a change in perspective.
My work with couples is grounded in Imago Relationship Therapy.
Thank you for reading! I imagine you are here because you are searching for something; an answer to your pain and suffering. People don't typically come to therapy because all is well; they are looking for relief from the pain. We will sit together in that pain because pain shared is pain decreased. And then we begin to take action to feel more in control of our lives. Taking action is the perfect antidote to that crippling sense of powerlessness. Yes, there are many things we can't control; we identify them and let them go. And, there are many things we can control, primarily through a change in perspective.
(415) 366-2357 View (415) 366-2357
Photo of Genevieve Gonzales Lcsw Rapid Resolution Therapy, LCSW, MSW, PPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Genevieve Gonzales Lcsw Rapid Resolution Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PPS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
I incorporate clinical nutrition & Holistic Mental Health in my practice and offer Couples Therapy using IMAGO & RRT perspectives.
I facilitate meaningful transformations for individuals & couples who have been suffering from many various challenges such as sexual trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, & depression. Using Rapid Resolution Therapy created by Dr. Jon Connelly & Holistic nutritional practices I address issues at their root cause to generate results quickly & in each session. The techniques utilized during our session are painless, interesting & many people even say fun, so healing and beneficial shifts in your mind & body can occur effortlessly and automatically. I have been told that "it felt like a dark cloud lifted" after just 1 session.
I incorporate clinical nutrition & Holistic Mental Health in my practice and offer Couples Therapy using IMAGO & RRT perspectives.
I facilitate meaningful transformations for individuals & couples who have been suffering from many various challenges such as sexual trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, & depression. Using Rapid Resolution Therapy created by Dr. Jon Connelly & Holistic nutritional practices I address issues at their root cause to generate results quickly & in each session. The techniques utilized during our session are painless, interesting & many people even say fun, so healing and beneficial shifts in your mind & body can occur effortlessly and automatically. I have been told that "it felt like a dark cloud lifted" after just 1 session.
(858) 258-5738 View (858) 258-5738
Photo of Debbie Cherry Lmft - Couples Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie Cherry Lmft - Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
Remember when it felt like your partner got you better than anyone? It felt so good to be SEEN. Now, small disagreements turn into big arguments. Sometimes you don’t even know what you’re fighting about, but you keep ending up in the same painful patterns. Don’t let your defenses stand between you and your partner. If you would like support getting back on the same page, email me to book a free call.
Remember when it felt like your partner got you better than anyone? It felt so good to be SEEN. Now, small disagreements turn into big arguments. Sometimes you don’t even know what you’re fighting about, but you keep ending up in the same painful patterns. Don’t let your defenses stand between you and your partner. If you would like support getting back on the same page, email me to book a free call.
(415) 729-2128 View (415) 729-2128
Photo of Rebekah B. Tinker, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah B. Tinker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117
I believe the therapeutic relationship is built from trust and sincerity. My hope is to hold space for a genuine connection that fosters dynamic self reflection. Looking deeper into the layers of experience that inform our internal gaze and external lens, and what we intrinsically value and believe. Whether you are looking to unravel patterns of codependency, improve communication with your partner(s), or navigate through body shame and disordered eating, I see opportunity for clarity and resolve.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is built from trust and sincerity. My hope is to hold space for a genuine connection that fosters dynamic self reflection. Looking deeper into the layers of experience that inform our internal gaze and external lens, and what we intrinsically value and believe. Whether you are looking to unravel patterns of codependency, improve communication with your partner(s), or navigate through body shame and disordered eating, I see opportunity for clarity and resolve.
(415) 534-4113 View (415) 534-4113
Photo of Sara Okman, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Okman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Many relationships have faced challenges over the past few years. You might be feeling stuck, or struggling to resolve differences with your partner. As a certified AASECT sex therapist & long time couples counselor, I help identify& understand what lies beneath these stuck places, building true relational safety. Using easy to implement tools for healthy communication, I help couples negotiate desire discrepancy, find creative solutions for low-sexual marriages, and navigate the impact of extra-marital relationships: including infidelity repair, polyamory, & consensual non-monogamy. I am kink aware & LGBTQ+ friendly.
Many relationships have faced challenges over the past few years. You might be feeling stuck, or struggling to resolve differences with your partner. As a certified AASECT sex therapist & long time couples counselor, I help identify& understand what lies beneath these stuck places, building true relational safety. Using easy to implement tools for healthy communication, I help couples negotiate desire discrepancy, find creative solutions for low-sexual marriages, and navigate the impact of extra-marital relationships: including infidelity repair, polyamory, & consensual non-monogamy. I am kink aware & LGBTQ+ friendly.
(415) 877-4147 View (415) 877-4147
Photo of Gwendolyn Evans, PhD, Psychologist
Gwendolyn Evans
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Are you anxious or depressed? Struggling with emotional or physical infidelity? Has the passion died in your relationship? Do you want more sex and intimacy? Feeling overwhelmed and undervalued by your partner? Are you lonely in your marriage? Are you struggling with racial or cross-cultural issues? Tired of the same fights with your spouse, your family, your boss, your kids?
Are you anxious or depressed? Struggling with emotional or physical infidelity? Has the passion died in your relationship? Do you want more sex and intimacy? Feeling overwhelmed and undervalued by your partner? Are you lonely in your marriage? Are you struggling with racial or cross-cultural issues? Tired of the same fights with your spouse, your family, your boss, your kids?
(415) 799-7968 View (415) 799-7968
Photo of Helen Grey - Bay Area Gestalt Institute, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bay Area Gestalt Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
16 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108
We are Bay Area Gestalt Institute (BAGI), a non-profit collective of highly trained marriage and family therapists and associates, providing affordable psychotherapy throughout the Bay Area. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, families, and children. Our work is active, creative and holistic. Our therapists work with a variety of issues including: * Relationship Issues * Anxiety * Depression * LGBTQI Concerns * Trauma * Substance Use / Abuse * Eating Disorders * Spiritual * Personal Growth * Integration of Non-Ordinary States
We are Bay Area Gestalt Institute (BAGI), a non-profit collective of highly trained marriage and family therapists and associates, providing affordable psychotherapy throughout the Bay Area. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, families, and children. Our work is active, creative and holistic. Our therapists work with a variety of issues including: * Relationship Issues * Anxiety * Depression * LGBTQI Concerns * Trauma * Substance Use / Abuse * Eating Disorders * Spiritual * Personal Growth * Integration of Non-Ordinary States
(415) 969-3361 View (415) 969-3361
Photo of J. C. Chance, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
J. C. Chance
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Becoming our most alive and authentic self is the goal of psychotherapy. If you are like many of the people that I work with, you have felt that being yourself wasn't accepted or valued in relationships, your family, or the world in general. In therapy, you have the opportunity to non-judgmentally challenge and change these learned beliefs and grow into your true self. I am especially interested in working with couples, relationship problems, anxiety, trauma, sex and sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Becoming our most alive and authentic self is the goal of psychotherapy. If you are like many of the people that I work with, you have felt that being yourself wasn't accepted or valued in relationships, your family, or the world in general. In therapy, you have the opportunity to non-judgmentally challenge and change these learned beliefs and grow into your true self. I am especially interested in working with couples, relationship problems, anxiety, trauma, sex and sexuality, and LGBTQ.
(415) 787-4872 View (415) 787-4872
Photo of Lizette G Martinez, ACSW
Lizette G Martinez
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
You want to feel seen, understood, and validated in your experience. You want a life that’s more fulfilling. Maybe your past experiences are getting in your way and you’re feeling ready to finally work through them... and maybe even learn to use them as opportunities to grow. Maybe you’re tired of feeling disconnected and lost. Maybe you’re: -Feeling numb to the world around you. -Trying to thrive but feeling burned out. -Feeling down, anxious, overwhelmed, or not like yourself. -Struggling to figure out how to move forward from your past.
You want to feel seen, understood, and validated in your experience. You want a life that’s more fulfilling. Maybe your past experiences are getting in your way and you’re feeling ready to finally work through them... and maybe even learn to use them as opportunities to grow. Maybe you’re tired of feeling disconnected and lost. Maybe you’re: -Feeling numb to the world around you. -Trying to thrive but feeling burned out. -Feeling down, anxious, overwhelmed, or not like yourself. -Struggling to figure out how to move forward from your past.
(415) 881-5711 View (415) 881-5711
Photo of Gregg Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gregg Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Book with me now through my website with Headway. Therapy is a pathway to healing through self discovery & acceptance. We carry parts of life with us only allowing experiences to inform our sense of self (confidence), our place in the world, & whether positive experiences are meant for us. It's easy to fall into a place of negativity, blaming & criticizing ourselves for something we didn't create, yet we perpetuate it. Allow therapy with me to help explore, realize, & accept your "best self" & to realize the power to shift your life experience by changing thoughts about it. Your truth lies within you, not in what others tell you.
Book with me now through my website with Headway. Therapy is a pathway to healing through self discovery & acceptance. We carry parts of life with us only allowing experiences to inform our sense of self (confidence), our place in the world, & whether positive experiences are meant for us. It's easy to fall into a place of negativity, blaming & criticizing ourselves for something we didn't create, yet we perpetuate it. Allow therapy with me to help explore, realize, & accept your "best self" & to realize the power to shift your life experience by changing thoughts about it. Your truth lies within you, not in what others tell you.
(415) 300-4619 View (415) 300-4619
Photo of Jennifer Nasser - Honeycomb Wellness Group, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Honeycomb Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
(415) 338-9366 View (415) 338-9366
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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.