Imago Therapists in Sausalito, CA

Photo of Briana Aitkenhead, MA, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist
Briana Aitkenhead
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFTI
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I have been working in the Bay Area for 10 years now as a psychotherapist. I have experience working with adolescents, couples and children. I believe that therapy is a collaborative relationship that can transform a persons perspective. I utilize many different therapeutic approaches such as DBT and emotion focused therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I have been working in the Bay Area for 10 years now as a psychotherapist. I have experience working with adolescents, couples and children. I believe that therapy is a collaborative relationship that can transform a persons perspective. I utilize many different therapeutic approaches such as DBT and emotion focused therapy.
(415) 687-4433 View (415) 687-4433
Photo of Sean Monsarrat, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sean Monsarrat
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sausalito, CA 94965  (Online Only)
It is natural to encounter challenges beyond our understanding and ability to manage that induce stress, anxiety and depression. We may have reached a puzzling crossroads in life, we may be in conflict with ourselves and others, or we may want more harmony and direction in our lives. We may have been deeply wounded or traumatized in childhood. Sometimes all we know is we feel anxious, depressed, or something is missing or wrong. Psychotherapy offers powerful approaches to these issues, and the transformation we seek comes naturally from a genuine, healthy human relationship with a skilled, compassionate psychotherapist.
It is natural to encounter challenges beyond our understanding and ability to manage that induce stress, anxiety and depression. We may have reached a puzzling crossroads in life, we may be in conflict with ourselves and others, or we may want more harmony and direction in our lives. We may have been deeply wounded or traumatized in childhood. Sometimes all we know is we feel anxious, depressed, or something is missing or wrong. Psychotherapy offers powerful approaches to these issues, and the transformation we seek comes naturally from a genuine, healthy human relationship with a skilled, compassionate psychotherapist.
(415) 997-2909 View (415) 997-2909
Photo of Megan Brubaker, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Brubaker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965  (Online Only)
Life is tough and seeking help at any point helps you become the hero of your story. I've worked with clients dealing with everyday stress, milestones, traumas, and losses. One of the most amazing things I witness are people who want to bring positive changes into their lives and are willing to set aside time to work on themselves and their growth and often find they can improve their lives in ways that surpass expectations.
Life is tough and seeking help at any point helps you become the hero of your story. I've worked with clients dealing with everyday stress, milestones, traumas, and losses. One of the most amazing things I witness are people who want to bring positive changes into their lives and are willing to set aside time to work on themselves and their growth and often find they can improve their lives in ways that surpass expectations.
(415) 364-8167 View (415) 364-8167
Photo of Linda Murlene Ojeda, MFTA, CAT, DV/VOC, SUD, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Linda Murlene Ojeda
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA, CAT, DV/VOC, SUD, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94965  (Online Only)
Get back to your best you! I believe therapy provides support in processing through what's working and what's not working for you to improve and build on your personal strengths. During our sessions we can work towards developing new coping skills while improving your relationships in this process. I am here to support you towards reaching your personal goals while reinforcing your core values. Through this process I will collaboratively work with you to bring hope, joy, and a renewed outlook on life.
Get back to your best you! I believe therapy provides support in processing through what's working and what's not working for you to improve and build on your personal strengths. During our sessions we can work towards developing new coping skills while improving your relationships in this process. I am here to support you towards reaching your personal goals while reinforcing your core values. Through this process I will collaboratively work with you to bring hope, joy, and a renewed outlook on life.
(858) 240-8292 View (858) 240-8292
Photo of Christina Cowger, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Cowger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sausalito, CA 94966
Recognizing patterns and applying actionable techniques for change is the cornerstone of our work together. I customize an emotional insight approach, cognitive-behavior structure, and mind-body tools for each client. We can safely explore how trauma and family patterns may have seeded beliefs and feelings that no longer serve the life you are striving to live. My neurobehavioral training informs how I partner with you to shift thinking, feeling, and reactivity, positively impacting self-esteem and relationships. Between sessions, tools are offered for ongoing continuity.
Recognizing patterns and applying actionable techniques for change is the cornerstone of our work together. I customize an emotional insight approach, cognitive-behavior structure, and mind-body tools for each client. We can safely explore how trauma and family patterns may have seeded beliefs and feelings that no longer serve the life you are striving to live. My neurobehavioral training informs how I partner with you to shift thinking, feeling, and reactivity, positively impacting self-esteem and relationships. Between sessions, tools are offered for ongoing continuity.
(415) 594-4976 View (415) 594-4976
Photo of Karen Gordon, LPCC
Karen Gordon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sausalito, CA 94965  (Online Only)
I am a Certified EFT Couples Therapist. My passion is helping couples + individuals understand the cycle of conflict that’s keeping them stuck in disconnection, frustration, + unhappiness + teach new ways to interact with each other - ways that lead to connection, emotional safety, belonging, trust, + love. Whether you’re single or partnered, seeking love or struggling in a relationship, I can help. I'm not a sit-back-and-say-nothing therapist. I want to see you get the results you want, + I will help you do that in an active, loving + direct way, so you can have a different kind of conversation than you’ve been able to have before.
I am a Certified EFT Couples Therapist. My passion is helping couples + individuals understand the cycle of conflict that’s keeping them stuck in disconnection, frustration, + unhappiness + teach new ways to interact with each other - ways that lead to connection, emotional safety, belonging, trust, + love. Whether you’re single or partnered, seeking love or struggling in a relationship, I can help. I'm not a sit-back-and-say-nothing therapist. I want to see you get the results you want, + I will help you do that in an active, loving + direct way, so you can have a different kind of conversation than you’ve been able to have before.
(707) 207-8821 View (707) 207-8821
Photo of Rebekah B. Tinker, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah B. Tinker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sausalito, CA 94965
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

More Therapists Nearby

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
Belvedere Tiburon, CA 94920  (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 David J Kest, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David J Kest
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
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 Dr. Norman Hering, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Norman Hering
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
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 Meredith Janson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith Janson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941  (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 Sabrina Weyeneth, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sabrina Weyeneth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920
My training in depth psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR and Imago Couples therapy - as well as a one year meditation retreat - allow me to integrate the best of Western psychology and the most powerful practices from the Eastern traditions.
I help you dissolve emotional triggers so that you learn to access real ease and discover how to end unhelpful reactions and ingrained habits that make living in your head, in your body and in your relationships challenging and exhausting. When you do this work, you not only heal addictive loops but also free yourself from feeling at the mercy of mood swings, triggering relationship patterns and emotional rollercoasters.
My training in depth psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR and Imago Couples therapy - as well as a one year meditation retreat - allow me to integrate the best of Western psychology and the most powerful practices from the Eastern traditions.
I help you dissolve emotional triggers so that you learn to access real ease and discover how to end unhelpful reactions and ingrained habits that make living in your head, in your body and in your relationships challenging and exhausting. When you do this work, you not only heal addictive loops but also free yourself from feeling at the mercy of mood swings, triggering relationship patterns and emotional rollercoasters.
(707) 335-4023 View (707) 335-4023
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, and 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, and 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
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.