Imago Therapists in Walnut Creek, CA

Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(925) 320-0698 View (925) 320-0698
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 350-3542 View (510) 350-3542
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 591-4976 View (510) 591-4976
Photo of Paul Kramer, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
(510) 241-0853 View (510) 241-0853
Photo of Julie A. Albert, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie A. Albert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Are you overwhelmed? Frustrated? Angry with your partner? Are you feeling stuck with ongoing conflicts and reactivity? Are you feeling betrayed, unseen, or misunderstood? I will help you TRANSFORM YOUR RELATIONSHIP using the tools of Imago Relationship Therapy. (www.Gettingtheloveyouwant) I will guide you in the rebuilding of trust and connection, increasing intimacy and developing effective communication with each other. I will help you safely explore areas of current concern, as well as issues that have been buried. I will help your relationship transform from a power struggle, to a conscious relationship. A 3-4 hour intensive is also offered.
Are you overwhelmed? Frustrated? Angry with your partner? Are you feeling stuck with ongoing conflicts and reactivity? Are you feeling betrayed, unseen, or misunderstood? I will help you TRANSFORM YOUR RELATIONSHIP using the tools of Imago Relationship Therapy. (www.Gettingtheloveyouwant) I will guide you in the rebuilding of trust and connection, increasing intimacy and developing effective communication with each other. I will help you safely explore areas of current concern, as well as issues that have been buried. I will help your relationship transform from a power struggle, to a conscious relationship. A 3-4 hour intensive is also offered.
(415) 800-3377 View (415) 800-3377
Photo of Christina Hourany, AMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christina Hourany
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
If you are reading this, you have chosen to take the first step to healing. This decision is a demonstration of your resiliency, strength, and courage to be vulnerable, something to be immensely proud of. My therapeutic approach in working with individuals and couples is integrative. I recognize that no two persons are the same and that each person requires a treatment plan that is adapted to meet their needs. I recognize that experiences of trauma and pain are two unavoidable life experiences. However, I believe that there is a resiliency and strength inside each individual that supports a path of healing.
If you are reading this, you have chosen to take the first step to healing. This decision is a demonstration of your resiliency, strength, and courage to be vulnerable, something to be immensely proud of. My therapeutic approach in working with individuals and couples is integrative. I recognize that no two persons are the same and that each person requires a treatment plan that is adapted to meet their needs. I recognize that experiences of trauma and pain are two unavoidable life experiences. However, I believe that there is a resiliency and strength inside each individual that supports a path of healing.
(925) 701-9385 View (925) 701-9385
Photo of Joan Bechtel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joan Bechtel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
How do we break the spell of trauma? Shame, internalized gaslighting, trust issues, addictions and all the rest. How do we break free? The funny answer is not by fighting them as enemies. But by befriending them. Once we befriend them, they lose their power over us. But how do we befriend an enemy that lives in our Unconscious? Dreams, art, play, and imagination are all natives of this realm. so they are perfect guides through our underworld of rich personal symbolism to befriend shadow elements and integrate repressed capacities, replenishing vitality. Fun breaks the spell.
How do we break the spell of trauma? Shame, internalized gaslighting, trust issues, addictions and all the rest. How do we break free? The funny answer is not by fighting them as enemies. But by befriending them. Once we befriend them, they lose their power over us. But how do we befriend an enemy that lives in our Unconscious? Dreams, art, play, and imagination are all natives of this realm. so they are perfect guides through our underworld of rich personal symbolism to befriend shadow elements and integrate repressed capacities, replenishing vitality. Fun breaks the spell.
(925) 705-4006 View (925) 705-4006
Photo of Amanda Somberg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Somberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I know how desperate you feel, having the same fight again and again with no resolution. You try harder, but your partner just seems to sabotage you. So you fight back, "lose it," and feel guilty. You reminisce about the past, hoping the future will get better. If this vignette strikes a chord, please know that I specialize in relationships at "marital death's doorstep." Grandiosity, rage, and shame become empathy, cooperation, and mutual respect. Hope and love do flourish again. This is a big promise, so call for a free 20-minute phone consultation. A happier life is out there.
I know how desperate you feel, having the same fight again and again with no resolution. You try harder, but your partner just seems to sabotage you. So you fight back, "lose it," and feel guilty. You reminisce about the past, hoping the future will get better. If this vignette strikes a chord, please know that I specialize in relationships at "marital death's doorstep." Grandiosity, rage, and shame become empathy, cooperation, and mutual respect. Hope and love do flourish again. This is a big promise, so call for a free 20-minute phone consultation. A happier life is out there.
(925) 588-4777 View (925) 588-4777
Photo of Danielle Horne, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Danielle Horne
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
Not feeling seen or heard? Broken trust? Always there for others and not experiencing reciprocation. Feeling lost and want to get back to center. Childhood trauma, relationship trauma? Maybe you’re ready to move toward a fresh start and experience freedom from emotional bondage. Learn how to care for yourself, create healthy boundaries, and feel connected.
Not feeling seen or heard? Broken trust? Always there for others and not experiencing reciprocation. Feeling lost and want to get back to center. Childhood trauma, relationship trauma? Maybe you’re ready to move toward a fresh start and experience freedom from emotional bondage. Learn how to care for yourself, create healthy boundaries, and feel connected.
(408) 459-6211 View (408) 459-6211
Photo of Cynthia Pastor, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Pastor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I help adults and couples with relationship and codependency issues, grief and loss, depression, anxiety and addictive patterns with self and others. I help you to create a relationship with yourself and others based on respect, caring and trust. This helps build the feeling of safety that lies at the core of any successful therapy. My goal is to support you in finding and strengthening your own inner voice. When we learn to free ourselves from old, stuck patterns of relating (in mind and body), we often feel a lightness of being that allows us to experience more joy in our everyday lives.
I help adults and couples with relationship and codependency issues, grief and loss, depression, anxiety and addictive patterns with self and others. I help you to create a relationship with yourself and others based on respect, caring and trust. This helps build the feeling of safety that lies at the core of any successful therapy. My goal is to support you in finding and strengthening your own inner voice. When we learn to free ourselves from old, stuck patterns of relating (in mind and body), we often feel a lightness of being that allows us to experience more joy in our everyday lives.
(925) 275-5874 View (925) 275-5874
Photo of Julie Anderson, MA, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
As the host of my own popular radio show for eight years, I had a chance to do on a grand scale what I love most: touching people's lives in a positive way. Because of the call-in format, I became every effective at quickly identifying the underlying factors that were causing concern. Today, I continue to use my exceptional intuition and experience to rapidly guide clients in gaining insight into their problems and making changes so that they can lead more fulfilling lives. From our first hour together, you will feel confident that your issues are being addressed.
As the host of my own popular radio show for eight years, I had a chance to do on a grand scale what I love most: touching people's lives in a positive way. Because of the call-in format, I became every effective at quickly identifying the underlying factors that were causing concern. Today, I continue to use my exceptional intuition and experience to rapidly guide clients in gaining insight into their problems and making changes so that they can lead more fulfilling lives. From our first hour together, you will feel confident that your issues are being addressed.
(925) 521-8780 View (925) 521-8780
Photo of Victoria Lee, PhD, Psychologist
Victoria Lee
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94595  (Online Only)
You are intelligent and successful in many parts of your life, but some issues seem to stand in the way of realizing your potential as an individual. Or perhaps you are longing for a relationship that's full of joy and pleasure? Maybe you need help resolving conflicts, improving communication, or having more intimacy? In both cases, I can help! Visit my website for resources. I can also consult with you anywhere in the world by Zoom, Facetime, Skype, phone or email: drvictoria@coupleswisdom.com or call me at 510.882.2330.
You are intelligent and successful in many parts of your life, but some issues seem to stand in the way of realizing your potential as an individual. Or perhaps you are longing for a relationship that's full of joy and pleasure? Maybe you need help resolving conflicts, improving communication, or having more intimacy? In both cases, I can help! Visit my website for resources. I can also consult with you anywhere in the world by Zoom, Facetime, Skype, phone or email: drvictoria@coupleswisdom.com or call me at 510.882.2330.
(510) 698-8410 View (510) 698-8410
Photo of Paul Kramer - Remarkable Services, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
(925) 436-1725 View (925) 436-1725
Photo of Courtney Quattrini, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Quattrini
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
At the center of the human experience lie the stories we tell about ourselves and those we tell about others. Stories have the power to move us in remarkable ways. They teach us about life and love and show us how joy and pain coexist. They remind us of the resiliency we possess to overcome suffering. They can help us keep our faith, or they can evoke fear. Stories may leave our minds but overstay their welcome in our bodies. Sometimes, detaching from the stories that no longer serve us feels impossible, as they often keep us somehow safe.
At the center of the human experience lie the stories we tell about ourselves and those we tell about others. Stories have the power to move us in remarkable ways. They teach us about life and love and show us how joy and pain coexist. They remind us of the resiliency we possess to overcome suffering. They can help us keep our faith, or they can evoke fear. Stories may leave our minds but overstay their welcome in our bodies. Sometimes, detaching from the stories that no longer serve us feels impossible, as they often keep us somehow safe.
(510) 256-7865 View (510) 256-7865
Photo of David Brown - Remarkable Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Life can feel uncertain and mixed emotions can make it difficult to know what to do. As your therapist, I want you to leave feeling heard, understood, accepted, and empowered. Sessions are centered around you and your experiences. Using a narrative approach, we work together to create a life narrative that highlights your strengths, history, and how you have worked to thrive. My role is to support you and walk alongside you through this time in life.
Life can feel uncertain and mixed emotions can make it difficult to know what to do. As your therapist, I want you to leave feeling heard, understood, accepted, and empowered. Sessions are centered around you and your experiences. Using a narrative approach, we work together to create a life narrative that highlights your strengths, history, and how you have worked to thrive. My role is to support you and walk alongside you through this time in life.
(562) 307-8710 View (562) 307-8710
Photo of Jonel Mizerak, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonel Mizerak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
By seeking therapy you have begun your journey towards positive change. Counseling can help you create healthier choices, gain emotional self-awareness, and better communication and relationship patterns. I welcome individuals, couples, adults and teens who present with a variety of life challenges and from diverse backgrounds. I use an integrative approach to best fit the needs of each client. My style is empathic, supportive, interactive, collaborative and relational. I believe in creating a supportive space for each person to find their authentic self in order to live a more productive, peaceful, and joyful life.
By seeking therapy you have begun your journey towards positive change. Counseling can help you create healthier choices, gain emotional self-awareness, and better communication and relationship patterns. I welcome individuals, couples, adults and teens who present with a variety of life challenges and from diverse backgrounds. I use an integrative approach to best fit the needs of each client. My style is empathic, supportive, interactive, collaborative and relational. I believe in creating a supportive space for each person to find their authentic self in order to live a more productive, peaceful, and joyful life.
(925) 548-8841 View (925) 548-8841
Photo of Kathleen E Sims, CHT, CRC, Pastoral Counselor
Kathleen E Sims
Pastoral Counselor, CHT, CRC
Not Verified Not Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I assist clients in healing their mind, emotions & history - creating permanent change - which clears the way so they can Live the Life for which their heart yearns. I specialize in Conscious Love Relationships that can last a lifetime. Along with Creating a Life of Meaning and Purpose, I have developed very powerful, permanent Change Processes and Coaching Tools - which can also help with self-esteem issues, anxiety, stress, panic, and PTSD. My sessions range from 75 minutes to 2 hours. Feel free to call 925 914-0098 for a Complimentary 30-minute consultation.
I assist clients in healing their mind, emotions & history - creating permanent change - which clears the way so they can Live the Life for which their heart yearns. I specialize in Conscious Love Relationships that can last a lifetime. Along with Creating a Life of Meaning and Purpose, I have developed very powerful, permanent Change Processes and Coaching Tools - which can also help with self-esteem issues, anxiety, stress, panic, and PTSD. My sessions range from 75 minutes to 2 hours. Feel free to call 925 914-0098 for a Complimentary 30-minute consultation.
(925) 914-0098 View (925) 914-0098
Photo of Marla Lane-Parks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marla Lane-Parks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
For nine years I have had hands-on experience working with individuals, children, couples and families, and have helped my clients deal with the various challenges life brought them. Diversity and inclusion are core beliefs of mine. I feel that every person has value that can be enriched and strengthened.
For nine years I have had hands-on experience working with individuals, children, couples and families, and have helped my clients deal with the various challenges life brought them. Diversity and inclusion are core beliefs of mine. I feel that every person has value that can be enriched and strengthened.
(925) 326-6067 View (925) 326-6067
Photo of Angela Ristow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Ristow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I work primarily with adults who are managing change and transitions, depression/anxiety, relationship concerns including divorce, women’s issues, parenting support, and grief/loss.
I work primarily with adults who are managing change and transitions, depression/anxiety, relationship concerns including divorce, women’s issues, parenting support, and grief/loss.
(925) 268-7459 View (925) 268-7459
Photo of Teresa Richman - Kokoro Counseling Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kokoro Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
At Kokoro Counseling Center we help people move through their lives with a greater sense of purpose, meaning, and joy. We partner with our clients to develop treatment goals that target unwanted emotional struggles and behavioral patterns. Upon request, we work with prescribing medical providers for a more promising psychotherapeutic outcome. Our practice integrates various clinical treatment theories that meet a range of client treatment needs. Our center offers an emotionally safe space to heal past trauma and embrace new beginnings. Even in the darkest of places, we can recapture resiliency and joy one step at a time.
At Kokoro Counseling Center we help people move through their lives with a greater sense of purpose, meaning, and joy. We partner with our clients to develop treatment goals that target unwanted emotional struggles and behavioral patterns. Upon request, we work with prescribing medical providers for a more promising psychotherapeutic outcome. Our practice integrates various clinical treatment theories that meet a range of client treatment needs. Our center offers an emotionally safe space to heal past trauma and embrace new beginnings. Even in the darkest of places, we can recapture resiliency and joy one step at a time.
(530) 441-0927 View (530) 441-0927
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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.