Imago Therapists in Englewood, CO

Photo of Virginia (Ginger) Inmon, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia (Ginger) Inmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Englewood, CO 80113
I provide psychotherapy and counseling to adults, couples and families, and have extensive training in couples work and grief therapy (including traumatic loss and loss after a suicide). I draw primarily from a Psychodynamic approach to therapy but have training in a variety of modalities, including EMDR and Brainspotting, specialized grief therapy, DBT, family systems, IFS, trauma therapy, and Imago couples therapy, so as to be able to meet my clients where they are and with what might best attend to their issues.
I provide psychotherapy and counseling to adults, couples and families, and have extensive training in couples work and grief therapy (including traumatic loss and loss after a suicide). I draw primarily from a Psychodynamic approach to therapy but have training in a variety of modalities, including EMDR and Brainspotting, specialized grief therapy, DBT, family systems, IFS, trauma therapy, and Imago couples therapy, so as to be able to meet my clients where they are and with what might best attend to their issues.
(720) 440-2750 View (720) 440-2750
Photo of Judith H. Spendelow, PsyD, Psychologist
Judith H. Spendelow
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80111
I am a Certified Imago Therapist and am fully trained with Terry Real's Relational Life Institute.
Judith Spendelow, PsyD: I am a licensed Psychologist with the Denver Center for Relational Healing. My ideal clients feel out of balance and harmony with themselves, or with their partner. They have trouble coordinating different aspects of themselves and their relationship(s), so that needs are met satisfactorily, They see themselves as a wholistic person, and recognize that body, mind and spirit work together within them to create and heal their experiences. While they may feel "stuck" at times, they are willing to look at what their role can be to facilitate "getting unstuck!"
I am a Certified Imago Therapist and am fully trained with Terry Real's Relational Life Institute.
Judith Spendelow, PsyD: I am a licensed Psychologist with the Denver Center for Relational Healing. My ideal clients feel out of balance and harmony with themselves, or with their partner. They have trouble coordinating different aspects of themselves and their relationship(s), so that needs are met satisfactorily, They see themselves as a wholistic person, and recognize that body, mind and spirit work together within them to create and heal their experiences. While they may feel "stuck" at times, they are willing to look at what their role can be to facilitate "getting unstuck!"
(303) 816-8700 View (303) 816-8700
Photo of Patty Kozma, MFTC, MA
Patty Kozma
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MFTC, MA
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80112
I have had great success with couples using Gottman, PACT, Imago and EFT theories.
With an approach of empathy and compassion, I work with individuals and couples to provide strategic and experiential solutions to the struggle that has brought you in.  I will listen to understand and we will work together in a safe and open space.  I hope to strengthen what's already inside of you and help you develop a greater self-awareness. I bring years of life experience to this work. Please know that you are not alone and that - with gratitude and optimism - there is hope to renew your heart and re-establish the important relationships in your life, including the one with yourself.
I have had great success with couples using Gottman, PACT, Imago and EFT theories.
With an approach of empathy and compassion, I work with individuals and couples to provide strategic and experiential solutions to the struggle that has brought you in.  I will listen to understand and we will work together in a safe and open space.  I hope to strengthen what's already inside of you and help you develop a greater self-awareness. I bring years of life experience to this work. Please know that you are not alone and that - with gratitude and optimism - there is hope to renew your heart and re-establish the important relationships in your life, including the one with yourself.
(720) 613-2471 View (720) 613-2471
Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80110
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 900-5913 View (303) 900-5913
Photo of Jamie Lynn Leach - Q2Q Therapy , LMFT, LPC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Q2Q Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80113  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work primarily within my LGBTQIA+ community, and I always desire to support people across many identities and life stages. I am passionate about your relational well-being, and I specialize in working with all types of relationship structures and issues. I see the therapeutic process as dynamic and collaborative. I value that the therapeutic process is as unique as each relationship or person I see; and my hope is to expand the connection to yourself and to others through the combination of inner healing and functional skill building. My ultimate desire is to empower you as a whole person, and magnify your impact on the world.
I work primarily within my LGBTQIA+ community, and I always desire to support people across many identities and life stages. I am passionate about your relational well-being, and I specialize in working with all types of relationship structures and issues. I see the therapeutic process as dynamic and collaborative. I value that the therapeutic process is as unique as each relationship or person I see; and my hope is to expand the connection to yourself and to others through the combination of inner healing and functional skill building. My ultimate desire is to empower you as a whole person, and magnify your impact on the world.
(720) 419-1339 View (720) 419-1339
Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80112
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also provide personality, relationship and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family toward mastering life to its fullest!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also provide personality, relationship and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family toward mastering life to its fullest!
(720) 513-4301 View (720) 513-4301
Photo of Brittni Sterner - Rocky Mountain Relationship and Family Therapy, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rocky Mountain Relationship and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, CO 80110
Accepting new clients now! Are you arguing with your spouse more than connecting? Does it seem that you are disconnected and lonely? Are you struggling with feeling happy and connected in your relationship? You feel that you have tried everything and still find that you struggle to get through your days. You are ready to take control of your life and your happiness. You would like to break free from the crippling feeling of anxiety or depression. Our therapists at Rocky Mountain Relationship and Family Therapy are trained to help you go from hopeless to thriving.
Accepting new clients now! Are you arguing with your spouse more than connecting? Does it seem that you are disconnected and lonely? Are you struggling with feeling happy and connected in your relationship? You feel that you have tried everything and still find that you struggle to get through your days. You are ready to take control of your life and your happiness. You would like to break free from the crippling feeling of anxiety or depression. Our therapists at Rocky Mountain Relationship and Family Therapy are trained to help you go from hopeless to thriving.
(720) 310-1496 View (720) 310-1496
Photo of Jamie L Brennan - Jamie Brennan Unlimited Inc., MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Brennan Unlimited Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80111
We come to live our inspired life and relationships because of, not in spite of, our greatest challenges and pain. Every painful experience has at its center a great gift: the opportunity to live from a broader more joyful and peaceful place. I work with couples and individuals through the inevitable transitions of life supporting you as you learn how to shift from fear-based to trust and inspiration based choices.
We come to live our inspired life and relationships because of, not in spite of, our greatest challenges and pain. Every painful experience has at its center a great gift: the opportunity to live from a broader more joyful and peaceful place. I work with couples and individuals through the inevitable transitions of life supporting you as you learn how to shift from fear-based to trust and inspiration based choices.
(720) 961-2884 View (720) 961-2884
Photo of Sharon W Potzer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon W Potzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80112
I have been in private practice in the Denver area for over 25 years. I have worked extensively with older adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. Issues addressed include anxiety, depression, grief, loss, divorce, single parenting, career, relationship difficulties, and life transitions, among others. My approach to treatment is varied, depending on the need of the client.
I have been in private practice in the Denver area for over 25 years. I have worked extensively with older adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. Issues addressed include anxiety, depression, grief, loss, divorce, single parenting, career, relationship difficulties, and life transitions, among others. My approach to treatment is varied, depending on the need of the client.
(720) 586-4561 View (720) 586-4561
Photo of Meredith Wakelyn Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Wakelyn Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80113
Have you been dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, unresolved pain, or anger? How you feel impacts so many things- your relationships, your health, your sleep and your work. You may have tried making some changes to feel better on your own, however, you may be frustrated by your progress. You know things could be better. Finding a therapist you truly connect with can help you gain the skills you need to transform your life into one that feels calmer, more joyful and healthier.
Have you been dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, unresolved pain, or anger? How you feel impacts so many things- your relationships, your health, your sleep and your work. You may have tried making some changes to feel better on your own, however, you may be frustrated by your progress. You know things could be better. Finding a therapist you truly connect with can help you gain the skills you need to transform your life into one that feels calmer, more joyful and healthier.
(720) 371-1882 View (720) 371-1882
Photo of Suzanne Coral Carter - Dedicated to YOUR Happiness Counseling, MA, LPC, EAP, SQ-coac, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dedicated to YOUR Happiness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EAP, SQ-coac
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80112
I meet you where YOU are with a full approach: emotional, physical, relational, spiritual, financial and intellectual. I provide a safe and supportive environment for exploring and resolving obstacles to your growth and well being. YOU are far more than any diagnosis you have ever received. I am now trained in EMDR and it is THE way to get beyond all issues including over-eating, drinking, self criticizing & more. You will be easily surprised how EMDR will help you heal. please call! “Therapy for anxiety and depression is just as effective as pills in the short-term, and has much lower relapse rates in the long term."
I meet you where YOU are with a full approach: emotional, physical, relational, spiritual, financial and intellectual. I provide a safe and supportive environment for exploring and resolving obstacles to your growth and well being. YOU are far more than any diagnosis you have ever received. I am now trained in EMDR and it is THE way to get beyond all issues including over-eating, drinking, self criticizing & more. You will be easily surprised how EMDR will help you heal. please call! “Therapy for anxiety and depression is just as effective as pills in the short-term, and has much lower relapse rates in the long term."
(720) 442-7077 View (720) 442-7077
Photo of Louann Hillesland, MA, LPC, LSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Louann Hillesland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSP
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80111  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Author of forthcoming book Your Life, Your Move: Winning Strategies for Playing Life's Game. Here for you when you need support, direction and helpful guidance through life's challenges. Let's work together so that you can begin thriving. Take a step toward the life you want right now. You'll be so glad that you did!
Author of forthcoming book Your Life, Your Move: Winning Strategies for Playing Life's Game. Here for you when you need support, direction and helpful guidance through life's challenges. Let's work together so that you can begin thriving. Take a step toward the life you want right now. You'll be so glad that you did!
(303) 586-3610 View (303) 586-3610
Photo of Jade Davies, MA, LPC, EMDR-t, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jade Davies
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR-t
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Englewood, CO 80113
Are you ready to reclaim the power you've lost, connect with your intuition, and accept the parts of yourself lost to high control religion or from important relationships? If so, I am here to support you. I use the wisdom of your body and your nervous system to inform my approach. By facilitating connection with your body, I aim to help you tap into your innate capacity for healing and growth by slowing down and tuning in. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive space with you to explore yourself and the pain you carry from previous relationships and experiences.
Are you ready to reclaim the power you've lost, connect with your intuition, and accept the parts of yourself lost to high control religion or from important relationships? If so, I am here to support you. I use the wisdom of your body and your nervous system to inform my approach. By facilitating connection with your body, I aim to help you tap into your innate capacity for healing and growth by slowing down and tuning in. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive space with you to explore yourself and the pain you carry from previous relationships and experiences.
(970) 427-9386 View (970) 427-9386
Photo of Heather M McPherson, MA, LMFT, CST, AASECT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather M McPherson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, CO 80110
Are you struggling with your relationships and sexuality? Looking for a specialist that can make talking about sex easier? I'm an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Relationship Specialist. We offer a holistic, gentle yet direct, and tailored approach that includes well-researched theories with a relational foundation. Issues can include communication, fear of sex, relationship conflicts, constant fighting, desire differences, sexual orientation, sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, polyamorous/open or kink relationships, "sex or porn addiction" or problematic sexual behaviors, infidelity, trauma or sexless marriages.
Are you struggling with your relationships and sexuality? Looking for a specialist that can make talking about sex easier? I'm an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Relationship Specialist. We offer a holistic, gentle yet direct, and tailored approach that includes well-researched theories with a relational foundation. Issues can include communication, fear of sex, relationship conflicts, constant fighting, desire differences, sexual orientation, sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, polyamorous/open or kink relationships, "sex or porn addiction" or problematic sexual behaviors, infidelity, trauma or sexless marriages.
(720) 709-2729 View (720) 709-2729

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paul A. Bretz, DMin, LCSW, MHSA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul A. Bretz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, LCSW, MHSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
Included is orientation to Imago theory, training in the use of practical communication tools, journaling exercises, and together these tools provide a road map for creating conscious intimacy.
I offer intensives & workshops for individuals, couples, and those specialized for LGBTQIA individuals, couples / partners. Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT) is a creative approach to developing healthy relationships. It is designed to help conflict within relationships become opportunities for healing and growth. The approach is also designed to help good relationships gain new tools and perspectives on further developing the depth of the connection between partners. The term " imago" is Latin for "image," and within the context of IRT, it refers to our individual “emotional blueprint” or our "unconscious image of familiar love."
Included is orientation to Imago theory, training in the use of practical communication tools, journaling exercises, and together these tools provide a road map for creating conscious intimacy.
I offer intensives & workshops for individuals, couples, and those specialized for LGBTQIA individuals, couples / partners. Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT) is a creative approach to developing healthy relationships. It is designed to help conflict within relationships become opportunities for healing and growth. The approach is also designed to help good relationships gain new tools and perspectives on further developing the depth of the connection between partners. The term " imago" is Latin for "image," and within the context of IRT, it refers to our individual “emotional blueprint” or our "unconscious image of familiar love."
(303) 416-6163 x100 View (303) 416-6163 x100
Photo of Susan M Monahan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan M Monahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80214
Are you experiencing persistent feelings of dissatisfaction? Do you feel stuck? Are you having difficulty communicating with loved ones or others? I have been in private practice for 20 years and have worked in the behavioral health field for over 30 years. I have extensive experience working in hospitals and clinics and have helped individuals, couples and families grow and return to wholeness. I am committed to help you move forward and make positive changes in your life. I am certified in both Imago Relationship Therapy(IRT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a treatment for trauma.
Are you experiencing persistent feelings of dissatisfaction? Do you feel stuck? Are you having difficulty communicating with loved ones or others? I have been in private practice for 20 years and have worked in the behavioral health field for over 30 years. I have extensive experience working in hospitals and clinics and have helped individuals, couples and families grow and return to wholeness. I am committed to help you move forward and make positive changes in your life. I am certified in both Imago Relationship Therapy(IRT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a treatment for trauma.
(720) 439-5091 View (720) 439-5091
Photo of Ben Cohen, PhD, Psychologist
Ben Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
For the past 30 years, I have been helping clients using the Imago Relationship Therapy approach.
Welcome! My passion is helping couples and individuals attain the life and relationships they desire. Most couples have just a few “core” issues, but they come up over and over again. We then get caught in patterns of criticism, defensiveness, and withdrawal. I am here to help you regain the feelings of connection, trust, and intimacy that you desire. I will provide you with the skills and strategies to help you communicate more effectively, and replace blame and criticism with empathy and understanding.
For the past 30 years, I have been helping clients using the Imago Relationship Therapy approach.
Welcome! My passion is helping couples and individuals attain the life and relationships they desire. Most couples have just a few “core” issues, but they come up over and over again. We then get caught in patterns of criticism, defensiveness, and withdrawal. I am here to help you regain the feelings of connection, trust, and intimacy that you desire. I will provide you with the skills and strategies to help you communicate more effectively, and replace blame and criticism with empathy and understanding.
(720) 316-9947 View (720) 316-9947
Photo of Teresa Lalicker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teresa Lalicker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80125  (Online Only)
I also have experience in mindfulness, Imago, gestalt and self compassion therapy as well as other holistic modalities.
Are you functioning in your life but underneath having feelings of anxiety, depression, self criticism, or despair? Are you experiencing confusion and conflict in your relationships? Perhaps you feel anxious most days, want a relationship, deal with current or past trauma or adversity, or struggle to make big decisions in your life? Therapy can help. Through exploration, my clients are able to express their inner most desires, bringing more peace, balance, and happiness to their lives. I am a licensed holistic and depth oriented psychotherapist with an online private practice in CA and in the process of securing a CO license as well
I also have experience in mindfulness, Imago, gestalt and self compassion therapy as well as other holistic modalities.
Are you functioning in your life but underneath having feelings of anxiety, depression, self criticism, or despair? Are you experiencing confusion and conflict in your relationships? Perhaps you feel anxious most days, want a relationship, deal with current or past trauma or adversity, or struggle to make big decisions in your life? Therapy can help. Through exploration, my clients are able to express their inner most desires, bringing more peace, balance, and happiness to their lives. I am a licensed holistic and depth oriented psychotherapist with an online private practice in CA and in the process of securing a CO license as well
(747) 246-7774 View (747) 246-7774
Photo of Laura Brodie, MA, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Brodie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218
Your personal healing has been my focus for almost 40 years. This level of experience gifts me with training in many theoretical approaches, compassionate listening, astute insights. You might want to mend an intimate partnership, recover from self-destructive and self-sabotaging patterns or addictions, or get support during a major life transition. My expertise is with Imago Relationship Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), The Journey Process, PACT (Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy), art psychotherapy, & hypnotherapy. It is my privilege to speak with you in an initial consultation free of charge.
Your personal healing has been my focus for almost 40 years. This level of experience gifts me with training in many theoretical approaches, compassionate listening, astute insights. You might want to mend an intimate partnership, recover from self-destructive and self-sabotaging patterns or addictions, or get support during a major life transition. My expertise is with Imago Relationship Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), The Journey Process, PACT (Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy), art psychotherapy, & hypnotherapy. It is my privilege to speak with you in an initial consultation free of charge.
(720) 885-9559 View (720) 885-9559
Photo of Malia Scott - Malia Scott, RE-Wilding Relationships PLLC
Malia Scott, RE-Wilding Relationships PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I integrate various models - attachment theory, neurobiology, Imago, RLT, IFS, Gottman, PACT, ADHD, Prepare/Enrich pre-marital counseling, Discernment therapy, Infidelity/Affair recovery, Narcissistic abuse education & Recovery in my practice.
Available in TX & CO. ADHD & anxiety. Healing relational trauma. Communication, healing and connection. Breaking stuck patterns and working with sex/desire/intimacy discrepancy. Erotic recovery & spicing up your sex/intimacy. Sexual dysfunction. Kink/BDSM/Consensual Non-monogamy. Navigating sexuality. Out of control sexual behavior. Hormonal changes affecting relationship. High conflict relationships. Infidelity. Couple on the brink of divorce/discernment therapy. Pre-marital counseling w/ comprehensive sex/intimacy/divorce education. Healing from narcissistic abuse. Life transitions. Individuation. Divorce. Re-discovery.
I integrate various models - attachment theory, neurobiology, Imago, RLT, IFS, Gottman, PACT, ADHD, Prepare/Enrich pre-marital counseling, Discernment therapy, Infidelity/Affair recovery, Narcissistic abuse education & Recovery in my practice.
Available in TX & CO. ADHD & anxiety. Healing relational trauma. Communication, healing and connection. Breaking stuck patterns and working with sex/desire/intimacy discrepancy. Erotic recovery & spicing up your sex/intimacy. Sexual dysfunction. Kink/BDSM/Consensual Non-monogamy. Navigating sexuality. Out of control sexual behavior. Hormonal changes affecting relationship. High conflict relationships. Infidelity. Couple on the brink of divorce/discernment therapy. Pre-marital counseling w/ comprehensive sex/intimacy/divorce education. Healing from narcissistic abuse. Life transitions. Individuation. Divorce. Re-discovery.
(806) 464-4644 View (806) 464-4644
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.