Imago Therapists in Fulton County, GA

Photo of William (Bill) Waldorf, LPC, CIRT, Licensed Professional Counselor
William (Bill) Waldorf
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CIRT
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Other related education / certifications: Certified Imago Relationship Therapist (CIRT) Designated an Master Career Counselor (MCC) by the National Career Development Association; Licensed Counselor (LPC) in Georgia MBA from Yale University.
Relationship counseling and career counseling. Career and relationships. Focusing on these two areas allows me to help you in these important parts of your life. Clients tell me that I understand what they are going through. Maybe like you, I have experienced some "turbulence" in my career and stressful times in my relationship. If you can't find a meaningful job, or if you're troubled by your relationship with a loved one -- partner, child, sibling, or parent -- I feel I can help. I would enjoy speaking with you, too!
Other related education / certifications: Certified Imago Relationship Therapist (CIRT) Designated an Master Career Counselor (MCC) by the National Career Development Association; Licensed Counselor (LPC) in Georgia MBA from Yale University.
Relationship counseling and career counseling. Career and relationships. Focusing on these two areas allows me to help you in these important parts of your life. Clients tell me that I understand what they are going through. Maybe like you, I have experienced some "turbulence" in my career and stressful times in my relationship. If you can't find a meaningful job, or if you're troubled by your relationship with a loved one -- partner, child, sibling, or parent -- I feel I can help. I would enjoy speaking with you, too!
Photo of Ilene L Cooper, LCSW, CIRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilene L Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and have extensive training in relationship counseling, including; Emotionally Focused Relationship counseling, Imago, and Drs.
Counseling is provided in a supportive atmosphere to find new solutions with the issues you are struggling with. Professional counseling is provided to assist individuals with relationships, diminish stress, and to achieve clarity and confidence about goals and personal desires. Helping clients reach their potential in pursuits that they feel is important is a priority. Each individual is given care and attention to begin to understand the reasons that have led to current difficulties. Goals are established collaboratively to achieve relief and lasting change.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and have extensive training in relationship counseling, including; Emotionally Focused Relationship counseling, Imago, and Drs.
Counseling is provided in a supportive atmosphere to find new solutions with the issues you are struggling with. Professional counseling is provided to assist individuals with relationships, diminish stress, and to achieve clarity and confidence about goals and personal desires. Helping clients reach their potential in pursuits that they feel is important is a priority. Each individual is given care and attention to begin to understand the reasons that have led to current difficulties. Goals are established collaboratively to achieve relief and lasting change.
(678) 245-6191 View (678) 245-6191
Photo of Catharine Wirth, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catharine Wirth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I can help couples get to the root of what each person is needing from his or her partner. Common issues include: infertility, infidelity, parenting struggles, sexual difficulties, money, divorce/separation, and different relationship goals. As a trained Imago couples therapist, I have real skills to help couples learn to connect with each other in a conscious and deep way. This leads to a more satisfying relationship.
I can help couples get to the root of what each person is needing from his or her partner. Common issues include: infertility, infidelity, parenting struggles, sexual difficulties, money, divorce/separation, and different relationship goals. As a trained Imago couples therapist, I have real skills to help couples learn to connect with each other in a conscious and deep way. This leads to a more satisfying relationship.
(404) 994-2402 View (404) 994-2402
Photo of William Smith - The Atlanta Marriage and Mediation Clinic, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Atlanta Marriage and Mediation Clinic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
AMMC offers the highest quality couples counseling and dispute resolution services in Atlanta. We are highly trained and experienced in working with the leading models of therapy for relationship therapy, including Gottman Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Imago Therapy, and have proven results in improving marital satisfaction. We also work to resolve family disputes, including divorce mediation, coparenting coordination, and coparenting counseling. We do work frequently with attorneys, including child custody evaluations. We are proud to work regularly with Atlanta's LGBTQ+ community and work to make sure all feel welcome.
AMMC offers the highest quality couples counseling and dispute resolution services in Atlanta. We are highly trained and experienced in working with the leading models of therapy for relationship therapy, including Gottman Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Imago Therapy, and have proven results in improving marital satisfaction. We also work to resolve family disputes, including divorce mediation, coparenting coordination, and coparenting counseling. We do work frequently with attorneys, including child custody evaluations. We are proud to work regularly with Atlanta's LGBTQ+ community and work to make sure all feel welcome.
(470) 441-4840 View (470) 441-4840
Photo of Linda Ann Olson, PsyD, Psychologist
Linda Ann Olson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30075
Imago Relationship Therapy and exposure response prevention (ERP) My own experience of growing up with childhood domestic violence (CDV) inspired me to dedicate my life to helping children and adult survivors overcome the effects of CDV and I will help you build the skills to reach your full potential.
My passion is to help people who have experienced any type of trauma; such as divorce, grief and loss, PTSD, and adults survivors who grew up with domestic violence. I also work with people who are suffering from sexual abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety or depression . My specialty is helping children and adults recover from childhood domestic violence. Many of my clients have grown up in homes where they witnessed domestic violence. I help them understand that what they've experienced is not their fault and they are not alone. By discovering their true potential in the work we
Imago Relationship Therapy and exposure response prevention (ERP) My own experience of growing up with childhood domestic violence (CDV) inspired me to dedicate my life to helping children and adult survivors overcome the effects of CDV and I will help you build the skills to reach your full potential.
My passion is to help people who have experienced any type of trauma; such as divorce, grief and loss, PTSD, and adults survivors who grew up with domestic violence. I also work with people who are suffering from sexual abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety or depression . My specialty is helping children and adults recover from childhood domestic violence. Many of my clients have grown up in homes where they witnessed domestic violence. I help them understand that what they've experienced is not their fault and they are not alone. By discovering their true potential in the work we
(404) 390-1583 View (404) 390-1583
Photo of Alison E Reed, LPC, CIRT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison E Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CIRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309
In addition to utilizing Imago Relationship Therapy with couples and Prepare/Enrich premarital program with engaged couples, other areas of specialization include helping adults in their relationship with self and others, with life changes/transitions, adult child to parent conflict, spiritual and/or religious concerns and personal growth.
You are not “crazy” because you are feeling disconnected from your spouse or partner, or because you keep finding yourself in dating relationships or friendships that are more frustrating that fulfilling. You are not “crazy” because you have difficulty making decisions due to worry about what other people will think. You are not “crazy” because you are beginning to question what you thought you would never question. You are human-and we all have times in our lives when we need help.
In addition to utilizing Imago Relationship Therapy with couples and Prepare/Enrich premarital program with engaged couples, other areas of specialization include helping adults in their relationship with self and others, with life changes/transitions, adult child to parent conflict, spiritual and/or religious concerns and personal growth.
You are not “crazy” because you are feeling disconnected from your spouse or partner, or because you keep finding yourself in dating relationships or friendships that are more frustrating that fulfilling. You are not “crazy” because you have difficulty making decisions due to worry about what other people will think. You are not “crazy” because you are beginning to question what you thought you would never question. You are human-and we all have times in our lives when we need help.
(770) 856-4613 View (770) 856-4613
Photo of Michelle D Morris, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle D Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Certified Imago Therapists help clients understand their childhood wounds, their attachment style, and what their half is in their unhappy relationship.
Why is my marriage so difficult? Should we get couples counseling? Why are my other relationships leaving me feeling hopeless? Why me? You need understanding and answers and a way of being that brings you peace and happiness. I have worked with and helped many individuals and couples asking these very questions. Whether you are suffering from relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress I understand and can help. You have the ability to make positive changes in your life you just need the tools to do so. Together we can understand these unwanted detours and learn how to manage next time more successfully.
Certified Imago Therapists help clients understand their childhood wounds, their attachment style, and what their half is in their unhappy relationship.
Why is my marriage so difficult? Should we get couples counseling? Why are my other relationships leaving me feeling hopeless? Why me? You need understanding and answers and a way of being that brings you peace and happiness. I have worked with and helped many individuals and couples asking these very questions. Whether you are suffering from relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress I understand and can help. You have the ability to make positive changes in your life you just need the tools to do so. Together we can understand these unwanted detours and learn how to manage next time more successfully.
(404) 383-0275 View (404) 383-0275
Photo of Cathy Mairin (Formerly Marakovits), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Mairin (Formerly Marakovits)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
My approach to couples therapy is integrated, having trained in Imago therapy, the Gottman method, Emotionally Focused Couples therapy, Ellyn Bader's Developmental Model, amongst others.
I’ve had the privilege of assisting numerous couples find their way back to connected fulfilling relationships. Whether you are seeking to heal from the trauma of infidelity, eliminate painful patterns of communication, gain greater understanding of one another, be a better team, or light the spark between you again, I’d welcome the opportunity to provide a path to healing and reconnection. I will hold the hope for you as you learn new tools and understanding until you can hold the torch yourselves. I also work with individuals seeking to improve their mental health, relationships, overall sense of wellbeing, and meaning in life.
My approach to couples therapy is integrated, having trained in Imago therapy, the Gottman method, Emotionally Focused Couples therapy, Ellyn Bader's Developmental Model, amongst others.
I’ve had the privilege of assisting numerous couples find their way back to connected fulfilling relationships. Whether you are seeking to heal from the trauma of infidelity, eliminate painful patterns of communication, gain greater understanding of one another, be a better team, or light the spark between you again, I’d welcome the opportunity to provide a path to healing and reconnection. I will hold the hope for you as you learn new tools and understanding until you can hold the torch yourselves. I also work with individuals seeking to improve their mental health, relationships, overall sense of wellbeing, and meaning in life.
(404) 352-0047 View (404) 352-0047
Photo of Jen Moore, LMSW, IMAGO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMAGO
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306
IMAGO therapy for couples/individuals, cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety/depression, relationship issues, life transitions.
Whether you are going through a difficult transition in life or are interested in investing time in your personal growth, having a partner to help navigate your journey can be transformational. My approach is person-centered, and strength based, and I draw from many modalities depending on each client's unique needs. IMAGO therapy for couples going through challenging times can help open up channels of communication and strengthen empathy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for individuals struggling with depression and anxiety can restructure and reframe patterns of thought in order to reset their outlook on life.
IMAGO therapy for couples/individuals, cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety/depression, relationship issues, life transitions.
Whether you are going through a difficult transition in life or are interested in investing time in your personal growth, having a partner to help navigate your journey can be transformational. My approach is person-centered, and strength based, and I draw from many modalities depending on each client's unique needs. IMAGO therapy for couples going through challenging times can help open up channels of communication and strengthen empathy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for individuals struggling with depression and anxiety can restructure and reframe patterns of thought in order to reset their outlook on life.
(404) 962-7462 View (404) 962-7462
Photo of Deborah A Russo, PsyD, MS,  MA, CES, Psychologist
Deborah A Russo
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MA, CES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
I am invested in helping individuals & couples navigate the challenges & milestones that surface in serious dating, pre-engagement, engagement, and married relationships. I am a certified facilitator for several evidence-based relationship-building inventory programs that help reduce vulnerability of a failed relationship. Research shows that most people wait until they are six years into a relationship before they reach for the help, direction, and support they need. I help intentional couples build resilient bonds by more deeply understanding one another through learning & practicing tools to enrich their relationship.
I am invested in helping individuals & couples navigate the challenges & milestones that surface in serious dating, pre-engagement, engagement, and married relationships. I am a certified facilitator for several evidence-based relationship-building inventory programs that help reduce vulnerability of a failed relationship. Research shows that most people wait until they are six years into a relationship before they reach for the help, direction, and support they need. I help intentional couples build resilient bonds by more deeply understanding one another through learning & practicing tools to enrich their relationship.
(678) 293-4203 View (678) 293-4203
Photo of Laura Carmody, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Carmody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one? You’re balancing caregiving, and feeling anxious. Your friends or family want to be supportive, but they don't know how. You want to feel prepared, but don’t know how? Maybe you’ve already lost someone you love- a family member, a friend, a partner, a pet? Are you struggling to find a new path forward? Or maybe you just received a cancer diagnosis? Alternatively, are you feeling stuck in a relationship with a family member, friend, or partner? Do you keep repeating toxic relationship patterns and you're not sure why? You're exhausted and looking for a new perspective?
Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one? You’re balancing caregiving, and feeling anxious. Your friends or family want to be supportive, but they don't know how. You want to feel prepared, but don’t know how? Maybe you’ve already lost someone you love- a family member, a friend, a partner, a pet? Are you struggling to find a new path forward? Or maybe you just received a cancer diagnosis? Alternatively, are you feeling stuck in a relationship with a family member, friend, or partner? Do you keep repeating toxic relationship patterns and you're not sure why? You're exhausted and looking for a new perspective?
(678) 501-7246 View (678) 501-7246
Photo of Deva Joy Gouss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deva Joy Gouss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30306
I see therapy as a powerful commitment to one's own healing and personal evolution, in the context of a genuine relationship based on equality and respect. I work best with people who are ready and willing to dive in and learn new ways to be with themselves, no matter what circumstances they are dealing with (relationship problems, grief and loss, sexuality and identity issues, negative thinking, depression, anxiety, family responsibilities, health issues, midlife transitions, etc). Though deep listening is foundational, I take an active role in offering feedback and teaching you tools for shifting your inner and outer realties.
I see therapy as a powerful commitment to one's own healing and personal evolution, in the context of a genuine relationship based on equality and respect. I work best with people who are ready and willing to dive in and learn new ways to be with themselves, no matter what circumstances they are dealing with (relationship problems, grief and loss, sexuality and identity issues, negative thinking, depression, anxiety, family responsibilities, health issues, midlife transitions, etc). Though deep listening is foundational, I take an active role in offering feedback and teaching you tools for shifting your inner and outer realties.
(404) 566-7019 View (404) 566-7019
Photo of Darlene Cooper, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darlene Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318
Hello my name is Darlene and I have been a counselor for over 20 years. I am compassionate, empathetic and goal focused therapist. I create a calm and productive counseling environment to help you at your time of need. My experience includes work with couples, families and individual facing challenging times in their life. Issues that I have helps other with include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, marriage issues, addiction and life issues. I have experience in many different settings such as private practice, Residential treatment, drug/dui courts and college setting.
Hello my name is Darlene and I have been a counselor for over 20 years. I am compassionate, empathetic and goal focused therapist. I create a calm and productive counseling environment to help you at your time of need. My experience includes work with couples, families and individual facing challenging times in their life. Issues that I have helps other with include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, marriage issues, addiction and life issues. I have experience in many different settings such as private practice, Residential treatment, drug/dui courts and college setting.
(912) 575-6878 View (912) 575-6878
Photo of Ephrat Less Lipton, LCSW, BCD, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ephrat Less Lipton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
I have been treating clients who struggle with eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety and related disorders, life transition issues, grief/loss, and marital and family issues for about 30 years. I also work as a therapist who treats other therapists for their own mental wellness needs and I work as a consultant for therapists starting and/or growing their practices. Clients and families typically come to me for help with diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment implementation, often through referral from another professional or a past client. Often, these clients have tried other treatments and haven’t found optimal results.
I have been treating clients who struggle with eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety and related disorders, life transition issues, grief/loss, and marital and family issues for about 30 years. I also work as a therapist who treats other therapists for their own mental wellness needs and I work as a consultant for therapists starting and/or growing their practices. Clients and families typically come to me for help with diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment implementation, often through referral from another professional or a past client. Often, these clients have tried other treatments and haven’t found optimal results.
(470) 236-4432 View (470) 236-4432
Photo of Monica Dutke, LPC, ATR, CHT, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Dutke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, CHT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I offer healing services through a variety of methods, including art therapy, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, play therapy, DBT, EMDR, EFT and more. My approach is strength-based, meeting you where you are on your journey. I believe the therapeutic relationship is sacred, and I honor the unique needs of each individual, couple, family, or group. Drawing from my life experience, training, and education, I work creatively to support you in achieving your goals. I provide therapy to individuals of all ages, families, couples, and groups, with specialized experience in helping those navigating addiction and codependency.
I offer healing services through a variety of methods, including art therapy, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, play therapy, DBT, EMDR, EFT and more. My approach is strength-based, meeting you where you are on your journey. I believe the therapeutic relationship is sacred, and I honor the unique needs of each individual, couple, family, or group. Drawing from my life experience, training, and education, I work creatively to support you in achieving your goals. I provide therapy to individuals of all ages, families, couples, and groups, with specialized experience in helping those navigating addiction and codependency.
(770) 766-4716 View (770) 766-4716
Photo of Eddie Reece, MS, LPC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eddie Reece
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Not getting along with someone, something or yourself? Would you like to improve your everyday situations and live a better life? Want to communicate effectively with loved ones and ones not so loved? Want to achieve more intimacy in loving relationships? Are you stressed or anxious? I can help. I'm committed to you living a better life, so if I don't work with your particular issue, I'll help you find someone who does. I may not become your therapist, but by contacting me, you'll be taking a big first step to living the life you want.
Not getting along with someone, something or yourself? Would you like to improve your everyday situations and live a better life? Want to communicate effectively with loved ones and ones not so loved? Want to achieve more intimacy in loving relationships? Are you stressed or anxious? I can help. I'm committed to you living a better life, so if I don't work with your particular issue, I'll help you find someone who does. I may not become your therapist, but by contacting me, you'll be taking a big first step to living the life you want.
(770) 450-5474 View (770) 450-5474
Photo of J'lynn Harvey, MS, LAMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
J'lynn Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309
Congratulations on taking the first step of your healing journey and the road to rediscovering you! I am passionate about helping young adults, and couples identify and address the unique challenges they face. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling to heal from relational trauma and issues due to infidelity, abandonment, narcissistic abuse and other forms of abuse, divorce, codependency, bullying, and more. I love working with individuals who want to be in romantic relationships, by working through the hurts and traumas from previous relationships.
Congratulations on taking the first step of your healing journey and the road to rediscovering you! I am passionate about helping young adults, and couples identify and address the unique challenges they face. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling to heal from relational trauma and issues due to infidelity, abandonment, narcissistic abuse and other forms of abuse, divorce, codependency, bullying, and more. I love working with individuals who want to be in romantic relationships, by working through the hurts and traumas from previous relationships.
(404) 800-7492 View (404) 800-7492
Photo of Anat Goldblum, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anat Goldblum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
Although life presents many challenges and obstacles, you do not need to overcome these challenges alone. I help adults and families find peace and better their lives by navigating life’s challenges in an engaging, calm, nurturing, and supportive environment. My areas of expertise include managing anxiety and stress, developing self-esteem and assertiveness, and coping with life challenges, such as relationship distress, parenting challenges, loss of a loved one, and other life transitions. I provide my clients insight and help them build skills so they can live the life they desire.
Although life presents many challenges and obstacles, you do not need to overcome these challenges alone. I help adults and families find peace and better their lives by navigating life’s challenges in an engaging, calm, nurturing, and supportive environment. My areas of expertise include managing anxiety and stress, developing self-esteem and assertiveness, and coping with life challenges, such as relationship distress, parenting challenges, loss of a loved one, and other life transitions. I provide my clients insight and help them build skills so they can live the life they desire.
(678) 562-8831 View (678) 562-8831
Photo of Lane Gormley, EdS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lane Gormley
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
I have been a Counselor and Psychotherapist, Inpatient and Outpatient, for almost 20 years. I work with people who are having difficulties with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Trauma, and many other disruptions to their personal lives. I think that anyone can heal if they intend to, and I know many ways to help them do that.
I have been a Counselor and Psychotherapist, Inpatient and Outpatient, for almost 20 years. I work with people who are having difficulties with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Trauma, and many other disruptions to their personal lives. I think that anyone can heal if they intend to, and I know many ways to help them do that.
(470) 466-8311 View (470) 466-8311
Photo of Linda Clarkson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Clarkson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30004  (Online Only)
You have days when your thoughts keep racing over and over and over again in your mind. Sometimes, you just feel so anxious and miserable. You don't know what you can do to change things or to make the thoughts stop. Maybe you feel that nothing you do is ever good enough and you're plagued by "the shoulds". You know what I mean. "I should be a better partner, parent, friend, colleague. The list goes on and on. Our thoughts create our reality. And, today's adult thoughts are often the product of our childhood history.
You have days when your thoughts keep racing over and over and over again in your mind. Sometimes, you just feel so anxious and miserable. You don't know what you can do to change things or to make the thoughts stop. Maybe you feel that nothing you do is ever good enough and you're plagued by "the shoulds". You know what I mean. "I should be a better partner, parent, friend, colleague. The list goes on and on. Our thoughts create our reality. And, today's adult thoughts are often the product of our childhood history.
(404) 738-9808 View (404) 738-9808
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See more therapy options for Fulton County

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.