Imago Therapists in Worcester County, MA

Photo of Mia Lise Carbone - Mia L. Carbone & Associates, LLC, MA, LMHC, DAy, Counselor
Mia L. Carbone & Associates, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, DAy
Verified Verified
Princeton, MA 01541
With more than 20 yrs. professional experience as a licensed psychotherapist, I have a genuine passion to help others & am committed to each client I serve. I have the willingness & capacity to listen closely to what is & isn't spoken with great empathy & compassion, while recognizing & appreciating the therapeutic pacing & timing of each individuals' process. I meet each client exactly where they are in their emotional, psychological & spiritual development & assist them in navigating through their own life challenges without judgement or criticism. I utilize therapeutic model(s) appropriate & effective that facilitate self awareness, understanding , & healing while inspiring hope.
With more than 20 yrs. professional experience as a licensed psychotherapist, I have a genuine passion to help others & am committed to each client I serve. I have the willingness & capacity to listen closely to what is & isn't spoken with great empathy & compassion, while recognizing & appreciating the therapeutic pacing & timing of each individuals' process. I meet each client exactly where they are in their emotional, psychological & spiritual development & assist them in navigating through their own life challenges without judgement or criticism. I utilize therapeutic model(s) appropriate & effective that facilitate self awareness, understanding , & healing while inspiring hope.
(978) 696-9653 View (978) 696-9653
Photo of Alyssa Brewer, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Alyssa Brewer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583
I really enjoy working with couples and maintain a strong focus on developing healthy communication skills, increasing understanding, and building intimacy and trust. I offer judgment free, empathy and understanding and a safe space for addressing any issue or topic. I also work with individuals on a multitude of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and bereavement, as well as blended family issues.
I really enjoy working with couples and maintain a strong focus on developing healthy communication skills, increasing understanding, and building intimacy and trust. I offer judgment free, empathy and understanding and a safe space for addressing any issue or topic. I also work with individuals on a multitude of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and bereavement, as well as blended family issues.
(508) 714-7718 View (508) 714-7718
Photo of Maxim M. Arbuzov, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maxim M. Arbuzov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Leominster, MA 01453
Maxim is a men's mental health specialist, with a compassionate and understanding approach, he is committed to supporting men through a variety of issues including relationship problems, intimacy concerns, sexual health, ADHD, PTSD, porn addiction, depression, panic and anxiety issues. 75% of todays therapists do not know how to work with men and their specific issues. Maxim's practice is centered on creating a safe and supportive environment where men can openly discuss and work through their struggles. His goal is to empower his clients, helping them to achieve a better understanding of themselves and their relationships.
Maxim is a men's mental health specialist, with a compassionate and understanding approach, he is committed to supporting men through a variety of issues including relationship problems, intimacy concerns, sexual health, ADHD, PTSD, porn addiction, depression, panic and anxiety issues. 75% of todays therapists do not know how to work with men and their specific issues. Maxim's practice is centered on creating a safe and supportive environment where men can openly discuss and work through their struggles. His goal is to empower his clients, helping them to achieve a better understanding of themselves and their relationships.
(857) 422-6556 View (857) 422-6556
Photo of Blanca Alicia Calderon, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Blanca Alicia Calderon
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (Español/English), bicultural, Mental Health Counselor with more than 20 years of experience working in both private practice and community health centers with diverse client population and multi-stressed families. I am specialized in treating anxiety, depression and post traumatic stress symptoms in which I often use the newer techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) where the resolution is sometimes rapid and symptoms no longer dominate your life.
I am a bilingual (Español/English), bicultural, Mental Health Counselor with more than 20 years of experience working in both private practice and community health centers with diverse client population and multi-stressed families. I am specialized in treating anxiety, depression and post traumatic stress symptoms in which I often use the newer techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) where the resolution is sometimes rapid and symptoms no longer dominate your life.
(774) 670-5719 View (774) 670-5719
Photo of Melanie Zibit, MEd, LADC1, MBA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Melanie Zibit
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LADC1, MBA
Verified Verified
Leominster, MA 01453
If you or a loved one has problems with substance, I can help. I work with people and families with substance issues- misuse of alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, and other addictive substances. My approach moves at your own pace, without pushing, digging, or agendas. I work with family members and loved ones to provide education and support to reduce feelings of isolation. I specialize in addiction, alcoholism, as well as co-occurring issues underlying addiction such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma. Through therapy things start to seem possible that didn’t seem that way before.
If you or a loved one has problems with substance, I can help. I work with people and families with substance issues- misuse of alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, and other addictive substances. My approach moves at your own pace, without pushing, digging, or agendas. I work with family members and loved ones to provide education and support to reduce feelings of isolation. I specialize in addiction, alcoholism, as well as co-occurring issues underlying addiction such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma. Through therapy things start to seem possible that didn’t seem that way before.
(339) 674-6669 View (339) 674-6669
Photo of Michele Waldron - Sexual Health and Healing LLC, PsyD, LADC-I, CSCT, Psychologist
Sexual Health and Healing LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LADC-I, CSCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01601  (Online Only)
We offer a sex positive approach to helping people with many sexual and relationship issues. We provide services for those with sexual dysfunction (problems with desire, arousal, orgasm, pain) and sexual compulsivity/infidelity. We utilize a trauma lens and support the relationship structure it may exist in. We support issues related desire, arousal, and orgasm. We help couples with desire discrepancies. Our clinicians use evidence-based approaches to offer guidance and education. They are kind, compassionate, empathic, and use humor to build a connection with you so they can walk beside you on your path.
We offer a sex positive approach to helping people with many sexual and relationship issues. We provide services for those with sexual dysfunction (problems with desire, arousal, orgasm, pain) and sexual compulsivity/infidelity. We utilize a trauma lens and support the relationship structure it may exist in. We support issues related desire, arousal, and orgasm. We help couples with desire discrepancies. Our clinicians use evidence-based approaches to offer guidance and education. They are kind, compassionate, empathic, and use humor to build a connection with you so they can walk beside you on your path.
(781) 676-3468 View (781) 676-3468
Photo of Cheryl White-Grier, MSW, SPED, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cheryl White-Grier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SPED
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01602
I am a licensed social worker with a diverse educational background from the University of Southern California, Mercy College, and Brooklyn College. In my practice, I utilize a 360-degree model of care, which integrates several evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address clients' unique needs holistically. These modalities allow me to effectively support clients experiencing a range of challenges, from anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship issues.
I am a licensed social worker with a diverse educational background from the University of Southern California, Mercy College, and Brooklyn College. In my practice, I utilize a 360-degree model of care, which integrates several evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address clients' unique needs holistically. These modalities allow me to effectively support clients experiencing a range of challenges, from anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship issues.
(508) 955-5135 View (508) 955-5135
Photo of Peter Corbett, LICSW , MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Corbett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01601
I'm excited to announce I've transitioned 75% of my work to serve as the Clinical Director of The Center for Healing Journeys (wneketamine.com), the first Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) clinic in western New England. KAP is a powerful effective new treatment using the only legal, by-prescription psychedelic. 20 years of research has proven ketamine to be safe in the clinic, and brings robust recovery from neuro-rigidified disorders such as intractable Depression, OCD, PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, and ruminative anxiety disorder: 70-80% success with most disorders and 85%+ combined with therapy. Clinic website: wneketamine.com
I'm excited to announce I've transitioned 75% of my work to serve as the Clinical Director of The Center for Healing Journeys (wneketamine.com), the first Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) clinic in western New England. KAP is a powerful effective new treatment using the only legal, by-prescription psychedelic. 20 years of research has proven ketamine to be safe in the clinic, and brings robust recovery from neuro-rigidified disorders such as intractable Depression, OCD, PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, and ruminative anxiety disorder: 70-80% success with most disorders and 85%+ combined with therapy. Clinic website: wneketamine.com
(413) 579-6185 View (413) 579-6185
Photo of Marie C Morgan, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie C Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01602  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I believe in offering an integrated therapeutic approach, one that incorporates a variety of healing methods tailored to your individual needs. My style is warm, compassionate, and thoughtful. I aim to offer a calming presence that will carefully help you navigate your path forward. Clients often share that they feel comfortable with me right away. Together, in a safe and supportive space, we can support your development toward a healthier you in mind, body, and spirit.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I believe in offering an integrated therapeutic approach, one that incorporates a variety of healing methods tailored to your individual needs. My style is warm, compassionate, and thoughtful. I aim to offer a calming presence that will carefully help you navigate your path forward. Clients often share that they feel comfortable with me right away. Together, in a safe and supportive space, we can support your development toward a healthier you in mind, body, and spirit.
(351) 666-5921 View (351) 666-5921
Photo of Colin J. Connor, PsyD, Psychologist
Colin J. Connor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
Not accepting new clients
With couples and families, I utilize Imago and Gottman Method techniques.
Taking the first steps to seek help may seem daunting when you don't know what to expect from therapy. My approach is to work collaboratively with you to identify your desired changes and to problem-solve how to achieve your goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have experience helping clients with a variety of concerns, with current passions of couples therapy and EMDR. Overall, I work with you to bolster awareness, self-confidence, and interpersonal communication while addressing your specific goals.
With couples and families, I utilize Imago and Gottman Method techniques.
Taking the first steps to seek help may seem daunting when you don't know what to expect from therapy. My approach is to work collaboratively with you to identify your desired changes and to problem-solve how to achieve your goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have experience helping clients with a variety of concerns, with current passions of couples therapy and EMDR. Overall, I work with you to bolster awareness, self-confidence, and interpersonal communication while addressing your specific goals.
(508) 658-9051 View (508) 658-9051
Photo of Dave Russo - Dave Russo, LMFT, LMHC, LMFT, LMHC, Counselor
Dave Russo, LMFT, LMHC
Counselor, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Holden, MA 01520
Not accepting new clients
Dave is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT); a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC); a Pastoral Counselor; and a Level II EMDR Therapist; and has taught in the pastoral counseling graduate program at Assumption College. Dave's academic work includes dual majors in Religious Studies and Psychology at Assumption College; a Master's degree in Theological Studies and Pastoral Counseling at the Claremont School of Theology (CA); and two years of post-graduate academic work in pastoral counseling at Claremont.
Dave is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT); a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC); a Pastoral Counselor; and a Level II EMDR Therapist; and has taught in the pastoral counseling graduate program at Assumption College. Dave's academic work includes dual majors in Religious Studies and Psychology at Assumption College; a Master's degree in Theological Studies and Pastoral Counseling at the Claremont School of Theology (CA); and two years of post-graduate academic work in pastoral counseling at Claremont.
(508) 455-5114 View (508) 455-5114

Online Therapists

Photo of Kate Moschandreas, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Kate Moschandreas
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
For my work with couples and families, I use relationship-informed therapeutic modalities, including the Gottman couples method, Imago communication tools, and family systems theory.
I love helping clients who feel stuck with anxiety, depression, or trauma become “unstuck.” In my therapy space, I strive to create a supportive environment for people to explore their emotions – and the experiences that shaped those emotions. With individuals, couples, and families, I work collaboratively to understand how previous dynamics, especially with families of origin, contribute to their current thoughts and coping skills. When clients understand how their past relationships influence their current selves, they are better able to build new futures, with greater self-acceptance, growth, new skills, and overall happiness.
For my work with couples and families, I use relationship-informed therapeutic modalities, including the Gottman couples method, Imago communication tools, and family systems theory.
I love helping clients who feel stuck with anxiety, depression, or trauma become “unstuck.” In my therapy space, I strive to create a supportive environment for people to explore their emotions – and the experiences that shaped those emotions. With individuals, couples, and families, I work collaboratively to understand how previous dynamics, especially with families of origin, contribute to their current thoughts and coping skills. When clients understand how their past relationships influence their current selves, they are better able to build new futures, with greater self-acceptance, growth, new skills, and overall happiness.
(781) 512-6974 View (781) 512-6974
Photo of Ani (Anne) Nadler Grosser, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ani (Anne) Nadler Grosser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenox, MA 01240
In my 30 years as a therapist with individuals, couples and groups, I have been a sustaining presence and catalyst for people to open to new possibilities for themselves and make life-affirming choices. My specialties include couples counseling, relationship and women's issues, group facilitation. I am a Certified Imago Relationships therapist and a Safe Conversations Leader (safeconversations.com). I meet with clients in person and on zoom. At this time, I am only accepting new referrals for couples therapy. I love facilitating groups, and this Fall I will start a new group for women around issues of growing older.
In my 30 years as a therapist with individuals, couples and groups, I have been a sustaining presence and catalyst for people to open to new possibilities for themselves and make life-affirming choices. My specialties include couples counseling, relationship and women's issues, group facilitation. I am a Certified Imago Relationships therapist and a Safe Conversations Leader (safeconversations.com). I meet with clients in person and on zoom. At this time, I am only accepting new referrals for couples therapy. I love facilitating groups, and this Fall I will start a new group for women around issues of growing older.
(413) 676-9923 View (413) 676-9923
Photo of Janet Winocour, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Winocour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Janet Winocour works with individual adults and couples and has been leading a 15 week separation/divorce support group for over 30 years. The next group will start in September 2024. Janet specializes in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, loss and trauma. She is a certified Imago Couples Therapist, certified group therapist and is trained in IFS(Internal Family Systems) and EFT (Emotional Freedon Technique). Several times a year, Janet co-leads a day long Couples Connection Workshop that combines communication theories and techniques to help couples build a more meaningful and intentional relationship.
Janet Winocour works with individual adults and couples and has been leading a 15 week separation/divorce support group for over 30 years. The next group will start in September 2024. Janet specializes in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, loss and trauma. She is a certified Imago Couples Therapist, certified group therapist and is trained in IFS(Internal Family Systems) and EFT (Emotional Freedon Technique). Several times a year, Janet co-leads a day long Couples Connection Workshop that combines communication theories and techniques to help couples build a more meaningful and intentional relationship.
(978) 705-6012 View (978) 705-6012
Photo of Rebecca Hecht, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Hecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
Specialties include a mindfulness and self caring approach with individuals that fosters optimal balance of mind, body and spirit and the Imago listening and mirroring techniques with relationships that teaches deeply connective communication.
I optimally resonate with clients who are interested in self awareness and taking responsibility for the part that they play in life and relational challenges. They are committed to healing past traumas in order to be able to live as fully as possible in the present. The understanding that self transformation very naturally attracts qualitative experiences and relationships enables psychotherapy and connective couples work to be optimally beneficial.
Specialties include a mindfulness and self caring approach with individuals that fosters optimal balance of mind, body and spirit and the Imago listening and mirroring techniques with relationships that teaches deeply connective communication.
I optimally resonate with clients who are interested in self awareness and taking responsibility for the part that they play in life and relational challenges. They are committed to healing past traumas in order to be able to live as fully as possible in the present. The understanding that self transformation very naturally attracts qualitative experiences and relationships enables psychotherapy and connective couples work to be optimally beneficial.
(781) 218-7213 View (781) 218-7213
Photo of Carita M Anderson, PhD, Psychologist
Carita M Anderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
Waitlist for new clients
Imago Relationship Therapy is an effective, loving and compassionate approach to bridging the distance between you and your partner! The principles and practices of Imago Therapy have touched thousands of lives.
At the Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, we help patients to increase the emotional and physical connections in their lives, whether it is with a partner, children, parents, or themselves. Our patients find that we can facilitate their ability to look at tough issues, communicate with others, accept themselves, and reach mutually agreed upon goals. You can learn how to regulate your body, be less reactive, and have empathy and compassion for yourself and others. The only thing you have control over is how you respond in a situation.
Imago Relationship Therapy is an effective, loving and compassionate approach to bridging the distance between you and your partner! The principles and practices of Imago Therapy have touched thousands of lives.
At the Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, we help patients to increase the emotional and physical connections in their lives, whether it is with a partner, children, parents, or themselves. Our patients find that we can facilitate their ability to look at tough issues, communicate with others, accept themselves, and reach mutually agreed upon goals. You can learn how to regulate your body, be less reactive, and have empathy and compassion for yourself and others. The only thing you have control over is how you respond in a situation.
(617) 981-6529 View (617) 981-6529
Photo of Avital Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Avital Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
My modalities for treatment include: Brainspotting, Imago, Narrative Therapy, Talk Therapy, Grief and Loss Therapy, and more.
When life changes happen unexpectedly, it can be hard to reach out for support. It's important to me to be a safe space for those experiencing any range of life shifts, including: personal and relational roadblocks, sexuality issues, life transitions, trauma and grief and loss. I strive to meet my clients where they are, and adapt to their individual needs and framework. I work from a person-centered/ trauma-informed lens, and use strengths-based perspective, mindfulness, and humanistic therapies. I hope to work together to create new patterns of thinking to guide you towards the personal, and professional goals you wish to achieve.
My modalities for treatment include: Brainspotting, Imago, Narrative Therapy, Talk Therapy, Grief and Loss Therapy, and more.
When life changes happen unexpectedly, it can be hard to reach out for support. It's important to me to be a safe space for those experiencing any range of life shifts, including: personal and relational roadblocks, sexuality issues, life transitions, trauma and grief and loss. I strive to meet my clients where they are, and adapt to their individual needs and framework. I work from a person-centered/ trauma-informed lens, and use strengths-based perspective, mindfulness, and humanistic therapies. I hope to work together to create new patterns of thinking to guide you towards the personal, and professional goals you wish to achieve.
(857) 367-0660 View (857) 367-0660
Photo of Anne Parente - Anne Parente, LICSW, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Parente, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
Certified in Gestalt, Imago Relationship Skills, Life Coaching, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, I've assisted SE training in both the US and Canada.
*I am not able to accept new clients at this time.* By listening deeply, providing insight, coaching and support we collaborate to move past self-defeating patterns that interfere with your living well. As a seasoned psychotherapist and life coach with 30 years experience I believe in each person's singular life path and inherent capacity to heal and grow. Drawing on mindfulness and body-based wisdom we focus your strengths to transform fear into hope, confusion into direction. I work well with people who are stuck emotionally in themselves or in their relationships; people who have experienced trauma; people desiring change.
Certified in Gestalt, Imago Relationship Skills, Life Coaching, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, I've assisted SE training in both the US and Canada.
*I am not able to accept new clients at this time.* By listening deeply, providing insight, coaching and support we collaborate to move past self-defeating patterns that interfere with your living well. As a seasoned psychotherapist and life coach with 30 years experience I believe in each person's singular life path and inherent capacity to heal and grow. Drawing on mindfulness and body-based wisdom we focus your strengths to transform fear into hope, confusion into direction. I work well with people who are stuck emotionally in themselves or in their relationships; people who have experienced trauma; people desiring change.
(413) 239-3444 View (413) 239-3444
Photo of Jacqueline Diaz Maldonado, LMHC MA, LMHC CT, LMHC VT, LMHC NV, LPC/JD, Counselor
Jacqueline Diaz Maldonado
Counselor, LMHC MA, LMHC CT, LMHC VT, LMHC NV, LPC/JD
Verified Verified
West Springfield, MA 01089  (Online Only)
I offer Developmental, IFIO, Imago, Drama Triangle, Boundaries and Schema Therapy for couples.
Telehealth sessions only. I use experiential techniques and integrative psychotherapy: Attachment Focus EMDR, Creative Arts EMDR, Internal Family Systems, ACT, Schema Therapy, Child Work, Integral Deep Listening, Ego States, DBT and STAIR. I offer dating, premarital, couples and Family Counseling. If you are looking understand and manage traumatic experiences, child wounds and to improve your relationships I am here to help you go deep into those problems. I offer supportive counseling using Christian concepts and ! accept clients of all religions and beliefs. Hypnosis services ( check your insurance and condition first)
I offer Developmental, IFIO, Imago, Drama Triangle, Boundaries and Schema Therapy for couples.
Telehealth sessions only. I use experiential techniques and integrative psychotherapy: Attachment Focus EMDR, Creative Arts EMDR, Internal Family Systems, ACT, Schema Therapy, Child Work, Integral Deep Listening, Ego States, DBT and STAIR. I offer dating, premarital, couples and Family Counseling. If you are looking understand and manage traumatic experiences, child wounds and to improve your relationships I am here to help you go deep into those problems. I offer supportive counseling using Christian concepts and ! accept clients of all religions and beliefs. Hypnosis services ( check your insurance and condition first)
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Photo of Masha Feldman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Masha Feldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
It is possible to have that close connection, passion, understanding and trust in your relationship with your partner, that you once imagined but might have given up on. We all want our partner to be there for us and to listen to us with compassion and understanding. Imago Couples Therapy helps us figure out and heal what is preventing us from having this amazing relationship that we want. The clues usually lie in our past. I can help you and your partner really understand and give each other what you need at the core of your being.
It is possible to have that close connection, passion, understanding and trust in your relationship with your partner, that you once imagined but might have given up on. We all want our partner to be there for us and to listen to us with compassion and understanding. Imago Couples Therapy helps us figure out and heal what is preventing us from having this amazing relationship that we want. The clues usually lie in our past. I can help you and your partner really understand and give each other what you need at the core of your being.
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See more therapy options for Worcester 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.