Imago Therapists in Bel Air, MD

Photo of Michael W Senko, LCSW-C, CIRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael W Senko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CIRT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014  (Online Only)
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including but not limited to Imago Relationship Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurobiology, Attachment Theory, and the principles of compassion and kindness as they apply to our understanding of our world through scientific theory.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need a hand to help us through dark moments. Asking for help is a strength, and you deserve respect for your bravery in getting this far in your search. It is an honor to work with my clients to help them accomplish their life and relationship goals. We do our best work when we feel comfortable, therefore my practice is based on compassion and acceptance. Sometimes emotions and situations are overwhelming. However, it doesn't have to be that way. Allow me to help empower you to gain control over your life. Learn new ways to cope with your world and your relationships.
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including but not limited to Imago Relationship Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurobiology, Attachment Theory, and the principles of compassion and kindness as they apply to our understanding of our world through scientific theory.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need a hand to help us through dark moments. Asking for help is a strength, and you deserve respect for your bravery in getting this far in your search. It is an honor to work with my clients to help them accomplish their life and relationship goals. We do our best work when we feel comfortable, therefore my practice is based on compassion and acceptance. Sometimes emotions and situations are overwhelming. However, it doesn't have to be that way. Allow me to help empower you to gain control over your life. Learn new ways to cope with your world and your relationships.
(443) 879-9959 View (443) 879-9959
Photo of Lisa A Early, LCPC, MA
Lisa A Early
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014
Throughout life everyone experiences varying degrees of struggle which often feel completely unmanageable when we try to brave it alone. The shame and embarrassment that can be associated with asking for help can be paralyzing and can leave us writhing in pain and feeling alone. When in reality, the ability to recognize the need for support is something that should be celebrated and admired. If you are brave enough to reach out, you deserve a safe space of non judgment, empathy, compassion and understanding where you can sort through your concerns and learn the skills to eventually better manage them on your own.
Throughout life everyone experiences varying degrees of struggle which often feel completely unmanageable when we try to brave it alone. The shame and embarrassment that can be associated with asking for help can be paralyzing and can leave us writhing in pain and feeling alone. When in reality, the ability to recognize the need for support is something that should be celebrated and admired. If you are brave enough to reach out, you deserve a safe space of non judgment, empathy, compassion and understanding where you can sort through your concerns and learn the skills to eventually better manage them on your own.
(443) 241-2077 View (443) 241-2077
Photo of Jessica L Smith, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica L Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015
If you are ready to gain insight and learn new perspective in order to make positive changes in your life, I’m here to help. By seeking therapy, you are demonstrating the courage to hold space for difficult emotions while working toward positive change. Everyone needs space to process and explore without feeling judged, and you deserve happiness and the ability to overcome or better cope with life’s challenges. If you're motivated to heal and grow in your relationship or as an individual, I'm here to help you get started and walk through this journey alongside you!
If you are ready to gain insight and learn new perspective in order to make positive changes in your life, I’m here to help. By seeking therapy, you are demonstrating the courage to hold space for difficult emotions while working toward positive change. Everyone needs space to process and explore without feeling judged, and you deserve happiness and the ability to overcome or better cope with life’s challenges. If you're motivated to heal and grow in your relationship or as an individual, I'm here to help you get started and walk through this journey alongside you!
(667) 220-9304 View (667) 220-9304
Photo of Susan J Ruckel - Susan J. Ruckel LCSW-C, Licensed Psychotherapist, BS, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan J. Ruckel LCSW-C, Licensed Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
My aim is to help individuals create a rich and meaningful life, while effectively handling the pain and stress that life inevitably brings. My goal is to respectfully treat and engage with clients in an emotionally safe environment. My passions are treating individuals, couples and families who wish to improve their relationships, are going through life transitions or have mental health concerns. I provide in-person sessions at my offices in Bel Air, MD or come to my new office in Street, MD and you will be welcomed to a serene space nestled in the woods of this lovely community. Secure Telehealth is also available.
My aim is to help individuals create a rich and meaningful life, while effectively handling the pain and stress that life inevitably brings. My goal is to respectfully treat and engage with clients in an emotionally safe environment. My passions are treating individuals, couples and families who wish to improve their relationships, are going through life transitions or have mental health concerns. I provide in-person sessions at my offices in Bel Air, MD or come to my new office in Street, MD and you will be welcomed to a serene space nestled in the woods of this lovely community. Secure Telehealth is also available.
(443) 471-8929 View (443) 471-8929
Photo of Jennifer Wiejaczka, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Wiejaczka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014
I am currently accepting new clients. Therapy can be a great way to begin a journey to a better place where we feel more connected in our relationships and experience more meaning in our lives. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with individuals to help them create positive changes to build a better future. As a therapist, I aim to help my clients build strategies to help them overcome their current situations and symptoms. Through developing greater insight and building self-awareness, I work to to help clients grow in a new direction and break away from old patterns.
I am currently accepting new clients. Therapy can be a great way to begin a journey to a better place where we feel more connected in our relationships and experience more meaning in our lives. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with individuals to help them create positive changes to build a better future. As a therapist, I aim to help my clients build strategies to help them overcome their current situations and symptoms. Through developing greater insight and building self-awareness, I work to to help clients grow in a new direction and break away from old patterns.
(410) 755-5493 View (410) 755-5493
Photo of Donica Harper, PhD, LCPC
Donica Harper
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015
Are you feeling invisible? Angry about a breakup? Have you recently experienced a loss/death? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing more pain, burnout, and/or fatigue than normal? Does your adolescent need extra support? Is your family/relationship falling apart? If your answer to any of these questions is "Yes," or even if you have questions of your own, it may be time to reach out and talk through those thoughts and feelings. I would be delighted to be the person you reach out to.
Are you feeling invisible? Angry about a breakup? Have you recently experienced a loss/death? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing more pain, burnout, and/or fatigue than normal? Does your adolescent need extra support? Is your family/relationship falling apart? If your answer to any of these questions is "Yes," or even if you have questions of your own, it may be time to reach out and talk through those thoughts and feelings. I would be delighted to be the person you reach out to.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristina Worton, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Worton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Abingdon, MD 21009  (Online Only)
I believe everything about a person makes sense given where they’ve come from and what they’ve gone through. From this belief, I work with my clients to view their experiences through a lens of self-compassion and empower them to make the changes they want to see in their lives. While I have worked with people of all ages, my more recent work is focused with individuals ranging from late adolescents through adulthood. Whether you’re looking to address challenges due to recent life changes or dealing with the impact of unresolved childhood experiences I am here to help you achieve your goals.
I believe everything about a person makes sense given where they’ve come from and what they’ve gone through. From this belief, I work with my clients to view their experiences through a lens of self-compassion and empower them to make the changes they want to see in their lives. While I have worked with people of all ages, my more recent work is focused with individuals ranging from late adolescents through adulthood. Whether you’re looking to address challenges due to recent life changes or dealing with the impact of unresolved childhood experiences I am here to help you achieve your goals.
(443) 903-2239 View (443) 903-2239

Online Therapists

Photo of David Christy, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Christy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
I have a relationship-driven approach to helping clients live happier, more fulfilling lives. I rely mainly on psychodynamic, humanistic and existential perspectives. I have experience helping clients process grief, loss and trauma; strengthen relationships; set boundaries; and achieve general life satisfaction. I work primarily with adult individuals, couples and groups. My work with couples is informed by training in the Gottman Method and Imago. For couples in which one partner is leaning out, considering divorce but not completely sure it's the best path, I offer Discernment Counseling.
I have a relationship-driven approach to helping clients live happier, more fulfilling lives. I rely mainly on psychodynamic, humanistic and existential perspectives. I have experience helping clients process grief, loss and trauma; strengthen relationships; set boundaries; and achieve general life satisfaction. I work primarily with adult individuals, couples and groups. My work with couples is informed by training in the Gottman Method and Imago. For couples in which one partner is leaning out, considering divorce but not completely sure it's the best path, I offer Discernment Counseling.
(240) 823-5325 View (240) 823-5325
Photo of Samantha Steinfeld, Counselor
Samantha Steinfeld
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
As a certified Imago therapist, I specialize in enhancing communication, connection, and empathy within couples and families.
Hi, I’m Samantha! I specialize in helping individuals and couples through various life challenges, including creating more fulfilling relationships, exploring identity, and managing chronic illness. My therapeutic approach is informed by my diverse background as a therapist, sex educator, and chronic illness advocate. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore and process their experiences, find validation, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and of their relationships. I am dedicated to providing a supportive environment where you can heal, grow, and live authentically.
As a certified Imago therapist, I specialize in enhancing communication, connection, and empathy within couples and families.
Hi, I’m Samantha! I specialize in helping individuals and couples through various life challenges, including creating more fulfilling relationships, exploring identity, and managing chronic illness. My therapeutic approach is informed by my diverse background as a therapist, sex educator, and chronic illness advocate. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore and process their experiences, find validation, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and of their relationships. I am dedicated to providing a supportive environment where you can heal, grow, and live authentically.
(240) 213-9371 View (240) 213-9371
Photo of Gwen Enfield Pearl, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Enfield Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
Awarded a "Top Marriage and Sex Therapist" by Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 and 2012, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Imago Relationship Couples and Singles Therapist, Advanced Imago Clinician and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
There are times when things are not going as well as we'd like in our family, social or work relationships, particularly post-Covid. You may feel alone, depressed, anxious, or have conflict or discomfort with those you care about. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples, individuals & families restore their sense of well being and connection. People learn how to be more present and intentional in accordance with their values. Partners learn to be safely available to each other through a dialogue process that teaches more effective listening, deeper understanding and empathy. In person and Telehealth meetings are offered.
(202) 618-9869 View (202) 618-9869
Photo of Nancy Hyatt, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Hyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
My work integrates my experience as an Advanced Imago Therapist, EMDR therapist, training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, HeartMath, Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Coaching and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I have been helping individuals and couples transform their lives for over 25 years. My work is holistic. We target the root causes of your distress rather than skimming the surface level of symptoms. Only when root causes are addressed can symptoms dissolve. We dive deeply into the core issues that are keeping you stuck, disconnected and dissatisfied in your life and relationships. The process is efficient, effective, respectful, safe and profound. My ideal clients are people who are passionate about healing and releasing patterns that no longer serve them.
(202) 796-6091 View (202) 796-6091
Photo of Rebecca Whitmore, LCSW-C, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Whitmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I use contemporary modalities based in neuroscience including; IFS, EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Sand Therapy, Mindfulness, and Somatic Intervention.
We overcome difficulties, adjust to changes, and manage difficult emotions best when we do not have to go at it alone. I offer a supportive partnership to help you identify your goals and build capacity to experience joy, compassionate self regard, and healthy rewarding relationships. I have over 35 years of experience helping children, couples, adults, and parents who experience feeling stuck, alone, sad, anxious, or unable to find the forward motion to reach goals for well being. Together we can create a safe space to address difficult emotions, and identify resources and habits that support resiliency and wellness.
I use contemporary modalities based in neuroscience including; IFS, EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Sand Therapy, Mindfulness, and Somatic Intervention.
We overcome difficulties, adjust to changes, and manage difficult emotions best when we do not have to go at it alone. I offer a supportive partnership to help you identify your goals and build capacity to experience joy, compassionate self regard, and healthy rewarding relationships. I have over 35 years of experience helping children, couples, adults, and parents who experience feeling stuck, alone, sad, anxious, or unable to find the forward motion to reach goals for well being. Together we can create a safe space to address difficult emotions, and identify resources and habits that support resiliency and wellness.
(240) 775-2294 View (240) 775-2294
Photo of Tory Joseph, MEd, LCPC
Tory Joseph
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I offer a warm, accepting approach to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a workshop presenter, parent educator and counselor, I have experienced positive results with hundreds of families. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, I work with couples on improving relationships. Teaching positive parenting techniques, I help parents of both young children and teens to solve problems, and create a healthy, successful family life.
I offer a warm, accepting approach to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a workshop presenter, parent educator and counselor, I have experienced positive results with hundreds of families. Using Imago Relationship Therapy, I work with couples on improving relationships. Teaching positive parenting techniques, I help parents of both young children and teens to solve problems, and create a healthy, successful family life.
(301) 205-5368 View (301) 205-5368
Photo of Megan A Szczepanik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan A Szczepanik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I am certified Imago therapist, providing couple's counseling, intensive programs, and weekend workshops.
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime together or are just beginning your journey, relationships provide us with priceless opportunities to learn, grow, and heal. So often, we see conflict and power struggles as “warning signs” rather than precious growth gifts. How can this be when conflict with our partner is so painful? The answer lies in the struggle itself. Beneath the anger, there nearly always lies hurt, disappointment, fear, or sadness. The Imago relationship approach challenges us to embrace our vulnerability and communicate with our partner openly and without fear. When we are heard and truly seen, healing begins.
I am certified Imago therapist, providing couple's counseling, intensive programs, and weekend workshops.
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime together or are just beginning your journey, relationships provide us with priceless opportunities to learn, grow, and heal. So often, we see conflict and power struggles as “warning signs” rather than precious growth gifts. How can this be when conflict with our partner is so painful? The answer lies in the struggle itself. Beneath the anger, there nearly always lies hurt, disappointment, fear, or sadness. The Imago relationship approach challenges us to embrace our vulnerability and communicate with our partner openly and without fear. When we are heard and truly seen, healing begins.
(727) 269-5426 View (727) 269-5426
Photo of Jonathan Ladd, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Ladd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I tailor my approach to my clients' particular situations and unique personalities, drawing from: Imago Therapy (as a Certified Advanced Imago Clinician), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Susan Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and more.
Looking for relationship help? To relieve the pain or find better ways to manage? The "secrets" of dealing skillfully with difficulties, differences and hurts, are not really secrets: you CAN learn these and many more relationship skills if you are curious, motivated and persistent. I'd like to help you: a) address and relieve your most pressing problems, b) set clear, realistic goals, and c) learn to avoid a tremendous amount of headache and heartache in the future. Our collaboration may yield a lifetime of benefits.
I tailor my approach to my clients' particular situations and unique personalities, drawing from: Imago Therapy (as a Certified Advanced Imago Clinician), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Susan Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and more.
Looking for relationship help? To relieve the pain or find better ways to manage? The "secrets" of dealing skillfully with difficulties, differences and hurts, are not really secrets: you CAN learn these and many more relationship skills if you are curious, motivated and persistent. I'd like to help you: a) address and relieve your most pressing problems, b) set clear, realistic goals, and c) learn to avoid a tremendous amount of headache and heartache in the future. Our collaboration may yield a lifetime of benefits.
(301) 278-8681 View (301) 278-8681
Photo of Tenneh Johnson Kemah, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tenneh Johnson Kemah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046
I am trained in many techniques, including Cognitive Therapies, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brainspotting, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman, Imago, and Grief Counseling.
When you are looking for a therapist, that decision often comes during times of crisis. This loss of balance and connection makes it hard to make decisions or trust anyone. But as you take this first step, I will honor your trust with a relationship that is free of judgement and focused on finding your foundation. Whether you are coping with trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, life transition, relationship or marital issues, we can work together to make things better. I bring to the table a deep knowledge of a diverse set of treatment methods that allow me to tailor your therapy uniquely to your personality, challenges and life.
I am trained in many techniques, including Cognitive Therapies, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brainspotting, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman, Imago, and Grief Counseling.
When you are looking for a therapist, that decision often comes during times of crisis. This loss of balance and connection makes it hard to make decisions or trust anyone. But as you take this first step, I will honor your trust with a relationship that is free of judgement and focused on finding your foundation. Whether you are coping with trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, life transition, relationship or marital issues, we can work together to make things better. I bring to the table a deep knowledge of a diverse set of treatment methods that allow me to tailor your therapy uniquely to your personality, challenges and life.
(667) 200-0575 View (667) 200-0575
Photo of Jamice A Holley, NCC, LCPC, MDV, Counselor
Jamice A Holley
Counselor, NCC, LCPC, MDV
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hanover, MD 21076
Imago is a theory used to help couples establish a connection as I help guide and facilitate a dialogue to help them connect and discover better ways to communicate.
No matter what life has thrown your way or what you have experienced over time, you can recover. Healing occurs through a reparative therapeutic relationship, which helps you connect to the relationship first with yourself, family and friends, and the world surrounding you. I am enthusiastic about working with adults and couples. I offer an open, brave, and safe space to help support my clients in their healing to become the best version of themselves. I am gentle in my approach. However, I do confront matters to help you dig a little deeper to help you connect with the insight for your healing.
Imago is a theory used to help couples establish a connection as I help guide and facilitate a dialogue to help them connect and discover better ways to communicate.
No matter what life has thrown your way or what you have experienced over time, you can recover. Healing occurs through a reparative therapeutic relationship, which helps you connect to the relationship first with yourself, family and friends, and the world surrounding you. I am enthusiastic about working with adults and couples. I offer an open, brave, and safe space to help support my clients in their healing to become the best version of themselves. I am gentle in my approach. However, I do confront matters to help you dig a little deeper to help you connect with the insight for your healing.
(301) 409-4113 View (301) 409-4113
Photo of Vernon Byrd Coulon, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vernon Byrd Coulon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, certified Gestalt Practitioner with extensive training in Sand Tray therapy; a certified Qigong instructor and certified Emotional Freedom Techniques energy psychology practitioner.
We all deserve to be happy. Sometimes events and circumstances may get in our way. Using holistic approaches to compliment traditional talk therapy, I hope you will let me help you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Whether you are dealing with traumatic issues or life challenges, these methods work! As one client shared with me, "after years in talk therapy, this is the first time that I am beginning to feel integrated and whole." If you are ready, please accept my offer to share this journey with you.
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, certified Gestalt Practitioner with extensive training in Sand Tray therapy; a certified Qigong instructor and certified Emotional Freedom Techniques energy psychology practitioner.
We all deserve to be happy. Sometimes events and circumstances may get in our way. Using holistic approaches to compliment traditional talk therapy, I hope you will let me help you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Whether you are dealing with traumatic issues or life challenges, these methods work! As one client shared with me, "after years in talk therapy, this is the first time that I am beginning to feel integrated and whole." If you are ready, please accept my offer to share this journey with you.
(301) 804-2305 View (301) 804-2305
Photo of Ruth Milsten, MSW, LCSW-C, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Milsten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by my site. I'm at: www.reclaimwellnesstherapy.com. I work with adults, ages 18 and up, and couples, who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, grief, low self esteem, difficulty making decisions or setting boundaries, highly sensitive people, relationship issues, attachment concerns, career struggles, poor body image and new parent concerns. I’m committed to affirming identities for all folks and honor each client as a unique individual, who is the expert of their own journey of self-discovery, healing and growth. I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, CNM and Polyamory aware and allied. I also offer Imago couples therapy.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by my site. I'm at: www.reclaimwellnesstherapy.com. I work with adults, ages 18 and up, and couples, who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, grief, low self esteem, difficulty making decisions or setting boundaries, highly sensitive people, relationship issues, attachment concerns, career struggles, poor body image and new parent concerns. I’m committed to affirming identities for all folks and honor each client as a unique individual, who is the expert of their own journey of self-discovery, healing and growth. I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, CNM and Polyamory aware and allied. I also offer Imago couples therapy.
(410) 266-7864 View (410) 266-7864
Photo of Inna Zusman Family Therapist, LGPC, PHR, MC, Counselor
Inna Zusman Family Therapist
Counselor, LGPC, PHR, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
I specialize in attachment style therapy, Gottman, and Imago therapy.
Are you struggling with high-conflict family situations, especially in a blended, multicultural, or multigenerational family? Navigating relationships before, during, or after a divorce can be incredibly challenging. You are not alone. It’s possible to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships. I understand the difficulties and stress these dynamics bring. I'm here to support you in creating a harmonious family environment, ensuring the well-being and happiness of every member. We can find a path to peace and collaboration within your family.
I specialize in attachment style therapy, Gottman, and Imago therapy.
Are you struggling with high-conflict family situations, especially in a blended, multicultural, or multigenerational family? Navigating relationships before, during, or after a divorce can be incredibly challenging. You are not alone. It’s possible to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships. I understand the difficulties and stress these dynamics bring. I'm here to support you in creating a harmonious family environment, ensuring the well-being and happiness of every member. We can find a path to peace and collaboration within your family.
(301) 381-3083 View (301) 381-3083
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.