Imago Therapists in Chevy Chase, MD
![Photo of Gwen Enfield Pearl, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41d0e983-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Alan L Marcus, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a18563-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Picking a therapist to work with can be overwhelming. Feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist is critical. During our first session we will explore what brought you to me. Together we identify your struggles, develop a treatment plan, discuss whether you feel comfortable with me, and that our plan makes sense to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. A certified IMAGO, Gottman, Equine Assisted and Diplomat in Sex Therapy, we will talk openly and candidly about your life. Together, we will explore your concerns, past and present and mindfully identify changes for you to consider.
Picking a therapist to work with can be overwhelming. Feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist is critical. During our first session we will explore what brought you to me. Together we identify your struggles, develop a treatment plan, discuss whether you feel comfortable with me, and that our plan makes sense to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. A certified IMAGO, Gottman, Equine Assisted and Diplomat in Sex Therapy, we will talk openly and candidly about your life. Together, we will explore your concerns, past and present and mindfully identify changes for you to consider.
![Photo of Anne Ateeka B Contee, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48c0d6c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Ateeka B Contee
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
I provide professional counseling services integrated with a holistic, bottom-up approach emphasizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit. As a yoga and mindfulness teacher for 18 years, I often incorporate several mindfulness practices into my therapy sessions. As a Certified Imago Therapist, I work with individual couples along South Asian and African American families dealing with issues related to generational trauma to identity formation and assimilation. I am an EMDR trained and Trauma-informed Yoga teacher. I am a certified nature-informed therapist specializing in equine-assisted trauma-informed therapy.
I provide professional counseling services integrated with a holistic, bottom-up approach emphasizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit. As a yoga and mindfulness teacher for 18 years, I often incorporate several mindfulness practices into my therapy sessions. As a Certified Imago Therapist, I work with individual couples along South Asian and African American families dealing with issues related to generational trauma to identity formation and assimilation. I am an EMDR trained and Trauma-informed Yoga teacher. I am a certified nature-informed therapist specializing in equine-assisted trauma-informed therapy.
![Photo of Deborah J Fox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a11b15-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah J Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
My style of relationship therapy, rooted in Imago therapy, is particularly effective in helping couples develop safe and more loving relationships, in which pain and conflict are turned into an opportunity for growth and greater closeness.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me.
We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
My style of relationship therapy, rooted in Imago therapy, is particularly effective in helping couples develop safe and more loving relationships, in which pain and conflict are turned into an opportunity for growth and greater closeness.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me.
We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
![Photo of Dr. Melissa Marshall - Melissa D. Marshall, LLC, PhD, LCPC, NCC, MBTI-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482db261-914f-413b-868a-6cc21af05fbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa D. Marshall, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, MBTI-C
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
I use CBT, EFT, Imago and other therapeutic methods in my practice.
Are you planning to get married and you want to strengthen your relationship? Or, are you having problems in your marriage? Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Are you trying to determine if you both can stay in your marriage? Is your blended family not blending as well as you hoped? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we can discuss them in-depth and help build your relational skills.
I use CBT, EFT, Imago and other therapeutic methods in my practice.
Are you planning to get married and you want to strengthen your relationship? Or, are you having problems in your marriage? Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Are you trying to determine if you both can stay in your marriage? Is your blended family not blending as well as you hoped? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we can discuss them in-depth and help build your relational skills.
![Photo of Sheila Cohen, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/457abb4e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you have concerns, worries or anxieties or feel overwhelmed sometimes, we can look at these together and work toward resolution in a relationship of trust, empathy, insight and honesty. I search for each person's strengths to enable them to have more control over their life. Most people have difficulty in relationships..........with friends, family members, or individuals in their work setting. We work together on improving communication to empower you to be more successful.
If you have concerns, worries or anxieties or feel overwhelmed sometimes, we can look at these together and work toward resolution in a relationship of trust, empathy, insight and honesty. I search for each person's strengths to enable them to have more control over their life. Most people have difficulty in relationships..........with friends, family members, or individuals in their work setting. We work together on improving communication to empower you to be more successful.
![Photo of Julia Kirvan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd1001de-2f6a-444d-9e81-cb010191294c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Kirvan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
"Are you experiencing conflicts in your relationships? Are you feeling depressed, anxious or irritable?
Finding a therapist you can connect with to help you explore an unbiased view of your struggles or concerns can be difficult.
As a clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience, I help adults, adolescents, and couples through a variety of life transitions. I offer help to clients struggling from a variety of issues, ranging from: marital difficulties, anxiety and depression, separation and divorce, grief, parenting and workplace difficulties. In addition, I am a trained collaborative divorce coach and child specialist.
"Are you experiencing conflicts in your relationships? Are you feeling depressed, anxious or irritable?
Finding a therapist you can connect with to help you explore an unbiased view of your struggles or concerns can be difficult.
As a clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience, I help adults, adolescents, and couples through a variety of life transitions. I offer help to clients struggling from a variety of issues, ranging from: marital difficulties, anxiety and depression, separation and divorce, grief, parenting and workplace difficulties. In addition, I am a trained collaborative divorce coach and child specialist.
![Photo of Krystal Stanley - Re-New Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7547a99-e0fa-4ad8-ac6f-09e4d2a9016d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Re-New Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
At Re-New Psychological we are of the belief that you're doing the best you can with the tools that you have. We work to help you identify your strengths and your successes and identify areas of growth. Rather than highlighting pathology in your life, we help you develop new tools to overcome any roadblocks you have encountered. We bring clinical expertise to our work with you, but regard you as the expert on your life. You can expect that our work with you will be collaborative and goal-focused.
At Re-New Psychological we are of the belief that you're doing the best you can with the tools that you have. We work to help you identify your strengths and your successes and identify areas of growth. Rather than highlighting pathology in your life, we help you develop new tools to overcome any roadblocks you have encountered. We bring clinical expertise to our work with you, but regard you as the expert on your life. You can expect that our work with you will be collaborative and goal-focused.
![Photo of Molly J. McDonald, LCSW-C, LICSW, MBA, CDM, CSAT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417fefb7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Molly J. McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MBA, CDM, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20825
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
![Photo of Uzi Ben-Ami, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afeddc1b-64f7-4afe-9756-347e6f2dbe57/1/320x400.jpeg)
My focus is on developing individually tailored ways to resolve, or manage, emotional and practical issues. I treat a variety of emotional issues, such as: anxiety, depression, despair. Frequently I treat couple or marital conflicts, incompatibility, infidality. Also, trauma, loss, indecision, ambivalent feelings. These may occur in relation to other people, or because of internal emotional struggles. I am particularly interested in patients developing relevant skills, such as conflict resolution, emotional regulation, assertiveness, boundary definition, sleep management, controlling one's thoughts, and other coping skills.
My focus is on developing individually tailored ways to resolve, or manage, emotional and practical issues. I treat a variety of emotional issues, such as: anxiety, depression, despair. Frequently I treat couple or marital conflicts, incompatibility, infidality. Also, trauma, loss, indecision, ambivalent feelings. These may occur in relation to other people, or because of internal emotional struggles. I am particularly interested in patients developing relevant skills, such as conflict resolution, emotional regulation, assertiveness, boundary definition, sleep management, controlling one's thoughts, and other coping skills.
![Photo of Dr. Martha Gross, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf87c1b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
![Photo of Jennifer Evans Buerger, LCSW-C, MSASS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdb9aef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Evans Buerger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSASS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
I work extensively with healthcare professionals and other therapists. I currently have a few openings for some additional individuals 17+, couples, and families. I utilize DBT, CBT, and various other modules to assist every client. I have over 25 years of experience assisting adults just like you. Whether you're struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, anger, stress, or something else entirely, I am here for you.
I work extensively with healthcare professionals and other therapists. I currently have a few openings for some additional individuals 17+, couples, and families. I utilize DBT, CBT, and various other modules to assist every client. I have over 25 years of experience assisting adults just like you. Whether you're struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, anger, stress, or something else entirely, I am here for you.
![Photo of Carolyn Hoffmann, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69b12120-2b89-44c5-837d-36b3303ea932/2/320x400.png)
Carolyn Hoffmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who have experienced relationship trauma. I also have a passion for working with adults & couples who feel stuck or overwhelmed by daily responsibilities & life transitions. I'm a true believer in the therapeutic power of dialogue. Life can often be complex & messy, but with a supportive environment to talk things through, it can feel much easier to tackle. I strive to provide an inclusive, empathic, & non-judgmental space to manage your emotions & stressors as we work to nurture your personal relationships.
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who have experienced relationship trauma. I also have a passion for working with adults & couples who feel stuck or overwhelmed by daily responsibilities & life transitions. I'm a true believer in the therapeutic power of dialogue. Life can often be complex & messy, but with a supportive environment to talk things through, it can feel much easier to tackle. I strive to provide an inclusive, empathic, & non-judgmental space to manage your emotions & stressors as we work to nurture your personal relationships.
![Photo of Roberta Eisen, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/733228e5-0060-4dde-8ab5-a8c5e7c187f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Being a parent can be one of life’s greatest rewards. It also is one of life’s most challenging responsibilities. My goal is to assist parents and children through the transitions of divorce and beyond to achieve the best outcomes possible.
Being a parent can be one of life’s greatest rewards. It also is one of life’s most challenging responsibilities. My goal is to assist parents and children through the transitions of divorce and beyond to achieve the best outcomes possible.
![Photo of Lauren Silberman, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5000cc41-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Silberman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
My office is a place where individuals, couples, families and more can talk through all kinds of relationships with a healthy dose of warmth, encouragement, kindness and humor. I take an active approach, meaning I offer honest dialogue rather than passive listening. I pro-actively help connect the different threads of your life–because no one’s troubles exist in a vacuum. I also respect that while I have expertise in my field, you are the foremost expert on yourself. Whether or not you've been to therapy before, you are welcome.
My office is a place where individuals, couples, families and more can talk through all kinds of relationships with a healthy dose of warmth, encouragement, kindness and humor. I take an active approach, meaning I offer honest dialogue rather than passive listening. I pro-actively help connect the different threads of your life–because no one’s troubles exist in a vacuum. I also respect that while I have expertise in my field, you are the foremost expert on yourself. Whether or not you've been to therapy before, you are welcome.
![Photo of Tamia Barnes Tomasek - Tamia Barnes Tomasek Counseling LLC, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87fd4f8a-1820-4907-88c8-44dfeafea007/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tamia Barnes Tomasek Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
If you find yourself grappling with reactions to people and situations that leave you less than proud, it’s time to embark on a journey of transformation. Understanding the root causes of these reactions is a crucial step in building self-awareness. Together, we will delve into the process of change, so you can gain insight into how your past experiences have shaped your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For couples seeking to enhance their relationship dynamics, my Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) Intensives provide a unique opportunity for focused, in-depth work.
If you find yourself grappling with reactions to people and situations that leave you less than proud, it’s time to embark on a journey of transformation. Understanding the root causes of these reactions is a crucial step in building self-awareness. Together, we will delve into the process of change, so you can gain insight into how your past experiences have shaped your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For couples seeking to enhance their relationship dynamics, my Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) Intensives provide a unique opportunity for focused, in-depth work.
![Photo of Judith Asner, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3115339f-3112-48cb-8233-619ce890a99a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Judith Asner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (Online Only)
I’m proud to be a wise elder. I have academic strengths & years of working with people, but most of all, I have the wisdom that comes with age & the intuition to connect & mindshare with you. Maybe you’ve never felt understood & have a negative self-concept projected onto you by dysfunctional elders that you carried into the present. Know that you have the innate human ability to heal. You can be helped to see the roots of your old maladaptive beliefs & you can replace them with positive, realistic ones for today-a new narrative for your life.
I’m proud to be a wise elder. I have academic strengths & years of working with people, but most of all, I have the wisdom that comes with age & the intuition to connect & mindshare with you. Maybe you’ve never felt understood & have a negative self-concept projected onto you by dysfunctional elders that you carried into the present. Know that you have the innate human ability to heal. You can be helped to see the roots of your old maladaptive beliefs & you can replace them with positive, realistic ones for today-a new narrative for your life.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Leila Jarrahi, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf73e78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and have particular interest and skill working with couples and individuals struggling in their relationships.
I am a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington and Texas A&M University trained private practitioner psychologist. In addition to my 25 years of experience, I have a Master’s in Counseling and PhD in Psychology. My intention is to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotional triggers and old patterns of thinking to build insight and tools to make more fulfilling life choices. Together, we can work toward improving mood and communication, helping you build more satisfying relationships.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and have particular interest and skill working with couples and individuals struggling in their relationships.
I am a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington and Texas A&M University trained private practitioner psychologist. In addition to my 25 years of experience, I have a Master’s in Counseling and PhD in Psychology. My intention is to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotional triggers and old patterns of thinking to build insight and tools to make more fulfilling life choices. Together, we can work toward improving mood and communication, helping you build more satisfying relationships.
![Photo of Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen, MA, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3daa9bbb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Having skills and knowing what to expect, we succeed! Certifications: Imago Therapy (seen on Oprah),Relationship Enhancement (NIRE Faculty member and Director: Stepfamily Programs),advanced member Stepfamily Foundation.
Do you want more happiness and success in your life? Do you want to reduce stress and have healthier relationships? Has it been hard getting what you want out of life and having people understand what's really on your mind and in your heart? Are those you love not being loving?. When the things we want the most seem out of reach, we can feel anxious, depressed and even angry. Learn to get more of what you want from life and feel more understood, respected, loved and successful Transform your life. WE CAN HELP AND WE DO!
Having skills and knowing what to expect, we succeed! Certifications: Imago Therapy (seen on Oprah),Relationship Enhancement (NIRE Faculty member and Director: Stepfamily Programs),advanced member Stepfamily Foundation.
Do you want more happiness and success in your life? Do you want to reduce stress and have healthier relationships? Has it been hard getting what you want out of life and having people understand what's really on your mind and in your heart? Are those you love not being loving?. When the things we want the most seem out of reach, we can feel anxious, depressed and even angry. Learn to get more of what you want from life and feel more understood, respected, loved and successful Transform your life. WE CAN HELP AND WE DO!
![Photo of Gail Guttman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce4c93f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Certified Imago Relationship & Singles Therapist, Community Educator, and Consultant, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor (by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists).
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
I am a Certified Imago Relationship & Singles Therapist, Community Educator, and Consultant, as well as a Certified Sex Therapist and Certified Sex Therapy Supervisor (by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists).
We are seeing our individuals and couples in tele-therapy through the COVID-19 crisis. As a "Top Marriage, Family and Sex Therapist" in Washingtonian Magazine in 2009 & 2012, my focus is on helping couples address their emotional and sexual ruptures in their relationships. If you feel far apart from or in conflict with your partner, therapy can help you to feel close again. As an couples relationship and certified sex therapist, with over 30 years of experience, couples learn to unravel their dance and a structured communications tool, which fosters listening, understanding and empathy. Sexual and emotional intimacy are restored.
See more therapy options for Chevy Chase
Nearby Imago Therapists Searches for Chevy Chase
- Bethesda
- Bowie
- Columbia
- Gaithersburg
- Germantown
- Laurel
- North Bethesda
- North Potomac
- Potomac
- Rockville
- Silver Spring
- Takoma Park
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.