Imago Therapists in Takoma Park, MD

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 Jen Wofford, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Wofford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
I've trained in Imago, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman, Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, Imagery, Buddhist Therapy and Meditation skills.
In these challenging times, you may feel more stress, couples may have tensions. I am here to help and support you. Working in-person and online, couples and clients feel better, like themselves better, make healthier choices, develop self-compassion and compassion for others. I help people and couples work through challenges and emerge more confident, peaceful and happy. My clients grow and feel supported and challenged as they grow. My work helps you identify core patterns, treat yourself kindly, improve your most important relationships, understand and resolve old conflicts and trauma, and feel better. Please start on my Website
I've trained in Imago, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman, Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, Imagery, Buddhist Therapy and Meditation skills.
In these challenging times, you may feel more stress, couples may have tensions. I am here to help and support you. Working in-person and online, couples and clients feel better, like themselves better, make healthier choices, develop self-compassion and compassion for others. I help people and couples work through challenges and emerge more confident, peaceful and happy. My clients grow and feel supported and challenged as they grow. My work helps you identify core patterns, treat yourself kindly, improve your most important relationships, understand and resolve old conflicts and trauma, and feel better. Please start on my Website
(202) 656-1908 View (202) 656-1908
Photo of Robyn S. Zeiger, PhD, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Robyn S. Zeiger
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Other areas of special interest to me are pet loss issues, adult children of alcoholics, and couples' communication (I am a Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist).
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
Other areas of special interest to me are pet loss issues, adult children of alcoholics, and couples' communication (I am a Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist).
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
(301) 825-5154 View (301) 825-5154
Photo of Melanie Becker, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Many of us have trouble making decisions or deepening relationships, because we learned to connect with others needs above our own. While this was adaptive, it can lead to disappointment and resentment. I work with individuals and couples stuck in this cycle. Since change doesn't occur spontaneously, time is dedicated to your patterns and how they are impacting your relationships both positively & negatively.
Many of us have trouble making decisions or deepening relationships, because we learned to connect with others needs above our own. While this was adaptive, it can lead to disappointment and resentment. I work with individuals and couples stuck in this cycle. Since change doesn't occur spontaneously, time is dedicated to your patterns and how they are impacting your relationships both positively & negatively.
(301) 685-7872 View (301) 685-7872
Photo of Stephen Kosmicki, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephen Kosmicki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Whether you are dealing with immediate distress or deeper issues in relationships and work, my goal is to help you develop and nurture a process of self-reflection and awareness to encourage engagement with your whole self. My rigorous training as a Certified Psychoanalyst grounds my work, as I help you identify and engage your inner resources and strengths.
Whether you are dealing with immediate distress or deeper issues in relationships and work, my goal is to help you develop and nurture a process of self-reflection and awareness to encourage engagement with your whole self. My rigorous training as a Certified Psychoanalyst grounds my work, as I help you identify and engage your inner resources and strengths.
(917) 809-7576 View (917) 809-7576
Photo of Richard Kim Davenport, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Richard Kim Davenport
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Down to earth, caring and optimistic, interactive, offering more than just a listening ear. Personal life experience and professional training combine to help me offer real-world treatment and support for depression, ADHD (and Bipolar), relationships, parenting (and fathering), loss and grief (including suicide), and life transitions. I love this work and connecting with young and old, and many of us in the middle. Note: Appointments are made online. I'll forward login info after we've connected and decide to more forward.
Down to earth, caring and optimistic, interactive, offering more than just a listening ear. Personal life experience and professional training combine to help me offer real-world treatment and support for depression, ADHD (and Bipolar), relationships, parenting (and fathering), loss and grief (including suicide), and life transitions. I love this work and connecting with young and old, and many of us in the middle. Note: Appointments are made online. I'll forward login info after we've connected and decide to more forward.
(301) 960-3898 View (301) 960-3898
Photo of Krystal Stanley - Re-New Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Re-New Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20901  (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.
(202) 688-3813 View (202) 688-3813

More Therapists Nearby

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 Marissa Josiah, NCC, LCPC, LPC, CCT, CCISM
Marissa Josiah
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, LPC, CCT, CCISM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Marissa Josiah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience serving couples and families. She has studied researched-backed models in the couples therapy field (EFT, Relational Therapy, Gottman, Imago, etc) and has advanced experience treating trauma. Marissa specializes in helping couples who are fighting all the time, have experienced infidelity, past or on-going trauma, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other. Office locations in Columbia, MD and also offering virtual visits for MD, DC & VA. Please call for a free 10 minute consultation.
Marissa Josiah is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience serving couples and families. She has studied researched-backed models in the couples therapy field (EFT, Relational Therapy, Gottman, Imago, etc) and has advanced experience treating trauma. Marissa specializes in helping couples who are fighting all the time, have experienced infidelity, past or on-going trauma, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other. Office locations in Columbia, MD and also offering virtual visits for MD, DC & VA. Please call for a free 10 minute consultation.
(301) 638-8129 View (301) 638-8129
Photo of Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen, MA, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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!
(301) 456-0137 View (301) 456-0137
Photo of Deborah J Fox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah J Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, 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.
(202) 656-7984 View (202) 656-7984
Photo of Deborah Kleiner Ward, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Kleiner Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I'm an advanced Imago couples and singles therapist and instructor.
I believe in the innate goodness of people. Problems arise when we lack the ability to communicate what's really going on within or can't get past defenses to understand another person's feelings or experiences. Most people haven't been taught the skills to be safe listeners and so we grow up believing that others don't have capacity to understand us. I love bringing people closer by teaching them to cross the bridge into the world of others without losing themselves. I teach emotional safety by demonstrating emotional safety and believe breakdowns create opportunities for new breakthroughs.
I'm an advanced Imago couples and singles therapist and instructor.
I believe in the innate goodness of people. Problems arise when we lack the ability to communicate what's really going on within or can't get past defenses to understand another person's feelings or experiences. Most people haven't been taught the skills to be safe listeners and so we grow up believing that others don't have capacity to understand us. I love bringing people closer by teaching them to cross the bridge into the world of others without losing themselves. I teach emotional safety by demonstrating emotional safety and believe breakdowns create opportunities for new breakthroughs.
(301) 476-5906 View (301) 476-5906
Photo of Gail Guttman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Guttman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
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.
(301) 304-4781 View (301) 304-4781
Photo of Jonathan Ladd, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Ladd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815  (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 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; EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, IFS, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Play 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; EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, IFS, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Play 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 Anne Ateeka B Contee, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Anne Ateeka B Contee
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770  (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.
(240) 623-2542 View (240) 623-2542
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 Carl D Siegel, MDiv, PhD, Psychologist
Carl D Siegel
Psychologist, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20815
I've been working with stressed out, burned out, overworked, anxious and depressed Washingtonians for over 30 years and call me crazy but I still love the work. It's such a privilege to work with an amazing diversity of smart interesting people! While I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic modalities I've learned the most from my clients. About half of my caseload is working with couples primarily using the Imago relationship therapy approach. The rest of my client load is working with individual adults and relationship groups for men. Men really flourish in these relationship groups.
I've been working with stressed out, burned out, overworked, anxious and depressed Washingtonians for over 30 years and call me crazy but I still love the work. It's such a privilege to work with an amazing diversity of smart interesting people! While I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic modalities I've learned the most from my clients. About half of my caseload is working with couples primarily using the Imago relationship therapy approach. The rest of my client load is working with individual adults and relationship groups for men. Men really flourish in these relationship groups.
(202) 836-6168 View (202) 836-6168
Photo of Dr. Leila Jarrahi, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Leila Jarrahi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
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.
(301) 882-1440 View (301) 882-1440
Photo of Ellen Carol Singer, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Carol Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
Ellen Singer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has specialized in helping couples and families for 35+ years. She trained with Dr. Richard Schwartz in the evidence-based Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model. She’s also studied and incorporates tools from highly reputable Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and Imago Therapy. She sees all couples and specializes in high conflict, infidelity/affairs, intimacy/sexual relationships, ADHD impact, and coping with parent-related concerns. She also specializes in couples coping with infertiity, connected to adoption, blended families, and LGBTQ families.
Ellen Singer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has specialized in helping couples and families for 35+ years. She trained with Dr. Richard Schwartz in the evidence-based Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapeutic model. She’s also studied and incorporates tools from highly reputable Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, and Imago Therapy. She sees all couples and specializes in high conflict, infidelity/affairs, intimacy/sexual relationships, ADHD impact, and coping with parent-related concerns. She also specializes in couples coping with infertiity, connected to adoption, blended families, and LGBTQ families.
(240) 702-2188 View (240) 702-2188

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.