Imago Therapists in Monroe, NC

Photo of Carolyn J Henderson, MA, LCMHC, QS, NCC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn J Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS, NCC, BCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monroe, NC 28110
I am an interactive, cognitive behavioral client-centered therapist who focuses on the development of healthy relationships that have been impacted by trauma, grief and loss, infidelity, life transitions, depression, domestic and substance abuse. My empathetic and compassionate approach provides support and practical feedback while building on client's strengths using an empowerment model and the development of deeper self-discovery and awareness. The goal is to identify effective coping strategies to manage what clients are currently experiencing. I endeavor to walk alongside of clients in the midst of their pain and their joy.
I am an interactive, cognitive behavioral client-centered therapist who focuses on the development of healthy relationships that have been impacted by trauma, grief and loss, infidelity, life transitions, depression, domestic and substance abuse. My empathetic and compassionate approach provides support and practical feedback while building on client's strengths using an empowerment model and the development of deeper self-discovery and awareness. The goal is to identify effective coping strategies to manage what clients are currently experiencing. I endeavor to walk alongside of clients in the midst of their pain and their joy.
(704) 946-5674 View (704) 946-5674

Online Therapists

Photo of Karen DuBose, MSN, RN, CS
Karen DuBose
MSN, RN, CS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I am a Certified Imago couples therapist for 25 years (Based on the book "Getting the Love You Want" by Harville Hendrix).
We are meant to be whole and well, with the ability to recover and heal. I help women and men with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I listen, then share information and tools that will help with their specific needs. My clients suffering with anxiety will be taught skills to become more grounded and self assured. My clients experiencing depression are given hope and tools. Couples in crisis or wanting a better relationship can thrive instead of just survive in the model I use. As a RN, I am specifically trained in how the body responds to stress, trauma, and change.
I am a Certified Imago couples therapist for 25 years (Based on the book "Getting the Love You Want" by Harville Hendrix).
We are meant to be whole and well, with the ability to recover and heal. I help women and men with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I listen, then share information and tools that will help with their specific needs. My clients suffering with anxiety will be taught skills to become more grounded and self assured. My clients experiencing depression are given hope and tools. Couples in crisis or wanting a better relationship can thrive instead of just survive in the model I use. As a RN, I am specifically trained in how the body responds to stress, trauma, and change.
(704) 870-4896 View (704) 870-4896
Photo of Kristin Franks, MS, LCMHC, CLC, Counselor
Kristin Franks
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CLC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
I'm skilled in attachment styles, Imago Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, PREPARE/ENRICH, & EMDR, which I implement with a balanced, dynamic, Christian approach.
Are you searching for relationship satisfaction? Has dating been difficult for you? Do you feel unable to experience a mutually loving bond with someone who wants the same things as you do? As an attachment therapist, I love helping people achieve relational fulfillment. Intimacy is challenging, yet rewarding, when you have healthy and secure attachments with others. Whether you're single, dating, or newly married, I'd love to work with you! I can help you understand your attachment style, and how that plays a key role in the formation and development of a healthy, fulfilling relationship with the person you love.
I'm skilled in attachment styles, Imago Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, PREPARE/ENRICH, & EMDR, which I implement with a balanced, dynamic, Christian approach.
Are you searching for relationship satisfaction? Has dating been difficult for you? Do you feel unable to experience a mutually loving bond with someone who wants the same things as you do? As an attachment therapist, I love helping people achieve relational fulfillment. Intimacy is challenging, yet rewarding, when you have healthy and secure attachments with others. Whether you're single, dating, or newly married, I'd love to work with you! I can help you understand your attachment style, and how that plays a key role in the formation and development of a healthy, fulfilling relationship with the person you love.
(336) 443-9464 View (336) 443-9464
Photo of Brenda Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28677
I have specialized training in Imago Relationship Counseling.
Hi. I am Brenda Martin. I am a licensed clinical social work/therapist with thirty years experience. I offer services to children and families, teens, couples, and adults. I understand that contacting a mental health provider can be a frightening situation. I explain to you over the phone what to expect, and work to put you at ease from the first moment we talk. I enjoy assisting people in finding their strengths and utilizing them to overcome the current problems. My office is located in the downtown Statesville, NC area with easy access. I look forward to talking with you.
I have specialized training in Imago Relationship Counseling.
Hi. I am Brenda Martin. I am a licensed clinical social work/therapist with thirty years experience. I offer services to children and families, teens, couples, and adults. I understand that contacting a mental health provider can be a frightening situation. I explain to you over the phone what to expect, and work to put you at ease from the first moment we talk. I enjoy assisting people in finding their strengths and utilizing them to overcome the current problems. My office is located in the downtown Statesville, NC area with easy access. I look forward to talking with you.
(704) 764-1531 View (704) 764-1531
Photo of Peter Basone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Basone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
With couples, I have found Imago therapy effective to stop blame, criticism, and reduce conflict.
With over 33 years of clinical psychotherapeutic experience, I am a highly-skilled and compassionate licensed clinical psychotherapist who works with adults experiencing a variety of mood disorders and mental health challenges. My focus is dedicated to providing exceptional care and effective psychotherapeutic treatment to assist my client(s) with addressing their troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Fortunately, I have the ability to establish rapport quickly, build trust, and relate to a diverse client population, regarding race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
With couples, I have found Imago therapy effective to stop blame, criticism, and reduce conflict.
With over 33 years of clinical psychotherapeutic experience, I am a highly-skilled and compassionate licensed clinical psychotherapist who works with adults experiencing a variety of mood disorders and mental health challenges. My focus is dedicated to providing exceptional care and effective psychotherapeutic treatment to assist my client(s) with addressing their troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Fortunately, I have the ability to establish rapport quickly, build trust, and relate to a diverse client population, regarding race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
(704) 681-4028 View (704) 681-4028
Photo of Elizabeth C Hutcheson, LCSW, ACSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth C Hutcheson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I work with couples using Imago Relationship Therapy.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
I work with couples using Imago Relationship Therapy.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
(704) 216-4064 View (704) 216-4064
Photo of Vanessa Davidson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of life can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you're a child, adolescent, or adult, facing depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, or other life stressors, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey toward emotional well-being through a space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely, without judgment.
Navigating the complexities of life can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you're a child, adolescent, or adult, facing depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, or other life stressors, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey toward emotional well-being through a space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely, without judgment.
(757) 859-9531 View (757) 859-9531
Photo of Patricia Butler, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina for over 25 years. I take seriously the trust that clients place in me when choosing to work with me in psychotherapy and as a result I create a safe, non-judgmental space where life's challenges can be examined and explored and where a sense of health and well being can be found or reestablished. My specialties include relationship/couples counseling, trauma resolution, and the integration of spirituality and psychotherapy using the spiritual framework of my clients.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina for over 25 years. I take seriously the trust that clients place in me when choosing to work with me in psychotherapy and as a result I create a safe, non-judgmental space where life's challenges can be examined and explored and where a sense of health and well being can be found or reestablished. My specialties include relationship/couples counseling, trauma resolution, and the integration of spirituality and psychotherapy using the spiritual framework of my clients.
(704) 897-6006 View (704) 897-6006
Photo of Réa M. Wright, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Réa M. Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Want to live a Joyful, Vibrant, & Conscious life? Understanding that you are important, relevant & that you matter, is step one. Your relationship with your SELF affects every aspect of your life & often small changes can lead to big shifts! If you want to feel differently, want satisfying relationships, & to cope with life's stressors in an empowered & positive way, then please do reach out to me. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space in which you can explore feelings, thoughts & beliefs, both conscious & unconscious, that may be keeping you stuck. You don't have to keep struggling alone. I'm just an email away!
Want to live a Joyful, Vibrant, & Conscious life? Understanding that you are important, relevant & that you matter, is step one. Your relationship with your SELF affects every aspect of your life & often small changes can lead to big shifts! If you want to feel differently, want satisfying relationships, & to cope with life's stressors in an empowered & positive way, then please do reach out to me. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space in which you can explore feelings, thoughts & beliefs, both conscious & unconscious, that may be keeping you stuck. You don't have to keep struggling alone. I'm just an email away!
(704) 216-4296 View (704) 216-4296
Photo of Gene R Edwards, PhD, Psychologist
Gene R Edwards
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
I am a therapist specializing in individual, couples and group therapy, with an emphasis on a multicultural approach to counseling, and well-being. I am the owner/licensed psychologist of Balanced Mindset Counseling and Psychological Services, PLLC, in Charlotte, NC. I am an experienced Mental Health Administrator and Licensed Psychologist with a demonstrated history of working in both the higher education industry and private clinical practice. I have worked in the areas of college student mental health, clinical administration, cultural competency, diversity and inclusion, performance and motivation, and social justice.
I am a therapist specializing in individual, couples and group therapy, with an emphasis on a multicultural approach to counseling, and well-being. I am the owner/licensed psychologist of Balanced Mindset Counseling and Psychological Services, PLLC, in Charlotte, NC. I am an experienced Mental Health Administrator and Licensed Psychologist with a demonstrated history of working in both the higher education industry and private clinical practice. I have worked in the areas of college student mental health, clinical administration, cultural competency, diversity and inclusion, performance and motivation, and social justice.
(980) 404-2171 View (980) 404-2171
Photo of Lori Brinkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Brinkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Randleman, NC 27317
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
(980) 372-7110 View (980) 372-7110
Photo of Territa Chambers - Ms Accountability Transformation Group, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Ms Accountability Transformation Group
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
Feeling like your stuck in a rut? You’re struggling to hear your true self and desire to break free from negative relational patterns. You want to heal from past traumas and look for your purpose in this world. Or maybe, you’ve been trying to make sense of your life for a long time. Emotions can invoke feelings of stress, anxiety, self-criticism, and self-doubt. You may be frustrated with yourself, or living incongruent with your authentic self. It’s time to make a change, but you’re not sure how. Or maybe, you’ve made changes, but you still feel unsure and it’s causing emotional turmoil in you spirit, mind and body.
Feeling like your stuck in a rut? You’re struggling to hear your true self and desire to break free from negative relational patterns. You want to heal from past traumas and look for your purpose in this world. Or maybe, you’ve been trying to make sense of your life for a long time. Emotions can invoke feelings of stress, anxiety, self-criticism, and self-doubt. You may be frustrated with yourself, or living incongruent with your authentic self. It’s time to make a change, but you’re not sure how. Or maybe, you’ve made changes, but you still feel unsure and it’s causing emotional turmoil in you spirit, mind and body.
(980) 276-2764 View (980) 276-2764
Photo of Dori C Luke, MSW, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dori C Luke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pineville, NC 28134
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I strive to offer compassionate and attuned care while always hoping to make others feel safe and seen. I’m a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill with 25+years experience as a licensed psychotherapist and have trained in multiple modalities (see below). I work with adults, teenagers, and couples who are looking to feel more connected with themselves & others and who may want support in overcoming any trauma, stuckness, or get a better understanding of their reactions to certain situations. I offer a non-judgmental perspective in discussing all topics. Please ask about my sliding fee, & I would be delighted to talk with you further.
Hi, I strive to offer compassionate and attuned care while always hoping to make others feel safe and seen. I’m a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill with 25+years experience as a licensed psychotherapist and have trained in multiple modalities (see below). I work with adults, teenagers, and couples who are looking to feel more connected with themselves & others and who may want support in overcoming any trauma, stuckness, or get a better understanding of their reactions to certain situations. I offer a non-judgmental perspective in discussing all topics. Please ask about my sliding fee, & I would be delighted to talk with you further.
(980) 575-1067 View (980) 575-1067
Photo of Nancy Conrad Ball - Nancy Conrad Ball Counseling & Consulting PLLC, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Nancy Conrad Ball Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
Selecting a therapist is an important decision. Creating a therapeutic rapport with a perfect stranger and discussing very personal issues can be intimidating. I'd like to help make this process more comfortable. I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for 28 years. My integrative approach helps you utilize your skills and strengths to identify and solve current problems. It also affords you the opportunity to resolve long standing issues by learning new skills, tapping into your own inner resources and recognizing the body, mind and spirit connection.
Selecting a therapist is an important decision. Creating a therapeutic rapport with a perfect stranger and discussing very personal issues can be intimidating. I'd like to help make this process more comfortable. I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for 28 years. My integrative approach helps you utilize your skills and strengths to identify and solve current problems. It also affords you the opportunity to resolve long standing issues by learning new skills, tapping into your own inner resources and recognizing the body, mind and spirit connection.
(336) 268-8029 View (336) 268-8029
Photo of Amy Jane Williams - Amy Williams Wellness, MA, LCMHC, LPC, RYT-200, EAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Williams Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LPC, RYT-200, EAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
Introverts, highly sensitive, empathic individuals - creatives, therapists, teachers, social activists and healers... If you want to heal family of origin or painful childhood memories OR you seek better communication/coping skills > Let's start! Sessions include supportive space, skillful questions, and a CBT approach - with mindfulness, creativity, and nature-based practices. Each session begins with a short breath practice (optional). I have committed to my own learning/healing and helping others for 25 years. Sessions also include solution-focused steps & homework. I would love to support you in creating a life you love!
Introverts, highly sensitive, empathic individuals - creatives, therapists, teachers, social activists and healers... If you want to heal family of origin or painful childhood memories OR you seek better communication/coping skills > Let's start! Sessions include supportive space, skillful questions, and a CBT approach - with mindfulness, creativity, and nature-based practices. Each session begins with a short breath practice (optional). I have committed to my own learning/healing and helping others for 25 years. Sessions also include solution-focused steps & homework. I would love to support you in creating a life you love!
(704) 350-2929 View (704) 350-2929
Photo of Lynda R Green, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynda R Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27455  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 40 years, I have worked with clients spanning across every major stage of the lifecycle. I began my career as a family therapist treating mainly children and adolescents. Now, I work mostly with college students, adults and seniors, helping them to cope with the challenges of everyday life. Together, I will help you explore the difficulties you have experienced in your past, so that you can better understand how to use the insights gleaned from those experiences to lead a more fulfilling life in the present.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 40 years, I have worked with clients spanning across every major stage of the lifecycle. I began my career as a family therapist treating mainly children and adolescents. Now, I work mostly with college students, adults and seniors, helping them to cope with the challenges of everyday life. Together, I will help you explore the difficulties you have experienced in your past, so that you can better understand how to use the insights gleaned from those experiences to lead a more fulfilling life in the present.
(336) 361-1311 View (336) 361-1311
Photo of Chantia Carter - Art of Peace Wellness, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Art of Peace Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Misson: Group counseling and individual therapy for healers, helpers, & heroes... Are you feeling unmotivated or depressed on your job? Do you work or live with challenging people who cause you to often feel burnt-out, stressed-out or tired? Helping you decrease overall stress levels and ward off exhaustion, compassion fatigue, and secondary traumatic stress is the goal. Being a helper comes with a cost. I want to partner with you toward the objective of innovative "soul-utions", promoting healing for your mind, body, and soul. Let me help you master your peace. August is National Wellness Month, this is the perfect time to begin!
Misson: Group counseling and individual therapy for healers, helpers, & heroes... Are you feeling unmotivated or depressed on your job? Do you work or live with challenging people who cause you to often feel burnt-out, stressed-out or tired? Helping you decrease overall stress levels and ward off exhaustion, compassion fatigue, and secondary traumatic stress is the goal. Being a helper comes with a cost. I want to partner with you toward the objective of innovative "soul-utions", promoting healing for your mind, body, and soul. Let me help you master your peace. August is National Wellness Month, this is the perfect time to begin!
(980) 278-3073 View (980) 278-3073
Photo of Frances Jacobs Smith - Frances Jacobs Smith, MEd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances Jacobs Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I earned my masters in counseling from the University of New Orleans in 1987. I earned my masters in social work from the University of South Carolina in 1994. I have worked for over 12 years as a clinical therapist/professional counselor. My clinical and counseling experiences have been in a variety of settings to include private practice, mental health agencies, foster care, department of social services and community outreach. I have had the opportunity to work with children 11+, teens and adults. I believe that therapy has the ability to promote hope, growth and change.
I earned my masters in counseling from the University of New Orleans in 1987. I earned my masters in social work from the University of South Carolina in 1994. I have worked for over 12 years as a clinical therapist/professional counselor. My clinical and counseling experiences have been in a variety of settings to include private practice, mental health agencies, foster care, department of social services and community outreach. I have had the opportunity to work with children 11+, teens and adults. I believe that therapy has the ability to promote hope, growth and change.
(704) 326-4088 View (704) 326-4088
Photo of Chelsie Ciminelli, LMSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsie Ciminelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
It’s okay to ask for what you need. This is something I need to remind myself of on a daily basis. So many of us focus intently on making sure everyone else is taken care of and we completely abandon ourselves and ignore our own needs. This leaves us feeling exhausted, depleted, and quite frankly, resentful because we think to ourselves “why isn’t anyone taking care of me?” I teach my clients what a healthy relationship looks like because if this wasn’t modeled to you at some point throughout your life, no one can expect you to know what it means.
It’s okay to ask for what you need. This is something I need to remind myself of on a daily basis. So many of us focus intently on making sure everyone else is taken care of and we completely abandon ourselves and ignore our own needs. This leaves us feeling exhausted, depleted, and quite frankly, resentful because we think to ourselves “why isn’t anyone taking care of me?” I teach my clients what a healthy relationship looks like because if this wasn’t modeled to you at some point throughout your life, no one can expect you to know what it means.
(980) 243-4918 View (980) 243-4918
Photo of Brelonda R Walker - Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070  (Online Only)
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
(704) 896-6044 x1 View (704) 896-6044 x1
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.