Imago Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR

Photo of Ronald L Attrell, LCSW, CT, CIRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ronald L Attrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CT, CIRT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Not accepting new clients
Certified Imago Relationship (Couples) Therapist; Certified in Thanatology (Grief Specialist), Certified in Primary Emotional Energy Recovery.
Let me listen to you & help you face problems, fears or pain so they do not continue to block your life. Depressed or anxious? Want deeper communication, intimacy & sexual connection with your spouse/partner? Find freedom to be your authentic self at home and work. LGBTQI affirming. Coping with trauma, grief or addictions? Safely integrate emotions/behaviors so you can meet your needs differently. Loss is pervasive in life. We encounter it thru unmet expectations, discrimination, transitions, illness, dying, death, growth, abuse & more. Find peace amidst life's changes. Discover meaning & joy. Live an AUTHENTIC LIFE!
Certified Imago Relationship (Couples) Therapist; Certified in Thanatology (Grief Specialist), Certified in Primary Emotional Energy Recovery.
Let me listen to you & help you face problems, fears or pain so they do not continue to block your life. Depressed or anxious? Want deeper communication, intimacy & sexual connection with your spouse/partner? Find freedom to be your authentic self at home and work. LGBTQI affirming. Coping with trauma, grief or addictions? Safely integrate emotions/behaviors so you can meet your needs differently. Loss is pervasive in life. We encounter it thru unmet expectations, discrimination, transitions, illness, dying, death, growth, abuse & more. Find peace amidst life's changes. Discover meaning & joy. Live an AUTHENTIC LIFE!
(971) 233-3740 View (971) 233-3740
Photo of Lesley Lacny, MA, LPC, RPsych, CPsych, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lesley Lacny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPsych, CPsych
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
We can make change in our lives by understanding why we feel the way we do and by being in tune with who we are. Once we get to know ourselves better, we have the power to grow and overcome barriers. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or anger, or if you are encountering family challenges, relationship problems, or addictions, I can help you make the change you are looking for in a safe, open and nurturing environment.
We can make change in our lives by understanding why we feel the way we do and by being in tune with who we are. Once we get to know ourselves better, we have the power to grow and overcome barriers. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or anger, or if you are encountering family challenges, relationship problems, or addictions, I can help you make the change you are looking for in a safe, open and nurturing environment.
(971) 233-4566 View (971) 233-4566
Photo of Gina L Mcwhorter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina L Mcwhorter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Gina is a skilled and compassionate provider specializing in traumatic stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, and highly sensitive persons. Through a psychodynamic, mindbody lens, she compassionately guides clients beyond defenses to connect with wholeness and peace.
Gina is a skilled and compassionate provider specializing in traumatic stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, and highly sensitive persons. Through a psychodynamic, mindbody lens, she compassionately guides clients beyond defenses to connect with wholeness and peace.
(458) 209-2309 View (458) 209-2309
Photo of Larry Conner, MA, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larry Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Over the last 36 years I have been grateful to be able to help many people with the anxieties of life. I have also helped to resolve couples' conflict, to heal guilt and shame, to manage loss, to heal relationships with living or deceased parents, and to lighten spiritual burdens. A good portion of my practice has been focused on long term recovery from addictions to alcohol, drugs, or sex. I have worked extensively with anxiety, depression, grief, ADD, OCD, trauma, and divorce, and I provide counseling for family-owned businesses. Please read more about my approach to counseling at www.larryconnercounseling.com.
Over the last 36 years I have been grateful to be able to help many people with the anxieties of life. I have also helped to resolve couples' conflict, to heal guilt and shame, to manage loss, to heal relationships with living or deceased parents, and to lighten spiritual burdens. A good portion of my practice has been focused on long term recovery from addictions to alcohol, drugs, or sex. I have worked extensively with anxiety, depression, grief, ADD, OCD, trauma, and divorce, and I provide counseling for family-owned businesses. Please read more about my approach to counseling at www.larryconnercounseling.com.
(503) 446-1184 View (503) 446-1184
Photo of Steven P DeLugach, MS, LPC, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven P DeLugach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Sexual Addictions & Trauma affects everyone in the Family. Betrayal Trauma is a natural response to secrets & lying. It must be treated as primary for the relationship to heal. Many families experience Multiple Generations of Addictions, Abuse & Neglect. Family participation is strongly encouraged but not required. Couples & Families are often in crisis from a lack of support during discovery & disclosure of Sexual Addictions. Full Disclosure is encouraged in a safe, structured process with support. Accountability is the Cornerstone of Restoring Trust & Intimacy for couples & families recovering from Sexual Addictions. Recovery from Sexual Addictions involves restoration of Healthy Sexual Balance.
Sexual Addictions & Trauma affects everyone in the Family. Betrayal Trauma is a natural response to secrets & lying. It must be treated as primary for the relationship to heal. Many families experience Multiple Generations of Addictions, Abuse & Neglect. Family participation is strongly encouraged but not required. Couples & Families are often in crisis from a lack of support during discovery & disclosure of Sexual Addictions. Full Disclosure is encouraged in a safe, structured process with support. Accountability is the Cornerstone of Restoring Trust & Intimacy for couples & families recovering from Sexual Addictions. Recovery from Sexual Addictions involves restoration of Healthy Sexual Balance.
(503) 476-9557 View (503) 476-9557
Photo of George A Howard, PsyD, Psychologist
George A Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hi there! I'm so glad you're here. You've taken the first step towards a happier and healthier life. Are you feeling stressed out, overwhelmed, or unhappy with your current situation? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, trauma, ADHD, or self-defeating behaviors? Do you want to make positive changes in your life, but you feel stuck, weighed down, or unsure? If you are looking for a caring, experienced therapist who can provide you with a safe, supportive, professional space where you can explore your challenges, strengths, and goals - you have come to the right place.
Hi there! I'm so glad you're here. You've taken the first step towards a happier and healthier life. Are you feeling stressed out, overwhelmed, or unhappy with your current situation? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, trauma, ADHD, or self-defeating behaviors? Do you want to make positive changes in your life, but you feel stuck, weighed down, or unsure? If you are looking for a caring, experienced therapist who can provide you with a safe, supportive, professional space where you can explore your challenges, strengths, and goals - you have come to the right place.
(503) 272-6239 View (503) 272-6239
Photo of Linda K Eisenberg, MA, MEd, LPC, LPA, CGP, Psychological Associate
Linda K Eisenberg
Psychological Associate, MA, MEd, LPC, LPA, CGP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Not accepting new clients
As a seasoned psychoanalyst, my job is make therapy comfortable for you to discuss your concerns. I work with you to find out what you desire from life and to help you to achieve that. Issues may be specific or there may be a general sense of un-ease. Together, we explore and understand the obstacles that inhibit knowing and attaining what is desired, or obstacles that get in the way of connection with others. PRESENTLY, I am interested in talking with those who are interested in GROUP therapy; preferably those who have had some therapy experience, and/or are presently in therapy. I'm not accepting new individual referrals.
As a seasoned psychoanalyst, my job is make therapy comfortable for you to discuss your concerns. I work with you to find out what you desire from life and to help you to achieve that. Issues may be specific or there may be a general sense of un-ease. Together, we explore and understand the obstacles that inhibit knowing and attaining what is desired, or obstacles that get in the way of connection with others. PRESENTLY, I am interested in talking with those who are interested in GROUP therapy; preferably those who have had some therapy experience, and/or are presently in therapy. I'm not accepting new individual referrals.
(503) 967-0152 View (503) 967-0152
Photo of Victoria Douglas Thoreson - Victoria Douglas Thoreson, PsyD, Psychologist
Victoria Douglas Thoreson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Waitlist for new clients
You want prompt solutions to today's challenges. Whether you are facing changes in your personal or work life, are dealing with trauma, illness, grief, depression or anxiety, you want support to identify and implement successful strategies to get back on line as soon as possible. I have an active approach and promote between-session homework and bibliotherapy to integrate the gains you are making. I aggressively seek continuing education for myself in support of your current issues and special concerns. My office reflects a sense of warmth comfort and security in order to create a reassuring environment.
You want prompt solutions to today's challenges. Whether you are facing changes in your personal or work life, are dealing with trauma, illness, grief, depression or anxiety, you want support to identify and implement successful strategies to get back on line as soon as possible. I have an active approach and promote between-session homework and bibliotherapy to integrate the gains you are making. I aggressively seek continuing education for myself in support of your current issues and special concerns. My office reflects a sense of warmth comfort and security in order to create a reassuring environment.
(971) 236-5142 View (971) 236-5142
Photo of Jessica Klein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Current In-Person Availability. I am an interactive therapist who will work to find unique tools and solutions for you. I specialize in couples therapy and adult individual therapy. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an approach that helps couples increase closeness and heal through understanding each together, increasing empathy and interrupting destructive cycles. I also specialize in trauma and use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), somatic psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness tools to help clients stabilize their systems, process trauma and heal.
Current In-Person Availability. I am an interactive therapist who will work to find unique tools and solutions for you. I specialize in couples therapy and adult individual therapy. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an approach that helps couples increase closeness and heal through understanding each together, increasing empathy and interrupting destructive cycles. I also specialize in trauma and use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), somatic psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness tools to help clients stabilize their systems, process trauma and heal.
(971) 545-4944 View (971) 545-4944
Photo of Holly S. Garrett, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly S. Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Welcome. If you are reading this I am guessing something isn't working in your life. You may be depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, scared, or shut down. You may not know how to communicate your needs to your partner, or deal with your own complicated emotions. Perhaps you are going through a divorce or other life transition. Life is full of twists and turns, many are unexpected and can throw a person off balance. It's ok. This is normal. The truth is that you don't have to do it alone. There is hope! You can find the way back to finding balance in life, work, and love.
Welcome. If you are reading this I am guessing something isn't working in your life. You may be depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, scared, or shut down. You may not know how to communicate your needs to your partner, or deal with your own complicated emotions. Perhaps you are going through a divorce or other life transition. Life is full of twists and turns, many are unexpected and can throw a person off balance. It's ok. This is normal. The truth is that you don't have to do it alone. There is hope! You can find the way back to finding balance in life, work, and love.
(503) 451-6414 View (503) 451-6414
Photo of Louis Poeltl - Neupathway (Louis Poeltl), LPC, LMHC, SUDP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neupathway (Louis Poeltl)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Louis Poeltl Ed.S, NCC, C-DBT, LMHC, LPC is a clinical mental health counselor with over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic services to diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. With a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling and an Education Specialist Degree in Family Counseling, Louis is especially suited to incorporate clients’ familial and cultural backgrounds to uncover negative internalized beliefs that are holding back clients from living their best lives now.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Louis Poeltl Ed.S, NCC, C-DBT, LMHC, LPC is a clinical mental health counselor with over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic services to diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. With a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling and an Education Specialist Degree in Family Counseling, Louis is especially suited to incorporate clients’ familial and cultural backgrounds to uncover negative internalized beliefs that are holding back clients from living their best lives now.
(971) 414-3508 View (971) 414-3508

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carol L. Clifton, Psychologist
Carol L. Clifton
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
The more psychodynamically oriented Imago therapy of Getting the Love You Want by Harville Hendrix, M.
I have found that no single therapy works for everyone during my 20 years of treating trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias as well as doing marital therapy. While trained in traditional therapy, I have integrated mind-body therapies where appropriate since research indicates symptoms are stored in the body as well as in the mind. EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Tappas Accupressure Technique, Advanced Integrative Therapy, Thought Field Therapy, the Emotional Freedom Technique, and Healing from the Body Level Up are a few modalities I use along with cognitive restructuring and psycho-education. I work with each client to determine goals and treatment plans.
The more psychodynamically oriented Imago therapy of Getting the Love You Want by Harville Hendrix, M.
I have found that no single therapy works for everyone during my 20 years of treating trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias as well as doing marital therapy. While trained in traditional therapy, I have integrated mind-body therapies where appropriate since research indicates symptoms are stored in the body as well as in the mind. EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Tappas Accupressure Technique, Advanced Integrative Therapy, Thought Field Therapy, the Emotional Freedom Technique, and Healing from the Body Level Up are a few modalities I use along with cognitive restructuring and psycho-education. I work with each client to determine goals and treatment plans.
(971) 236-4051 View (971) 236-4051
Photo of Tracy Noelle Lindstrom - Tracy Lindstrom, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Lindstrom, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Some of the modalities in which I am trained are: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy); DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy); Imago; Gottman Method; Psychodynamic; Family Systems; BST (Brief Strategic Therapy); and Emotion Focused.
Do you feel stuck? Stuck in an unhealthy relationship? Stuck in the same emotional state - anxious, fearful, depressed, numb? As Sheryl Sandberg says, "We cannot change what we are not aware of, and once we are aware, we cannot help but change." I work with clients to explore their mental health needs and develop healthier coping skills, thought processes and lifestyles. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities in my practice to address the unique needs of each individual.
Some of the modalities in which I am trained are: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy); DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy); Imago; Gottman Method; Psychodynamic; Family Systems; BST (Brief Strategic Therapy); and Emotion Focused.
Do you feel stuck? Stuck in an unhealthy relationship? Stuck in the same emotional state - anxious, fearful, depressed, numb? As Sheryl Sandberg says, "We cannot change what we are not aware of, and once we are aware, we cannot help but change." I work with clients to explore their mental health needs and develop healthier coping skills, thought processes and lifestyles. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities in my practice to address the unique needs of each individual.
(971) 701-2207 View (971) 701-2207
Photo of Katya Stark - Stark Counseling , MS, NCC
Stark Counseling
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
I also apply Imago, a couples therapy method that is centered on improving listening and dialogue-based communication.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples whose challenges with interpersonal relationships are due to anxiety, depression, and/or past traumatic events. My clients with the best outcomes are willing to engage in deep dialogues, complete "homework" between sessions, and are comfortable with a "hands-on approach” in therapy. I am a good fit for people struggling with social anxiety, depression, religious trauma, life transitions, procrastination, or relationship issues. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA + community and can help people questioning gender identity and heteronormativity.
I also apply Imago, a couples therapy method that is centered on improving listening and dialogue-based communication.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples whose challenges with interpersonal relationships are due to anxiety, depression, and/or past traumatic events. My clients with the best outcomes are willing to engage in deep dialogues, complete "homework" between sessions, and are comfortable with a "hands-on approach” in therapy. I am a good fit for people struggling with social anxiety, depression, religious trauma, life transitions, procrastination, or relationship issues. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA + community and can help people questioning gender identity and heteronormativity.
(503) 461-8894 View (503) 461-8894
Photo of Margaret M. Kelleher, PsyD, Psychologist
Margaret M. Kelleher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My professional belief is that beginning psychotherapy is like embarking on a "Hero's Journey". Clients brave facing their fears in a safe, secure environment in order to create the lives they want to live. Many times, I meet clients who think that therapy is about fixing what is "wrong" with them. I believe, however, that therapy is really more about fostering clients' ability to connect with what is "right" with them. I support people in fully embracing who and what they really are - without fears. It would be my privilege to be your guide on this journey.
My professional belief is that beginning psychotherapy is like embarking on a "Hero's Journey". Clients brave facing their fears in a safe, secure environment in order to create the lives they want to live. Many times, I meet clients who think that therapy is about fixing what is "wrong" with them. I believe, however, that therapy is really more about fostering clients' ability to connect with what is "right" with them. I support people in fully embracing who and what they really are - without fears. It would be my privilege to be your guide on this journey.
(503) 444-9808 View (503) 444-9808
Photo of Alex Franjola, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Franjola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed? Numb? Lacking real connection to self or others? Does life currently feel like you are just existing, reacting, coping or surviving? Is your mental, emotional, physical and interpersonal wellness feeling compromised? Do you strive to feel more balanced, integrated and resilient? I can be an ally to you in integrating these feelings and experiences in a productive environment that supports you in feeling safe, assured and respected. I would like to help you feel resilient and capable of attaining your therapeutic goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed? Numb? Lacking real connection to self or others? Does life currently feel like you are just existing, reacting, coping or surviving? Is your mental, emotional, physical and interpersonal wellness feeling compromised? Do you strive to feel more balanced, integrated and resilient? I can be an ally to you in integrating these feelings and experiences in a productive environment that supports you in feeling safe, assured and respected. I would like to help you feel resilient and capable of attaining your therapeutic goals.
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Photo of Richard Seigler, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard Seigler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
***Currently available for in-person and Teletherapy appointments*** I am passionate about people leading empowered, connected, and purposeful lives. I provide counseling services to diverse clients as they learn, change, grow, and function in increasingly inspired, creative, healthy, and adaptive ways. I work collaboratively with clients in identifying needs, making changes, and practicing new skills in a safe and supportive setting. I am experienced in working with adults, couples, families, as well as adolescent clients, on issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, identity, and unwanted thoughts or emotions.
***Currently available for in-person and Teletherapy appointments*** I am passionate about people leading empowered, connected, and purposeful lives. I provide counseling services to diverse clients as they learn, change, grow, and function in increasingly inspired, creative, healthy, and adaptive ways. I work collaboratively with clients in identifying needs, making changes, and practicing new skills in a safe and supportive setting. I am experienced in working with adults, couples, families, as well as adolescent clients, on issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, identity, and unwanted thoughts or emotions.
(503) 483-8565 View (503) 483-8565
Photo of Andrea Lynne Woodward, MFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Andrea Lynne Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Informed by two decades as an innovation consultant, business and life coach, Andrea specializes in helping individuals address anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, weight loss, health challenges, family and relationship conflict. As a culturally sensitive Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, she aligns with challenges faced by LGBTQ+, polyamorous and Latinx communities. Bilingual in Spanish, Andrea enjoys working with Spanish-speaking clients. With over 12 years’ experience as a sex coach, Andrea helps women, men and couples to resolve obstacles to communication and intimacy.
Informed by two decades as an innovation consultant, business and life coach, Andrea specializes in helping individuals address anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, weight loss, health challenges, family and relationship conflict. As a culturally sensitive Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, she aligns with challenges faced by LGBTQ+, polyamorous and Latinx communities. Bilingual in Spanish, Andrea enjoys working with Spanish-speaking clients. With over 12 years’ experience as a sex coach, Andrea helps women, men and couples to resolve obstacles to communication and intimacy.
(458) 217-1997 View (458) 217-1997
Photo of Brent Cichoski, MA, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brent Cichoski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140  (Online Only)
I am a solution focused therapist who provides treatment for a variety of emotional-social difficulties, including mood disorders, couples counseling, parenting, work conflict and addictions. I have a tremendous amount of respect for clients and their courage to share vulnerable aspects of their lives. I work with men, women, college students, couples, and families to help develop healthy coping skills. I appreciate and respect my clients in their journey to understand themselves and find greater peace in their lives.
I am a solution focused therapist who provides treatment for a variety of emotional-social difficulties, including mood disorders, couples counseling, parenting, work conflict and addictions. I have a tremendous amount of respect for clients and their courage to share vulnerable aspects of their lives. I work with men, women, college students, couples, and families to help develop healthy coping skills. I appreciate and respect my clients in their journey to understand themselves and find greater peace in their lives.
(503) 747-8171 View (503) 747-8171
Photo of Kavitha Goldowitz, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kavitha Goldowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years experience working with individuals and couples. My area of expertise includes working with ethnic and multicultural population and addressing issues related to couples in inter-racial marriages, struggles with cultural assimilation and family relationship dynamics. I speak 5 languages and I am keenly aware of the specific issues faced by Indian-Americans in particular and Asian Americans and Latinos in general, especially with regards to struggles with personal and cultural identity. I offer brief and long term models of therapy. I also provide tele-therapy (online) in addition to face-to-face counseling.
I have over 10 years experience working with individuals and couples. My area of expertise includes working with ethnic and multicultural population and addressing issues related to couples in inter-racial marriages, struggles with cultural assimilation and family relationship dynamics. I speak 5 languages and I am keenly aware of the specific issues faced by Indian-Americans in particular and Asian Americans and Latinos in general, especially with regards to struggles with personal and cultural identity. I offer brief and long term models of therapy. I also provide tele-therapy (online) in addition to face-to-face counseling.
(707) 549-6681 View (707) 549-6681

Nearby Imago Therapists Searches for Lake Oswego

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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.