Imago Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Allison Middleton, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Middleton
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
In couples therapy, I use Imago techniques and am open to all types of couples, including homosexual, heterosexual, and more.
Texting available at 215-436-8115. You deserve the best version of you! There is hope. Are you looking for a safe space to explore yourself? Do you wish to learn how to affirm, support, and love yourself for being you? I can help you discover the self-care that is best for you and how to be the best in your relationships, using tools like the Enneagram. I am trauma informed and am happy to help change what is negatively impacting you in your life. I am also passionate about seeing couples and helping relationships develop true intimacy and healthy communication skills. This therapeutic relationship can change your life.
In couples therapy, I use Imago techniques and am open to all types of couples, including homosexual, heterosexual, and more.
Texting available at 215-436-8115. You deserve the best version of you! There is hope. Are you looking for a safe space to explore yourself? Do you wish to learn how to affirm, support, and love yourself for being you? I can help you discover the self-care that is best for you and how to be the best in your relationships, using tools like the Enneagram. I am trauma informed and am happy to help change what is negatively impacting you in your life. I am also passionate about seeing couples and helping relationships develop true intimacy and healthy communication skills. This therapeutic relationship can change your life.
(215) 910-4073 View (215) 910-4073
Photo of Joanne Fleisher, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Fleisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I also specialize in Imago couples therapy, an approach that recognizes the power of relationships to heal childhood wounds.
Whether you are coming to therapy for the first time or have therapy experience, I welcome you to my practice. I tailor the therapy experience to meet your needs, drawing from a variety of treatment approaches. Together, we focus on building your strengths and recognizing your inherent wisdom as pathways for healing and growth. My practice is informed by mindfulness meditation, which I have studied as a practitioner and instructor. I encourage clients who are interested in this approach to develop mindfulness techniques that will help them to overcome anxiety, depression and other life challenges.
I also specialize in Imago couples therapy, an approach that recognizes the power of relationships to heal childhood wounds.
Whether you are coming to therapy for the first time or have therapy experience, I welcome you to my practice. I tailor the therapy experience to meet your needs, drawing from a variety of treatment approaches. Together, we focus on building your strengths and recognizing your inherent wisdom as pathways for healing and growth. My practice is informed by mindfulness meditation, which I have studied as a practitioner and instructor. I encourage clients who are interested in this approach to develop mindfulness techniques that will help them to overcome anxiety, depression and other life challenges.
(215) 515-0412 View (215) 515-0412
Photo of Ian Sill - Aporia Group LLC: Deborah Blastic and Ian Sill, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aporia Group LLC: Deborah Blastic and Ian Sill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
We specialize in addressing substance abuse and practice Imago Relationship Therapy for couples. Our aim is to assist the individual and their loved ones into a recovery program that works. We are dedicated to this process and understand how confusing it is. Imago Relationship Therapy came to us as an outgrowth of our recognition that people in recovery need help with relationships and families need support. Our interest in Imago expanded our philosophical approach to therapy and and provided us a skill set useful for any couple seeking to improve their relationship. To learn more about Imago please see: imagorelationshipswork.com
We specialize in addressing substance abuse and practice Imago Relationship Therapy for couples. Our aim is to assist the individual and their loved ones into a recovery program that works. We are dedicated to this process and understand how confusing it is. Imago Relationship Therapy came to us as an outgrowth of our recognition that people in recovery need help with relationships and families need support. Our interest in Imago expanded our philosophical approach to therapy and and provided us a skill set useful for any couple seeking to improve their relationship. To learn more about Imago please see: imagorelationshipswork.com
(215) 631-8270 View (215) 631-8270
Photo of Augie Hermann, PhD, Psychologist
Augie Hermann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I specialize in guiding clients through life transitions, reducing their trauma and stress using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and building safe and satisfying relationships using the Imago Relationship model.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? Struggling with your relationships? We humans are wired for connection. When life's experiences damage those connections, we end up depressed, anxious, angry & unhappy, often turning to unhealthy lifestyles including alcohol, food, drugs & overspending. We suffer & our relationships suffer. Therapy allows time for exploring these disconnections & learning new skills for connecting to ourselves, others & the world, so we can live the life we want. I can help you clarify & work productively with these issues, develop your strengths, & experience a greater overall sense of well-being.
I specialize in guiding clients through life transitions, reducing their trauma and stress using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and building safe and satisfying relationships using the Imago Relationship model.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? Struggling with your relationships? We humans are wired for connection. When life's experiences damage those connections, we end up depressed, anxious, angry & unhappy, often turning to unhealthy lifestyles including alcohol, food, drugs & overspending. We suffer & our relationships suffer. Therapy allows time for exploring these disconnections & learning new skills for connecting to ourselves, others & the world, so we can live the life we want. I can help you clarify & work productively with these issues, develop your strengths, & experience a greater overall sense of well-being.
(215) 352-4798 View (215) 352-4798
Photo of Sandra A. Shachar - Dr. Sandra Shachar, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sandra Shachar, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Clinician for Partners of Sex Addicts.
Relationships are my expertise, especially issues of broken trust, poor communication, intimacy and addiction. There is no "perfect partner", but intimate partnerships should be a source of joy, safety and support. Whether you are dating or engaged, married or contemplating divorce, "straight" or LGBTQIA, monogamous or poly, kinky or vanilla, Millenial or retired, you CAN feel understood by one another with deep, joyful connection! With over 40 years of experience, my clinical toolbox is full of skills and concepts that will move you forward together. (Telehealth only. Sorry, no insurance accepted but receipts provided OON.)
I am a certified Imago Relationship Therapist and Certified Clinician for Partners of Sex Addicts.
Relationships are my expertise, especially issues of broken trust, poor communication, intimacy and addiction. There is no "perfect partner", but intimate partnerships should be a source of joy, safety and support. Whether you are dating or engaged, married or contemplating divorce, "straight" or LGBTQIA, monogamous or poly, kinky or vanilla, Millenial or retired, you CAN feel understood by one another with deep, joyful connection! With over 40 years of experience, my clinical toolbox is full of skills and concepts that will move you forward together. (Telehealth only. Sorry, no insurance accepted but receipts provided OON.)
(215) 650-8779 View (215) 650-8779
Photo of Caroline S Robboy - The Center for Growth/Sex Therapy in Philadelphia, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Center for Growth/Sex Therapy in Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Additionally, she is a certified Imago Therapist, and board certified Sexologist and Sex Therapist.
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
Additionally, she is a certified Imago Therapist, and board certified Sexologist and Sex Therapist.
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
(267) 888-4162 View (267) 888-4162
Photo of Pamela Kelberg - Pam Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist , MSSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
I am a certified sex therapist with AASECT, and my training includes systemic couples therapies, Imago Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, anxiety disorders, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner or spouse? Do you want to improve communication and avoid arguments? Is your sexual relationship tense? I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years experience specializing in relationship counseling and sex therapy. I help couples learn how to best listen and communicate needs clearly so that you and your partner can feel close again. I have been told that I am keenly in tune with my clients. I understand that seeking therapy, although not always an easy decision is a wonderful opportunity to restore your relationship with your partner/spouse or family member.
I am a certified sex therapist with AASECT, and my training includes systemic couples therapies, Imago Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, anxiety disorders, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner or spouse? Do you want to improve communication and avoid arguments? Is your sexual relationship tense? I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years experience specializing in relationship counseling and sex therapy. I help couples learn how to best listen and communicate needs clearly so that you and your partner can feel close again. I have been told that I am keenly in tune with my clients. I understand that seeking therapy, although not always an easy decision is a wonderful opportunity to restore your relationship with your partner/spouse or family member.
(267) 544-9992 View (267) 544-9992
Photo of Robert Castle, MS, LCPC, NCC, ACS
Robert Castle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19131  (Online Only)
I am trained in IMAGO techniques to help couples learn healing dialogues for connected-ness, empathy, and problem resolution.
Meaningful personal growth and self-efficacy can be realized by any person, couple or family in the face of personal challenges. These can be internal (despair, depression, grief, anger, or anxiety), external (lack of supportive relationships, disharmony), and interactive (blaming, perceptions and reciprocal reactions to each other's behaviors). How well you manage to cope, survive and eventually thrive in the midst of these challenges can be aided by establishing a genuine collaboration with a competent therapist. Teletherapy makes it even easier to select and engage with a licensed counselor who fits your particular needs.
I am trained in IMAGO techniques to help couples learn healing dialogues for connected-ness, empathy, and problem resolution.
Meaningful personal growth and self-efficacy can be realized by any person, couple or family in the face of personal challenges. These can be internal (despair, depression, grief, anger, or anxiety), external (lack of supportive relationships, disharmony), and interactive (blaming, perceptions and reciprocal reactions to each other's behaviors). How well you manage to cope, survive and eventually thrive in the midst of these challenges can be aided by establishing a genuine collaboration with a competent therapist. Teletherapy makes it even easier to select and engage with a licensed counselor who fits your particular needs.
(410) 702-5138 View (410) 702-5138
Photo of Carolyn Piro, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Piro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I offer Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Imago, Sand Tray therapy, Polyvagal Theory in Therapy (my favorite), Trauma Narrative, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
Hey there - you've taken that first step and are poking around Psychology Today. Or maybe you've been here before and are curious about therapy. That's great. I work with people and couples who understand that therapy is a process and that there are no quick fixes. Most of the people who walk through my doors know that life could be better, but don't quite know how to make that happen. They are ready for change. I work with couples and individuals who believe they have limited options in therapy. You are welcome here. Most of my clients want to address trauma, anxiety, stress, affair recovery, poor communication, and depression.
I offer Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Imago, Sand Tray therapy, Polyvagal Theory in Therapy (my favorite), Trauma Narrative, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
Hey there - you've taken that first step and are poking around Psychology Today. Or maybe you've been here before and are curious about therapy. That's great. I work with people and couples who understand that therapy is a process and that there are no quick fixes. Most of the people who walk through my doors know that life could be better, but don't quite know how to make that happen. They are ready for change. I work with couples and individuals who believe they have limited options in therapy. You are welcome here. Most of my clients want to address trauma, anxiety, stress, affair recovery, poor communication, and depression.
(609) 622-4246 View (609) 622-4246
Photo of Michael W Senko, LCSW-C, CIRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael W Senko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CIRT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including but not limited to Imago Relationship Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurobiology, Attachment Theory, and the principles of compassion and kindness as they apply to our understanding of our world through scientific theory.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need a hand to help us through dark moments. Asking for help is a strength, and you deserve respect for your bravery in getting this far in your search. It is an honor to work with my clients to help them accomplish their life and relationship goals. We do our best work when we feel comfortable, therefore my practice is based on compassion and acceptance. Sometimes emotions and situations are overwhelming. However, it doesn't have to be that way. Allow me to help empower you to gain control over your life. Learn new ways to cope with your world and your relationships.
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including but not limited to Imago Relationship Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurobiology, Attachment Theory, and the principles of compassion and kindness as they apply to our understanding of our world through scientific theory.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need a hand to help us through dark moments. Asking for help is a strength, and you deserve respect for your bravery in getting this far in your search. It is an honor to work with my clients to help them accomplish their life and relationship goals. We do our best work when we feel comfortable, therefore my practice is based on compassion and acceptance. Sometimes emotions and situations are overwhelming. However, it doesn't have to be that way. Allow me to help empower you to gain control over your life. Learn new ways to cope with your world and your relationships.
(443) 879-9959 View (443) 879-9959
Photo of Rod White, PhD, MFT, MDiv
Rod White
PhD, MFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I enjoy the diversity of my clients, walking with adults of all ages and backgrounds. In 2011 I turned into the joys of psychotherapy as a second career. I see my main job as listening carefully, mirroring your process with empathy and helping you move toward the goals you set, whether they are about reaching deeper inside or moving into the practical steps you need to take next week. My experience and spirituality are assets you can rely on, but they will not direct your own process of understanding, healing and maturation.
I enjoy the diversity of my clients, walking with adults of all ages and backgrounds. In 2011 I turned into the joys of psychotherapy as a second career. I see my main job as listening carefully, mirroring your process with empathy and helping you move toward the goals you set, whether they are about reaching deeper inside or moving into the practical steps you need to take next week. My experience and spirituality are assets you can rely on, but they will not direct your own process of understanding, healing and maturation.
(215) 621-8762 View (215) 621-8762
Photo of Jordon Campbell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordon Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19132  (Online Only)
My passion is to work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds that are having a difficult time communicating their feelings and needs. I work closely with my clients to help them discover their innate coping skills while introducing a variety of others.Those that struggle in their relationships; whether it be with work, friends or a loved one, will gain support in creating and setting appropriate boundaries. I provide a space to work through trauma (sexual, racial, familial and work). I also provide clinical supervision for therapists seeking to expand and grow their mental health career
My passion is to work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds that are having a difficult time communicating their feelings and needs. I work closely with my clients to help them discover their innate coping skills while introducing a variety of others.Those that struggle in their relationships; whether it be with work, friends or a loved one, will gain support in creating and setting appropriate boundaries. I provide a space to work through trauma (sexual, racial, familial and work). I also provide clinical supervision for therapists seeking to expand and grow their mental health career
(215) 486-8220 View (215) 486-8220
Photo of Laz Baum, LSW, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laz Baum
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I work mostly with queer/trans individuals & couples who want to deepen their relationships with themselves & each other. I enjoy accompanying folks in healing the internalized societal, generational & trauma-based patterns that have helped us survive, but limit our access to authenticity & intimacy. In relationship therapy, I help clients slow down interactions in order to get curious about their defenses, listen to their bodies, identify their needs, and learn what helps them access safety & build trust. I am fat positive, kink-friendly, ace-friendly & poly-friendly. I enjoy working with disabled & chronically ill folks.
I work mostly with queer/trans individuals & couples who want to deepen their relationships with themselves & each other. I enjoy accompanying folks in healing the internalized societal, generational & trauma-based patterns that have helped us survive, but limit our access to authenticity & intimacy. In relationship therapy, I help clients slow down interactions in order to get curious about their defenses, listen to their bodies, identify their needs, and learn what helps them access safety & build trust. I am fat positive, kink-friendly, ace-friendly & poly-friendly. I enjoy working with disabled & chronically ill folks.
(267) 551-5152 View (267) 551-5152
Photo of Sheila Boynton - Soul Transformation LLC, LSW, MDiv, CTCP, CAMS-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Soul Transformation LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MDiv, CTCP, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
There are many reasons you may be seeking therapy — marital and familial conflict, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or relationships are among the most common reasons. Perhaps you have asked yourself questions such as “how long will this pain last?” “when will I be good enough?” “how can I learn to love myself” “Why me?’ "How do I get out?" I want you to know you are not alone! Together we can explore your needs. You want to be happy, let's explore the barriers keeping you from living the best version of you. You need tools to navigate life, let's create a road map.
There are many reasons you may be seeking therapy — marital and familial conflict, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or relationships are among the most common reasons. Perhaps you have asked yourself questions such as “how long will this pain last?” “when will I be good enough?” “how can I learn to love myself” “Why me?’ "How do I get out?" I want you to know you are not alone! Together we can explore your needs. You want to be happy, let's explore the barriers keeping you from living the best version of you. You need tools to navigate life, let's create a road map.
(215) 770-3917 View (215) 770-3917
Photo of Ashley King, MSEd, EdM, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, EdM, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
(215) 995-0219 View (215) 995-0219
Photo of Sherri Edelman, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherri Edelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I offer a compassionate, educational approach; a partnership with my clients, who want to be their very best self. Counseling, therapy, or coaching with Triune Wellness Founder Dr. Sherri Edelman: will lead to internal and external shifts, in relationship to yourself and others; resulting in greater satisfaction and abundance in all areas of your life. Obstacles are identified and removed, and strategies and tools are developed; that are easy to understand and apply. With a dynamic, collaborative, and results-driven orientation; our work together will facilitate the release of old patterns and habits, for a brand new focus on life!
I offer a compassionate, educational approach; a partnership with my clients, who want to be their very best self. Counseling, therapy, or coaching with Triune Wellness Founder Dr. Sherri Edelman: will lead to internal and external shifts, in relationship to yourself and others; resulting in greater satisfaction and abundance in all areas of your life. Obstacles are identified and removed, and strategies and tools are developed; that are easy to understand and apply. With a dynamic, collaborative, and results-driven orientation; our work together will facilitate the release of old patterns and habits, for a brand new focus on life!
(267) 592-6854 View (267) 592-6854
Photo of Pamela Goffman Snyder, LCSW, TEP, CIRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Goffman Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TEP, CIRT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
TESTIMONIAL. Prior to meeting Pamela Goffman I was desperately seeking a psychotherapist who could help me with my deep depression and feelings of emptiness and loneliness. For a period of five years I counseled with four different therapists to seek peace in my life. My life was a mess during my five year search, I had hit rock bottom. It had to be divine intervention that lead me to Pamela Goffman. While the four previous therapists talked me through my immediate issue(s), Pamela quickly identified the core of my pain and we began our journey of healing together.
TESTIMONIAL. Prior to meeting Pamela Goffman I was desperately seeking a psychotherapist who could help me with my deep depression and feelings of emptiness and loneliness. For a period of five years I counseled with four different therapists to seek peace in my life. My life was a mess during my five year search, I had hit rock bottom. It had to be divine intervention that lead me to Pamela Goffman. While the four previous therapists talked me through my immediate issue(s), Pamela quickly identified the core of my pain and we began our journey of healing together.
(215) 607-8433 View (215) 607-8433
Photo of Adalina East, MRes, MSc
Adalina East
MRes, MSc
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I am a therapist working in New York, Pennsylvania and New Mexico. EMDR, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing are my guides to gently lead people towards healing themselves, something I believe we are all capable of. Together, we will set goals for recovery from trauma and major life stressors, incorporating neuroscience-backed strategies and spirituality where you are comfortable.
I am a therapist working in New York, Pennsylvania and New Mexico. EMDR, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing are my guides to gently lead people towards healing themselves, something I believe we are all capable of. Together, we will set goals for recovery from trauma and major life stressors, incorporating neuroscience-backed strategies and spirituality where you are comfortable.
(505) 657-4637 View (505) 657-4637
Photo of Selina Stanford - Sankofa Healing Studio- Selina Stanford, MEd, RYT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sankofa Healing Studio- Selina Stanford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Selina is a graduate of Temple University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise and Movement and Master’s in Counseling Psychology at Temple. She is a huge proponent of all things wellness. Selina has a deeply rooted love for her community and the mental health of Black people.
Selina is a graduate of Temple University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise and Movement and Master’s in Counseling Psychology at Temple. She is a huge proponent of all things wellness. Selina has a deeply rooted love for her community and the mental health of Black people.
(267) 459-4284 x2 View (267) 459-4284 x2
Photo of Akilah J. Pierre, LMFT, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Akilah J. Pierre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
You love your partner dearly, but your relationship is not how you want it to be. You smile and suppress your feelings, or you're constantly vocalizing your dissatisfaction, but it doesn't change the current state of your relationship. You know deep down this is not sustainable for you. The lack of intimacy in your relationship stresses you out. You're constantly thinking of ways to improve your relationship, but your efforts seem to go unnoticed. You worry your partner's lack of effort and appreciation will confirm the fear you've been avoiding, "I don't feel seen by my partner, and I'm scared they don't care about me."
You love your partner dearly, but your relationship is not how you want it to be. You smile and suppress your feelings, or you're constantly vocalizing your dissatisfaction, but it doesn't change the current state of your relationship. You know deep down this is not sustainable for you. The lack of intimacy in your relationship stresses you out. You're constantly thinking of ways to improve your relationship, but your efforts seem to go unnoticed. You worry your partner's lack of effort and appreciation will confirm the fear you've been avoiding, "I don't feel seen by my partner, and I'm scared they don't care about me."
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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.