Imago Therapists in Austin, TX
Brendan Harvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I've trained in Imago Relationship Therapy, and holistic modalities including yoga, acupuncture, and meditation.
Anxiety, depression, and relationship strain are all signs of change trying to happen. Often fear holds us back from challenging ourselves and our relationships. What we need is security, loving acceptance, and healthy curiosity. You may fear that you are stuck, that your partner will never change to meet your needs, or perhaps you are predestined to being unhappy or alone. I help people create relationships where they are comfortable enough to grow. It's through authentic relationships that we find the strength to dream big. Together we can find deep and meaningful connection and insight, find joy in our tears, trust, and grow.
I've trained in Imago Relationship Therapy, and holistic modalities including yoga, acupuncture, and meditation.
Anxiety, depression, and relationship strain are all signs of change trying to happen. Often fear holds us back from challenging ourselves and our relationships. What we need is security, loving acceptance, and healthy curiosity. You may fear that you are stuck, that your partner will never change to meet your needs, or perhaps you are predestined to being unhappy or alone. I help people create relationships where they are comfortable enough to grow. It's through authentic relationships that we find the strength to dream big. Together we can find deep and meaningful connection and insight, find joy in our tears, trust, and grow.
Paul Boone, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759 (Online Only)
I am an advanced clinician in Imago Therapy. When relationships aren't working very well or are on the brink of ending, it really feels bad; like the rug is being pulled out from under you. Often there are solvable reasons for why these things happen. I am motivated by those methods such as Imago therapy and EFT which have worked so well for so many in the past to help couples develop a high degree of safe attachment in their relationships. Something, that once they have learned how to do it, they can take with them because it is portable.
I am an advanced clinician in Imago Therapy. When relationships aren't working very well or are on the brink of ending, it really feels bad; like the rug is being pulled out from under you. Often there are solvable reasons for why these things happen. I am motivated by those methods such as Imago therapy and EFT which have worked so well for so many in the past to help couples develop a high degree of safe attachment in their relationships. Something, that once they have learned how to do it, they can take with them because it is portable.
I believe we all have the capacity to achieve loving, fulfilling relationships, but sometimes we get in our own way. Whether you are stuck in old patterns, afraid to try something new, uncomfortable in your own skin, or simply frustrated with the cards you've been dealt, please allow me to assist you on your journey to your full potential, and most rewarding relationships. I specialize in Relationship Issues, am a Certified Imago Relationship Specialist and EMDR Certified Therapist, and can help gently guide clients through their traumatic pasts.
I believe we all have the capacity to achieve loving, fulfilling relationships, but sometimes we get in our own way. Whether you are stuck in old patterns, afraid to try something new, uncomfortable in your own skin, or simply frustrated with the cards you've been dealt, please allow me to assist you on your journey to your full potential, and most rewarding relationships. I specialize in Relationship Issues, am a Certified Imago Relationship Specialist and EMDR Certified Therapist, and can help gently guide clients through their traumatic pasts.
Caileigh Chadwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78756
I incorporate a variety of lens including EMDR, IFS, AEDP, attachment theory, somatic practices, ACT, Imago, and DBT for a personalized fit for you.
Do you feel trapped in patterns that no longer serve you? Do you feel disconnected from yourself, others, or in your relationship? Are there old wounds showing up in the present? Are you struggling with relationships and not quite sure why? When we encounter trauma or adverse experiences, we often find ourselves stuck in unhealthy cycles as a way of shielding ourselves from reliving that pain. Together, we will approach the difficulties you're facing with compassion, fostering lasting transformation. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, creating a space where we can explore how you can cultivate a more fulfilling life.
I incorporate a variety of lens including EMDR, IFS, AEDP, attachment theory, somatic practices, ACT, Imago, and DBT for a personalized fit for you.
Do you feel trapped in patterns that no longer serve you? Do you feel disconnected from yourself, others, or in your relationship? Are there old wounds showing up in the present? Are you struggling with relationships and not quite sure why? When we encounter trauma or adverse experiences, we often find ourselves stuck in unhealthy cycles as a way of shielding ourselves from reliving that pain. Together, we will approach the difficulties you're facing with compassion, fostering lasting transformation. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, creating a space where we can explore how you can cultivate a more fulfilling life.
I am trained in IMAGO and RLT therapy - I value training in methods that are known to help couples make changes in their relationship.
My work is relationally focused and I often utilize EMDR to help individuals resolve trauma that is being triggered in their relationships and change negative beliefs that are impacting their daily lives. I often work with individuals that are hoping to change behavior that is impacting their relationships and couples that are hoping to shift out of dynamics that are not working for them. I help individuals meet the goals that are most important to them, and I work to help improve the relationship of couples. I believe our partners can guide us to be our best selves, and show us what is unresolved for us from our history.
I am trained in IMAGO and RLT therapy - I value training in methods that are known to help couples make changes in their relationship.
My work is relationally focused and I often utilize EMDR to help individuals resolve trauma that is being triggered in their relationships and change negative beliefs that are impacting their daily lives. I often work with individuals that are hoping to change behavior that is impacting their relationships and couples that are hoping to shift out of dynamics that are not working for them. I help individuals meet the goals that are most important to them, and I work to help improve the relationship of couples. I believe our partners can guide us to be our best selves, and show us what is unresolved for us from our history.
Masterson Coaching & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, Imago
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78752 (Online Only)
As an LCSW-S, CliftonStrengths & Co-Active coach, educator, and certified Imago Relationship Therapist with advanced degrees in poetry and social work, I enjoy engaging with people who are interested in healing, re-connection, growth, and a greater sense of well-being.
So glad you’re here… I am a teacher, Co-Active coach, therapist, and LCSW-S based in Austin, TX, available to do psychotherapy and coaching for teens and adults via Zoom as well as supervise Texas social work students working toward their LCSW. I believe that people are inherently creative, resourceful, and whole, and I am driven to facilitate powerful conversations to enrich the lives of my students, clients, colleagues, and supervisees. I value vulnerability, play, humor, inquiry, engagement, and authenticity, and am interested in the stories we tell that invariably shape and define our lives.
As an LCSW-S, CliftonStrengths & Co-Active coach, educator, and certified Imago Relationship Therapist with advanced degrees in poetry and social work, I enjoy engaging with people who are interested in healing, re-connection, growth, and a greater sense of well-being.
So glad you’re here… I am a teacher, Co-Active coach, therapist, and LCSW-S based in Austin, TX, available to do psychotherapy and coaching for teens and adults via Zoom as well as supervise Texas social work students working toward their LCSW. I believe that people are inherently creative, resourceful, and whole, and I am driven to facilitate powerful conversations to enrich the lives of my students, clients, colleagues, and supervisees. I value vulnerability, play, humor, inquiry, engagement, and authenticity, and am interested in the stories we tell that invariably shape and define our lives.
Charlie Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704 (Online Only)
I have helped couples for 30 years to transform their relationship using Imago Relationship Therapy. I teach couples a communication skill set that foster emotional maturity and respect. This changes relationships. Being in relationship can be challenging during the second stage of relationship when the newness recedes and irritations begins. The Imago model increases consciousness and healing around the origins of conflict. This awareness empowers couples in their ability to change so they are no longer victims to dysfunctional patterns. I incorporate a psycho-spiritual approach in my Imago work as well as individual counseling.
I have helped couples for 30 years to transform their relationship using Imago Relationship Therapy. I teach couples a communication skill set that foster emotional maturity and respect. This changes relationships. Being in relationship can be challenging during the second stage of relationship when the newness recedes and irritations begins. The Imago model increases consciousness and healing around the origins of conflict. This awareness empowers couples in their ability to change so they are no longer victims to dysfunctional patterns. I incorporate a psycho-spiritual approach in my Imago work as well as individual counseling.
Charlotte Morrow Mcclure
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
You may be wanting to understand how life choices contribute to your feelings day to day. Imago Relationship Therapy and Gottman Relationship Therapy can often offer new possibilities for your relationship. Ego State understanding of varied responses you may have to the same issue may be improved. Brene Brown's life view information is useful, too.Trauma and other difficult experiences can be improved with EMDR and Trauma Resource Model. Learning various relaxation techniques such as EFT and Heartmath can be helpful. And, new info on the neurobiology of the brain can expand your self understanding.
You may be wanting to understand how life choices contribute to your feelings day to day. Imago Relationship Therapy and Gottman Relationship Therapy can often offer new possibilities for your relationship. Ego State understanding of varied responses you may have to the same issue may be improved. Brene Brown's life view information is useful, too.Trauma and other difficult experiences can be improved with EMDR and Trauma Resource Model. Learning various relaxation techniques such as EFT and Heartmath can be helpful. And, new info on the neurobiology of the brain can expand your self understanding.
I am experienced at helping to transform depression, anxiety, relationship problems, addictions, and other struggles through a variety of active techniques: Psychodynamic therapy with a Jungian orientation, expressive arts therapy, imago therapy for couples, action methods for groups, and mindfulness processes. With leaders and organizations, I use a dynamic set of processes that help to transform conflict and develop emotional intelligence and authenticity. I also am a licensed LPC supervisor and train facilitators to use these techniques with their clients.
I am experienced at helping to transform depression, anxiety, relationship problems, addictions, and other struggles through a variety of active techniques: Psychodynamic therapy with a Jungian orientation, expressive arts therapy, imago therapy for couples, action methods for groups, and mindfulness processes. With leaders and organizations, I use a dynamic set of processes that help to transform conflict and develop emotional intelligence and authenticity. I also am a licensed LPC supervisor and train facilitators to use these techniques with their clients.
Over 30 years of experience in counseling couples and individuals, I use my skills and training in Imago therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Ericksonian Hypnosis, and Self-Relations Therapy to help you navigate changes in your life and relationships.
A quote by Milton Erickson that inspires us to view therapy as a way to manage change: "People come for therapy not to change their past but their future." - and there are so many changes these days! Managing change with creativity and insight creates new opportunities and revitalizes relationships. When experiencing change do you struggle with lack of motivation, depressive moods, self-defeating self talk, or poor self-confidence? Counseling helps you gain insight into your underlying feelings and motivations, envision new possibilities for yourself or your relationship, and clarify conflicting emotions.
Over 30 years of experience in counseling couples and individuals, I use my skills and training in Imago therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Ericksonian Hypnosis, and Self-Relations Therapy to help you navigate changes in your life and relationships.
A quote by Milton Erickson that inspires us to view therapy as a way to manage change: "People come for therapy not to change their past but their future." - and there are so many changes these days! Managing change with creativity and insight creates new opportunities and revitalizes relationships. When experiencing change do you struggle with lack of motivation, depressive moods, self-defeating self talk, or poor self-confidence? Counseling helps you gain insight into your underlying feelings and motivations, envision new possibilities for yourself or your relationship, and clarify conflicting emotions.
My specialty training is in Imago therapy and it has been by far the most helpful training for couples and family work.
Ready to harness your curious, intuitive, and playful energies and use them to transform the anxiety, anger, and resentments that have built up in your relationship(s)? Hi, I'm Steve, and I've been working on this with couples, families, individuals, and groups for nearly a decade. I really love working with people from all walks of life who are interested in learning about their own humanity. I'd love to chat and learn about what's bringing you in to see if we would be a good fit. Feel free to use this form or visit my website to set up a free 15-minute consultation.
My specialty training is in Imago therapy and it has been by far the most helpful training for couples and family work.
Ready to harness your curious, intuitive, and playful energies and use them to transform the anxiety, anger, and resentments that have built up in your relationship(s)? Hi, I'm Steve, and I've been working on this with couples, families, individuals, and groups for nearly a decade. I really love working with people from all walks of life who are interested in learning about their own humanity. I'd love to chat and learn about what's bringing you in to see if we would be a good fit. Feel free to use this form or visit my website to set up a free 15-minute consultation.
15 Second Videos
Bob Beare
Malia Scott, RE-Wilding Relationships PLLC
Carol Lennox
Debbie Cherry Lmft - Couples Therapy
Tiffany Stanley
Kristin Atkinson
Geeti Shirazi Mahajan
Laura L. Ryan
Chloe Faith Rogers
Victoria Dorsey Drewy Professional Counseling Svcs
Distinguished Sex Therapist Rhiannon Beauregard
Coral Gutierrez
The Phoenix Rising Centers
Katey Villalon
Private Couple Retreat Program
Private Couple Retreat Program
Maria Luisa Salinas
Scotty Gilmore
Carson J. Smith
Tom Bolls
Audrey Alberthal
Eans Counseling
Today we have 6 generations of people looking for Love and Emotional Connection. I love working with couples. With 12 years experience at Psychiatric hospitals and 20 yrs in private practice, I am excited to teach couples creative skills and resources to change and grow healthy relationships. We take inventory of relationship needs, learn and practice effective communication skills to manage stress with intimacy, family, career and parenting. I Teach the Tools to forgive resentments and negotiate effectively. I use Research based tx modalities, Gottman, Genogram, Imago Tx, Mindfulness, Meditation, CBT and DBT. Spanish Speaking.
Today we have 6 generations of people looking for Love and Emotional Connection. I love working with couples. With 12 years experience at Psychiatric hospitals and 20 yrs in private practice, I am excited to teach couples creative skills and resources to change and grow healthy relationships. We take inventory of relationship needs, learn and practice effective communication skills to manage stress with intimacy, family, career and parenting. I Teach the Tools to forgive resentments and negotiate effectively. I use Research based tx modalities, Gottman, Genogram, Imago Tx, Mindfulness, Meditation, CBT and DBT. Spanish Speaking.
Emily D. Harrington-Cheney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, IRT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
Waitlist for new clients
I base my approach to couples in the Imago Relationship Therapy framework, which recognizes that a lot of how we operate as romantic partners can be explained by looking at our earliest relationships.
Our early years have a big impact on how we operate as adults. Our ways of being and personal struggles can often be traced back to our family of origin. How you were parented, the role you played in your family, the defenses you learned to get by or survive – these stay with you and inform how you operate in the world and in your relationships. Whatever your own history may have been, there's a place for what you learned and how you adapted; after all, it’s gotten you this far. But some of those early lessons have outlasted their usefulness and no longer serve you, leading to anxiety, depression, or chronic disconnection.
I base my approach to couples in the Imago Relationship Therapy framework, which recognizes that a lot of how we operate as romantic partners can be explained by looking at our earliest relationships.
Our early years have a big impact on how we operate as adults. Our ways of being and personal struggles can often be traced back to our family of origin. How you were parented, the role you played in your family, the defenses you learned to get by or survive – these stay with you and inform how you operate in the world and in your relationships. Whatever your own history may have been, there's a place for what you learned and how you adapted; after all, it’s gotten you this far. But some of those early lessons have outlasted their usefulness and no longer serve you, leading to anxiety, depression, or chronic disconnection.
Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
Imago Relationship Therapy * Meridian Tapping * iRest Yoga Nidra® and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
Imago Relationship Therapy * Meridian Tapping * iRest Yoga Nidra® and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
Christine Poane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in Imago Couples Therapy and have extensive training in EMDR, ERP, with trauma/IFS informed care and utilize mindfulness in sessions with knowledge of the Enneagram and Human Design.
I am licensed for virtual therapy in NY, NJ, TX, and FL. Do you keep repeating the same dating and relationship patterns? If so, I can help. Clients have described sessions with me as accepting, warm, genuine, honest, and humorous. I am the type of therapist who will engage actively, provide honest feedback, and you will not have to sensor yourself with me. I want to help you discover your true voice and learn to trust your intuitive inner wisdom to create the life and relationships you desire. Email me and I can explain how we can get started!
I specialize in Imago Couples Therapy and have extensive training in EMDR, ERP, with trauma/IFS informed care and utilize mindfulness in sessions with knowledge of the Enneagram and Human Design.
I am licensed for virtual therapy in NY, NJ, TX, and FL. Do you keep repeating the same dating and relationship patterns? If so, I can help. Clients have described sessions with me as accepting, warm, genuine, honest, and humorous. I am the type of therapist who will engage actively, provide honest feedback, and you will not have to sensor yourself with me. I want to help you discover your true voice and learn to trust your intuitive inner wisdom to create the life and relationships you desire. Email me and I can explain how we can get started!
Adrienn Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78739 (Online Only)
I'm Adrienne Parker, and I've worked in mental health for over 9 years, providing individual, group, and family therapy. I have worked with various individuals giving treatment for Depression, Anxiety, Youth Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorder, Childhood PTSD, Trauma, Self Esteem, ODD, Stress Reduction, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Parents of Children with Special Needs. I use client-centered techniques, including TF-CBT, Imago Relationship Therapy, CBT, Psychotherapy, Brief Therapy, and ERP. I believe you are the expert on you, and I respect what your concept of "happy" looks like.
I'm Adrienne Parker, and I've worked in mental health for over 9 years, providing individual, group, and family therapy. I have worked with various individuals giving treatment for Depression, Anxiety, Youth Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorder, Childhood PTSD, Trauma, Self Esteem, ODD, Stress Reduction, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Parents of Children with Special Needs. I use client-centered techniques, including TF-CBT, Imago Relationship Therapy, CBT, Psychotherapy, Brief Therapy, and ERP. I believe you are the expert on you, and I respect what your concept of "happy" looks like.
Back On The Road Again LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703 (Online Only)
I utilize Motivational Interviewing, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Coaching, Brainspotting (similar to EMDR), and Imago Relationship Therapy to help clients reach their goals.
I believe in beginning therapy with a client by starting where they are at and partnering with them to set goals that are right for them. I am passionate about helping couples reconnect using Imago Relationship Therapy. I also have a passion for persons struggling with addiction or abusive relationships. For direct scheduling use this link: https://headway.co/providers/cherry-weaver
I utilize Motivational Interviewing, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Coaching, Brainspotting (similar to EMDR), and Imago Relationship Therapy to help clients reach their goals.
I believe in beginning therapy with a client by starting where they are at and partnering with them to set goals that are right for them. I am passionate about helping couples reconnect using Imago Relationship Therapy. I also have a passion for persons struggling with addiction or abusive relationships. For direct scheduling use this link: https://headway.co/providers/cherry-weaver
Malia Scott, RE-Wilding Relationships PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I am advanced trained in Couples/Sex Therapy, attachment theory, neurobiology, RLT, Imago, IFS, ADHD, Prepare/Enrich pre-marital counseling & assessment, discernment therapy, infidelity/affair recovery, narcissistic abuse education & recovery and Out of Control Sexual Behavior.
You want to work on better communication, sex & intimacy in your marriage/relationship(s). You’re feeling "stuck". This is the last straw before giving up on your relationship. You're on the brink of divorce. You’re wanting to heal your childhood wounds. You're having an affair, or have experienced infidelity. You've experienced narcissistic abuse. You’re contemplating marriage (pre-marital counseling). You want to work on your relationship with yourself, with your partner/spouse, w/ a family member or colleague. Or, you're struggling with out of control sexual behavior ("sex addiction).
I am advanced trained in Couples/Sex Therapy, attachment theory, neurobiology, RLT, Imago, IFS, ADHD, Prepare/Enrich pre-marital counseling & assessment, discernment therapy, infidelity/affair recovery, narcissistic abuse education & recovery and Out of Control Sexual Behavior.
You want to work on better communication, sex & intimacy in your marriage/relationship(s). You’re feeling "stuck". This is the last straw before giving up on your relationship. You're on the brink of divorce. You’re wanting to heal your childhood wounds. You're having an affair, or have experienced infidelity. You've experienced narcissistic abuse. You’re contemplating marriage (pre-marital counseling). You want to work on your relationship with yourself, with your partner/spouse, w/ a family member or colleague. Or, you're struggling with out of control sexual behavior ("sex addiction).
Hanna Del Toro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78729 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
To schedule an appointment please visit hannadeltoro.com. I work with primarily teens, adults, and older adults in the retirement years. I treat many conditions including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, youth dealing with school or peer challenges, families dealing with divorce, substance use issues and many other concerns.
To schedule an appointment please visit hannadeltoro.com. I work with primarily teens, adults, and older adults in the retirement years. I treat many conditions including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, youth dealing with school or peer challenges, families dealing with divorce, substance use issues and many other concerns.
Amberlea Patrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78757
Discovering the Wisdom Within: Cultivating consciousness and tuning into presence-- I integrate spirituality into psychotherapy. These two pathways to healing are intimately connected, both offering important and necessary tools for deep healing and awakening. Psychotherapy employs tested processes to understand personality traits, events that create disturbance in our lives, and patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Spirituality offers us the ability to encourage loving kindness with all that we are. It teaches us to nurture and develop the inner observer, present moment awareness, non-judgment, and heart-centered thinking. Cultivating intimacy with all that we are--light and dark, high and low, superficial and deep.
Discovering the Wisdom Within: Cultivating consciousness and tuning into presence-- I integrate spirituality into psychotherapy. These two pathways to healing are intimately connected, both offering important and necessary tools for deep healing and awakening. Psychotherapy employs tested processes to understand personality traits, events that create disturbance in our lives, and patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Spirituality offers us the ability to encourage loving kindness with all that we are. It teaches us to nurture and develop the inner observer, present moment awareness, non-judgment, and heart-centered thinking. Cultivating intimacy with all that we are--light and dark, high and low, superficial and deep.
See more therapy options for Austin
Nearby Imago Therapists Searches for Austin
- Cedar Park
- Dripping Springs
- Georgetown
- Kyle
- New Braunfels
- Pflugerville
- Round Rock
- San Marcos
- West Lake Hills
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.