Imago Therapists in Dripping Springs, TX

Photo of Lara Long, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lara Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Is stress, anxiety and depression plaguing you? Do you feel more disconnected than ever in this post-pandemic world? Have you ever been curious about what therapy with horses might be like? I'd love to offer you the experience of something different, through a felt experience of change either through in-person talk therapy or equine assisted psychotherapy (I also offer Telehealth!). Therapy can be a place to feel safe, seen and find pathways to new ways of being in the world. I hope to meet you soon!
Is stress, anxiety and depression plaguing you? Do you feel more disconnected than ever in this post-pandemic world? Have you ever been curious about what therapy with horses might be like? I'd love to offer you the experience of something different, through a felt experience of change either through in-person talk therapy or equine assisted psychotherapy (I also offer Telehealth!). Therapy can be a place to feel safe, seen and find pathways to new ways of being in the world. I hope to meet you soon!
(512) 729-8213 View (512) 729-8213
Photo of Virginia C Renfroe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia C Renfroe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Welcome! Therapy is an important form of self-care. Anxiety, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, and relationship conflicts are often issues that lead people to seek a counselor. Or sometimes a person has experienced an upsetting or even life-threatening event. For twenty years I have assisted individuals, couples, and families in working through these and other concerns. While many may encounter similar difficulties, each person is unique, and your strengths, intuition, and creativity are key in your movement toward well-being.
Welcome! Therapy is an important form of self-care. Anxiety, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, and relationship conflicts are often issues that lead people to seek a counselor. Or sometimes a person has experienced an upsetting or even life-threatening event. For twenty years I have assisted individuals, couples, and families in working through these and other concerns. While many may encounter similar difficulties, each person is unique, and your strengths, intuition, and creativity are key in your movement toward well-being.
(844) 782-9119 View (844) 782-9119
Photo of Katy Adams, LMFT-S, LPC, SEP, CCTP, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT-S, LPC, SEP, CCTP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
I offer somatic psychotherapy (touch and tablework) for people who are working on trauma, relationship and attachment issues. This work may also bring up family of origin issues that may also be unresolved. I combine somatic, IFS, and attachment modalities. My somatic training also provides expertise in helping those with chronic illness or pain and how this is related to mental health. Somatic work also is for those with after-effects of surgeries or accidents.
I offer somatic psychotherapy (touch and tablework) for people who are working on trauma, relationship and attachment issues. This work may also bring up family of origin issues that may also be unresolved. I combine somatic, IFS, and attachment modalities. My somatic training also provides expertise in helping those with chronic illness or pain and how this is related to mental health. Somatic work also is for those with after-effects of surgeries or accidents.
(512) 900-7267 View (512) 900-7267
Photo of Kirsten A. Brunner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirsten A. Brunner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620  (Online Only)
I believe that it takes tremendous courage for an individual to reach out for counseling. People often take this step when they are feeling stuck or stagnant, unable to find relief and solutions on their own. I view my work with my clients as a partnership: I bring clinical knowledge and experience to the alliance and my clients bring their strengths, their inner wisdom, and their readiness to explore. While working together I provide a safe, comfortable and informative environment in which the client can find healing, seek solutions and create strategies that will bring about lasting change.
I believe that it takes tremendous courage for an individual to reach out for counseling. People often take this step when they are feeling stuck or stagnant, unable to find relief and solutions on their own. I view my work with my clients as a partnership: I bring clinical knowledge and experience to the alliance and my clients bring their strengths, their inner wisdom, and their readiness to explore. While working together I provide a safe, comfortable and informative environment in which the client can find healing, seek solutions and create strategies that will bring about lasting change.
(512) 337-3983 View (512) 337-3983
Photo of Cheryl A Tyler, MS, LPC, CCST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl A Tyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Hi - thank you for taking time to read my profile. If you choose to work with me, I will make every effort to help you feel comfortable and safe, yet challenged to make positive changes in your life. Sometimes trying to handle life on your own can be difficult - especially when you are emotionally close to your situation. With what we're collectively going through, things you were dealing with prior can feel even more intense. In exchange for your willingness to reach out, I will work to offer you support, guidance and a new perspective.
Hi - thank you for taking time to read my profile. If you choose to work with me, I will make every effort to help you feel comfortable and safe, yet challenged to make positive changes in your life. Sometimes trying to handle life on your own can be difficult - especially when you are emotionally close to your situation. With what we're collectively going through, things you were dealing with prior can feel even more intense. In exchange for your willingness to reach out, I will work to offer you support, guidance and a new perspective.
(512) 430-4531 View (512) 430-4531
Photo of Rachael Elizabeth Maly - Art & Soul Counseling, Psychotherapy , Licensed Professional Counselor
Art & Soul Counseling, Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Seeking help is a huge step & I'm so glad you're here! Is anxiety, depression, or stress weighing you down? Are problems with your partner, children (young or adult), or others causing you grief? Do you work so hard but still seem to get triggered and wounded? If you seek to break unhealthy patterns and beliefs from the past, want to move into the life you desire, get in touch with or expand lost parts of yourself; there is a way, and you do not have to do it alone! Whether you're healing journey is underway or you're just getting started, I would love to support you in walking your path and create the space you need for healing.
Seeking help is a huge step & I'm so glad you're here! Is anxiety, depression, or stress weighing you down? Are problems with your partner, children (young or adult), or others causing you grief? Do you work so hard but still seem to get triggered and wounded? If you seek to break unhealthy patterns and beliefs from the past, want to move into the life you desire, get in touch with or expand lost parts of yourself; there is a way, and you do not have to do it alone! Whether you're healing journey is underway or you're just getting started, I would love to support you in walking your path and create the space you need for healing.
(281) 369-9165 View (281) 369-9165
Photo of Sarah Brown, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Sarah. Maybe you feel stuck right now. Maybe things feel hard and you're just not sure what to do. Maybe you've noticed unresolved feelings, or big feelings, coming back again and again. Maybe you feel stuck in a relationship, a season in your life, or your identity. Maybe it feels like things might always feel this way. Clients that I work with are curious about their experiences. Whether it's noticing past patterns, current feelings, or experimenting with doing something different, the clients that I see often want to understand more about themselves, to show up for themselves in ways they hope to be.
Hi, I'm Sarah. Maybe you feel stuck right now. Maybe things feel hard and you're just not sure what to do. Maybe you've noticed unresolved feelings, or big feelings, coming back again and again. Maybe you feel stuck in a relationship, a season in your life, or your identity. Maybe it feels like things might always feel this way. Clients that I work with are curious about their experiences. Whether it's noticing past patterns, current feelings, or experimenting with doing something different, the clients that I see often want to understand more about themselves, to show up for themselves in ways they hope to be.
(512) 991-9280 View (512) 991-9280

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Charlie Love - Charlie Love, MS, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charlie Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737  (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.
(512) 402-6913 View (512) 402-6913
Photo of Pat Sumption, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Sumption
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
I work with people, not labels. It’s about you, not a diagnosis. And it’s about me, not a degree. It becomes about us working together for your goals, whatever those are-I can help. We’re so surprised when we feel something but it “doesn’t make sense”. We “should” ourselves & judge. We waste a helluva lot of time doing this. How often have you tried to think yourself out of a feeling? I know!! Me too. Doesn't work. Together we can figure out how & why you think & feel the way you do. You can't think your way out of depression, anxiety, trauma or anything else. You can talk & feel yourself out, though. Here is what I believe.
I work with people, not labels. It’s about you, not a diagnosis. And it’s about me, not a degree. It becomes about us working together for your goals, whatever those are-I can help. We’re so surprised when we feel something but it “doesn’t make sense”. We “should” ourselves & judge. We waste a helluva lot of time doing this. How often have you tried to think yourself out of a feeling? I know!! Me too. Doesn't work. Together we can figure out how & why you think & feel the way you do. You can't think your way out of depression, anxiety, trauma or anything else. You can talk & feel yourself out, though. Here is what I believe.
(512) 699-1561 View (512) 699-1561
Photo of Daphne Jaguar Browell, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daphne Jaguar Browell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78738  (Online Only)
So you are looking for a therapist and possibly wondering “why should I choose this therapist over any other?” Good question. Once you’ve found a therapist with a solid background in what you want to address, it is all about therapeutic approach and personality fit (the elusive rapport). In our initial introductory conversation (15 minute call) you can tell me about what you are looking for, I'll tell you about myself, and we’ll see if I am a fit. You can also visit my website for more details on me and my practice: TherapistBrowell.com
So you are looking for a therapist and possibly wondering “why should I choose this therapist over any other?” Good question. Once you’ve found a therapist with a solid background in what you want to address, it is all about therapeutic approach and personality fit (the elusive rapport). In our initial introductory conversation (15 minute call) you can tell me about what you are looking for, I'll tell you about myself, and we’ll see if I am a fit. You can also visit my website for more details on me and my practice: TherapistBrowell.com
(214) 833-7390 View (214) 833-7390
Photo of Laura Bowen, MA, LPC-S , MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S , MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78738
Anyone that is struggling with stress, burn out, anxiety and overwhelm. I want to be able to help a client that is externally organized to become more internally organized. My belief about anxiety and how I help to treat it, is to find ways to release the trapped emotions that are held in the body.
Anyone that is struggling with stress, burn out, anxiety and overwhelm. I want to be able to help a client that is externally organized to become more internally organized. My belief about anxiety and how I help to treat it, is to find ways to release the trapped emotions that are held in the body.
(281) 603-9113 View (281) 603-9113

Online Therapists

Photo of Brenna Ansley, MA, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenna Ansley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
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.
(512) 861-8787 View (512) 861-8787
Photo of Mika Tannenbaum, LCSW, IRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mika Tannenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IRT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I am currently accepting couples interested in Imago Relationship Therapy. Sometimes we turn our pain into suffering, either by pushing away or being overtaken by our emotions and problems. Just like our physical bodies, our emotional selves need to be tended to and nurtured. Without maintenance, we can default to old ways of coping and make things worse. I work with you to discover new ways of coping, and understanding your experiences so you can feel more emotionally at ease and functional in your day-to-day life.
I am currently accepting couples interested in Imago Relationship Therapy. Sometimes we turn our pain into suffering, either by pushing away or being overtaken by our emotions and problems. Just like our physical bodies, our emotional selves need to be tended to and nurtured. Without maintenance, we can default to old ways of coping and make things worse. I work with you to discover new ways of coping, and understanding your experiences so you can feel more emotionally at ease and functional in your day-to-day life.
(512) 991-0674 View (512) 991-0674
Photo of Paul Boone - Paul Boone, LPC, MDiv, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(512) 851-0660 View (512) 851-0660
Photo of Brendan Harvey, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(512) 337-4844 View (512) 337-4844
Photo of Donna Davis, LPC, Counselor
Donna Davis
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, TX 78628  (Online Only)
I am trained in many therapeutic approaches including Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method, Imago Relationship Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
My name is Donna Davis and I am a licensed professional counselor who has worked with individuals, couples, families, children and groups for the last 30 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns and challenges. Relationship issues......with spouse, parent, child, friend, boss, self or God, are often a motivation for seeking help. I have helped many clients with the difficulty of life transitions of all kinds, including grieving.
I am trained in many therapeutic approaches including Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method, Imago Relationship Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
My name is Donna Davis and I am a licensed professional counselor who has worked with individuals, couples, families, children and groups for the last 30 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns and challenges. Relationship issues......with spouse, parent, child, friend, boss, self or God, are often a motivation for seeking help. I have helped many clients with the difficulty of life transitions of all kinds, including grieving.
(832) 979-8230 View (832) 979-8230
Photo of Emily D. Harrington-Cheney, MA, LPC, IRT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily D. Harrington-Cheney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, IRT
Verified Verified
8 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.
(512) 842-4896 View (512) 842-4896
Photo of Steve Cheney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steve Cheney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
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.
(512) 229-9972 View (512) 229-9972
Photo of Marty Romero Brickley - Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(512) 354-2813 View (512) 354-2813
Photo of James Maxwell, LPC, MEd, MA, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Maxwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78757
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.
(512) 548-4405 View (512) 548-4405

See more therapy options for Dripping Springs

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.