Imago Therapists in San Marcos, TX

Photo of Janel Scholtz, SEP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janel Scholtz
Licensed Professional Counselor, SEP, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Welcome! I am accepting new clients. I offer in person therapy in San Marcos, Texas. I offer online therapy for individuals and couples living in California. I am passionate about helping people live a full life, where they are not just surviving but thriving. How we interpret our experiences can cause us to become panicked, anxious, fearful, angry, depressed, numb or alone.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients. I offer in person therapy in San Marcos, Texas. I offer online therapy for individuals and couples living in California. I am passionate about helping people live a full life, where they are not just surviving but thriving. How we interpret our experiences can cause us to become panicked, anxious, fearful, angry, depressed, numb or alone.
(858) 264-3065 View (858) 264-3065
Photo of Jessica Baker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
Do you feel powerless and struggle in your relationships? Do you live in a cycle of worry and regret? I believe the goal of therapy is never to eliminate parts of ourselves, but rather to create relationships with the parts that scare us the most. My therapeutic approach assists clients with intimacy and shifts the extreme roles their parts play in their lives. I believe intimacy within ourselves makes space for compassion, power, courage, clarity, and choice. The ultimate result I hope my clients to achieve is to live a peaceful life with intention and purpose.
Do you feel powerless and struggle in your relationships? Do you live in a cycle of worry and regret? I believe the goal of therapy is never to eliminate parts of ourselves, but rather to create relationships with the parts that scare us the most. My therapeutic approach assists clients with intimacy and shifts the extreme roles their parts play in their lives. I believe intimacy within ourselves makes space for compassion, power, courage, clarity, and choice. The ultimate result I hope my clients to achieve is to live a peaceful life with intention and purpose.
(512) 710-2671 View (512) 710-2671
Photo of Jennifer Lee Jones - Private Couple Retreat Program (Idealized Design) , MEd, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Private Couple Retreat Program (Idealized Design)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Deepen, reignite/repair or decide? You, your partner and therapist, no groups. Did you historically have to rely on yourself? Are you tired of suffering, ready to resolve core issues? Affairs, conflict, fears with intimacy, abandonment, narcissistic abuse recovery, performance anxiety, sexual "baggage," infertility and adoption, chronic health issues, long distance, inter-racial, separation/divorce, parental alienation, co-parenting, dating post divorce, identity and healing intergenerational trauma. Digital resources available via lovesextrustproductions.com.
Deepen, reignite/repair or decide? You, your partner and therapist, no groups. Did you historically have to rely on yourself? Are you tired of suffering, ready to resolve core issues? Affairs, conflict, fears with intimacy, abandonment, narcissistic abuse recovery, performance anxiety, sexual "baggage," infertility and adoption, chronic health issues, long distance, inter-racial, separation/divorce, parental alienation, co-parenting, dating post divorce, identity and healing intergenerational trauma. Digital resources available via lovesextrustproductions.com.
(361) 596-3928 View (361) 596-3928
Photo of Jennifer Jones - Private Couple Retreat Program (Idealized Design), LMFT, MEd, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Private Couple Retreat Program (Idealized Design)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Deepen, reignite/repair or decide? You, your partner and therapist, no groups. Did you historically have to rely on yourself? Are you tired of suffering, ready to resolve core issues? Affairs, conflict, fears with intimacy, abandonment, narcissistic abuse recovery, performance anxiety, sexual "baggage," infertility and adoption, chronic health issues, long distance, inter-racial, separation/divorce, parental alienation, co-parenting, dating post divorce, identity and healing intergenerational trauma. Digital resources available via lovesextrustproductions.com.
Deepen, reignite/repair or decide? You, your partner and therapist, no groups. Did you historically have to rely on yourself? Are you tired of suffering, ready to resolve core issues? Affairs, conflict, fears with intimacy, abandonment, narcissistic abuse recovery, performance anxiety, sexual "baggage," infertility and adoption, chronic health issues, long distance, inter-racial, separation/divorce, parental alienation, co-parenting, dating post divorce, identity and healing intergenerational trauma. Digital resources available via lovesextrustproductions.com.
(512) 337-4259 View (512) 337-4259
Photo of Kathleen Loisel, MA, LPC-S, BSN, RYT-200
Kathleen Loisel
MA, LPC-S, BSN, RYT-200
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Waitlist for new clients
In my experience, I've found that people come to therapy when they are in a crisis situation or encounter something that seems too overwhelming to face on their own. I approach my work in a collaborative way that promotes self-awareness, understanding, support and discovery, promoting safety and understanding. By focusing strengths, I hope to assist my clients in finding healthy ways to cope with stressors, achieve desired changes, better understand how they relate to others and the world, develop personal potential and empower in a gentle, purposeful manner.
In my experience, I've found that people come to therapy when they are in a crisis situation or encounter something that seems too overwhelming to face on their own. I approach my work in a collaborative way that promotes self-awareness, understanding, support and discovery, promoting safety and understanding. By focusing strengths, I hope to assist my clients in finding healthy ways to cope with stressors, achieve desired changes, better understand how they relate to others and the world, develop personal potential and empower in a gentle, purposeful manner.
(512) 601-4480 View (512) 601-4480
Photo of Theodore A Carlos, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theodore A Carlos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
Feeling stuck, angry, depressed, or confused? Are you fed up, with yourself, your partner, or family members? Are you struggling financially? Are looking for a different career or starting one? Are your struggling with school or college? Do you have feelings and thoughts that you do not understand, and don't feel comfortable talking to friends or family about them? These are common experiences for many people in our complicated society. Sometimes people "act out", fall into addictions, just shut down, or make bad decisions. They want change, but are not sure how. That's when counseling and analysis can really help.
Feeling stuck, angry, depressed, or confused? Are you fed up, with yourself, your partner, or family members? Are you struggling financially? Are looking for a different career or starting one? Are your struggling with school or college? Do you have feelings and thoughts that you do not understand, and don't feel comfortable talking to friends or family about them? These are common experiences for many people in our complicated society. Sometimes people "act out", fall into addictions, just shut down, or make bad decisions. They want change, but are not sure how. That's when counseling and analysis can really help.
(512) 883-5015 View (512) 883-5015
Photo of Cheryl A Tyler, MS, LPC, CCST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl A Tyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
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 Pamela Monday, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela Monday
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
I have a passion for teaching individuals, couples and families how to improve their relationships, build confidence and self-esteem, and find greater happiness and satisfaction in life. I work with clients to help them develop strategies and learn specific skills to reach the goals they desire, while also understanding how their changes will impact the people around them. Therapy should feel hopeful and productive, and I love seeing people grow and change and feel more empowered, peaceful and happy with their lives as they learn new things and experience the satisfaction of seeing rapid change.
I have a passion for teaching individuals, couples and families how to improve their relationships, build confidence and self-esteem, and find greater happiness and satisfaction in life. I work with clients to help them develop strategies and learn specific skills to reach the goals they desire, while also understanding how their changes will impact the people around them. Therapy should feel hopeful and productive, and I love seeing people grow and change and feel more empowered, peaceful and happy with their lives as they learn new things and experience the satisfaction of seeing rapid change.
(512) 549-8072 View (512) 549-8072
Photo of Pamm Thomas, MA-LCDC, MAC, NCACII, AADC-S, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Pamm Thomas
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA-LCDC, MAC, NCACII, AADC-S, SAP
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Often one is asked what is wrong with you when they should be asking what happened to you. Often, we are told to snap out of our thing...But wait! just because you cannot get with our thing doesn't mean our thing is wrong! Oh, pull ourselves up by the bootstraps…however, we may have lost our boots, the strings, or our treads are worn...So much for everyone else's perception of our stuff. You cannot change what cannot see! This is a non-judgment safe zone. Come in for an annual addiction check-up, services, or assessment. You got you and I git you! Let me support you through the change process. P.S. be ready.
Often one is asked what is wrong with you when they should be asking what happened to you. Often, we are told to snap out of our thing...But wait! just because you cannot get with our thing doesn't mean our thing is wrong! Oh, pull ourselves up by the bootstraps…however, we may have lost our boots, the strings, or our treads are worn...So much for everyone else's perception of our stuff. You cannot change what cannot see! This is a non-judgment safe zone. Come in for an annual addiction check-up, services, or assessment. You got you and I git you! Let me support you through the change process. P.S. be ready.
(512) 399-4628 View (512) 399-4628

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Matt Godwin, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matt Godwin
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Kyle, TX 78640  (Online Only)
Pain can lead to the most profound feelings of isolation and hopelessness. I have experience working with individuals, families, and couples, helping people during the most vulnerable times in their lives and have seen first hand how unresolved and damaged relationships have negatively impacted people and caused pain. One of people's biggest regrets at end-of-life are the relationships they have neglected. One of my greatest passions is working with individuals and families to address hurts and impasses: being both witness and participant.
Pain can lead to the most profound feelings of isolation and hopelessness. I have experience working with individuals, families, and couples, helping people during the most vulnerable times in their lives and have seen first hand how unresolved and damaged relationships have negatively impacted people and caused pain. One of people's biggest regrets at end-of-life are the relationships they have neglected. One of my greatest passions is working with individuals and families to address hurts and impasses: being both witness and participant.
(512) 270-3544 View (512) 270-3544

Online Therapists

Photo of Emily D. Harrington-Cheney, MA, LPC, IRT, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(512) 842-4896 View (512) 842-4896
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 Ann Marie Glick, MA , LMFT-S, LPC-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Marie Glick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
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.
(512) 790-6930 View (512) 790-6930
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 Bob Beare, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bob Beare
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
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.
(512) 561-9993 View (512) 561-9993
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 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 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
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 Adrienn Parker, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(346) 478-8609 View (346) 478-8609
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.