What to expect in couples therapy.

Imago therapy is different.

Imago's collaborative approach often takes fewer sessions than other forms of therapy to uncover the root problems and patterns fueling most conflict and disconnection.

I teach and guide couples to communicate in a safe and structured way that removes blame, shame and criticism. I’ll teach you to use conflict as an opportunity for healing and growth.

Let’s take a quick look at the three aspects of the Imago Dialogue. Within this dialogue there is a "sender" and a "receiver," the sender being the one to share thoughts and feelings openly with their receiver. The "receiver" practices the following three steps during the Imago dialogue:

1. Mirroring: Repeating back what you have heard your partner say in order to gain clarification and understanding. The receiver does this with no judgment, criticism, or response, but simply repeating back what they have heard their partner say.

2. Validation: The receiver works to validate parts of what their partner (the sender) has shared, what makes sense to them. As they are doing this, they are letting their partner know that they "get it" and are actively trying to understand. If there are parts that the receiver does not yet understand, they can ask the sender to share more.

3. Empathy: At this point in the dialogue, the receiver shares with their partner what they think the other might be feeling. Sharing on this level is a way to let their partner know they are gaining a deeper understanding of their emotional experience, allowing the partner to feel seen and heard.

Imago invites both partners to be curious, rather than judgmental.

Learning how to resolve conflict in healthy and loving ways helps to avoid lasting damage, resentment or hurt that can slowly tear relationships apart. Imago teaches specific skills and guiding principles designed to empower couples and individuals to:

• Express feelings in a non-confrontational, safe and structured environment.

• Address the root of conflicts rather than problem-solve specific incidents.

• Embrace the fact that each partner has different needs, wants and expectations.

• Make small changes that create big differences in terms of happiness and fulfillment.

• Build a more intimate, trusting and mutually supportive relationship.

Are you ready to take the first steps to rejuvenating your relationship? It’s an exciting journey filled with good work and I’m honored to help you take your relationship to a new level!