The goal of Imago Relationship Therapy is to find desired love, maintain it, and create a safe and deep connection with your partner. The therapy helps couples better understand how to resolve conflicts in a way that keeps both parties connected. In the safe space created by therapy, couples can open up more deeply, relax, and allow themselves to be vulnerable. Clear and open communication is key to a long and loving relationship. Facing and overcoming obstacles as a couple increases the ability to constructively express emerging insecurities and frustrations. Imago helps in this renewed togetherness to find deep spiritual peace and joy.
Relationship therapy is also intended for those considering divorce but still seeking a way to continue their relationship in a new way. It is also suitable for couples who are just deciding to start living together and want to do so consciously from the beginning, to experience an even deeper connection with their partner.
Imago dialogue is highly structured. Your Imago therapist will teach you communication techniques that allow you to reach deeper layers of the conflict at hand. This requires one of you to be the sender and the other the receiver. Once one person has gone through all the steps, you switch roles so that both of you experience each role.
Imago emphasizes the importance of deep listening skills and emotional regulation. The therapist creates an active communication environment.
The following video provides a good overview of the Imago Relationship Therapy process.
While Imago Relationship Therapy is generally suitable for most couples who want to work on themselves and their relationship, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Some contraindications include:
Imago Relationship Therapy was developed by Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt. Hendrix, a clinical psychologist and author, met his future wife, Helen LaKelly Hunt, in 1977. Together, they began exploring relationship dynamics and the need to create healthy relationships. After years of research and practical experience, they decided to develop a new psychotherapy approach in the early 1980s, which they named Imago Relationship Therapy.
The following video provides a good overview of the Imago Relationship Therapy process.