We are not taught to have healthy relationships in our culture, even though this is one of the most important things affecting our entire society. The best gift we can give our children is a healthy relationship between parents, but how will we know how to create one?
Harville Hendrix developed IMAGO therapy. IMAGO is one of the best, most well-known, and most effective couple's therapy. I was personally trained and certified by Harville Hendrix in 1990. Since then, I have been implementing it into my couples therapy.
IMAGO couples therapy teaches healthy communication, conflict resolution, increased intimacy, and the skills to increase passion. All of which you will learn when you come to me for couples therapy.
When most people meet, they are in a romantic love stage. This is where it feels like you have known each other forever and only see the good points. In the phase Harville labels power struggle, we are becoming aware of our partner's "flaws"; this causes power struggles and stress.
In Imago therapy, we teach you skills to come through the power struggle and increase intimacy. These skills include learning healthy communication, which is the opposite of "normal communication."
Usually, when two people talk, both are focused on convincing the other that they are right. In this version of regular communication, no one is listening. If no one is listening, then no one will feel understood. If all parties do not feel understood, there is no ability to move on and resolve issues of feelings of hurt or disrespect. You stay stuck.
During couples therapy, I will work with you to identify the issues and concerns causing problems in the relationship. This may involve exploring each other's experiences, feelings, and communication patterns. I may also help you as the couple develops new skills and strategies for resolving conflicts and improving communication.
Couples therapy can benefit couples regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. I only do 90-minute couples sessions. I never give a couple of homework to do that have not been done in session with me.
IMAGO therapy is so powerful that I saved two couples in one session who walked in, determined to get a divorce. One thing that you may not know is that many times I can do couples therapy with just one partner.
You and your partner must be aware and prepared for other issues in therapy. These issues can include anxiety, depression, and other emotions from the past. The gift of being in couples therapy is your partner can help heal these past experiences and the wounds they left.
