About Imago Relationship Therapy
What is Imago Therapy?
Developed by renowned therapists Harville Hendrix, Ph.D., and Helen LaKelly Hunt, Ph.D. in the late 1980’s, Imago Relationship Therapy focuses on how past experiences shape the ways we connect and communicate with others. It offers lasting, transformative change instead of just “patching up” conflicts.
Drawing on insights from psychology, neuroscience, and attachment theory, Imago uncovers the unconscious forces that influence our relationship patterns.
By helping people recognize and understand these patterns, Imago enables more effective communication, deeper empathy, and constructive conflict resolution.
Their impact
Together, Harville and Helen have been instrumental in transforming the way people relate to one another in intimate, familial, and even professional settings.
Harville has appeared 17 times on The Oprah Winfrey Show, where Oprah referred to him as “the marriage whisperer.”
They have authored 14 books – including three New York Times bestsellers - which have sold millions of copies worldwide.
With more 2,000 certified therapists practicing in more than 30 countries, Imago Relationship Therapy has helped millions of people around the world.
Harville and Helen’s groundbreaking work continues to inspire individuals and couples to build healthier, more fulfilling relationships worldwide.
“An Imago is the unconscious image of love we carry inside, shaped by our childhood experiences. It influences how we choose our partners and how we relate to them. When we address the Imago in therapy, we can unlock patterns that no longer serve us, allowing us to experience deeper emotional connection and healthier relationships.”
— Dr. Harville Hendrix, Co-Creator of Imago Relationship Therapy
How can Imago therapy make a difference for me?
It’s about building connections that support you in every part of life — family, friends, colleagues, and your own self-talk.
You’ll not only feel heard but also feel known on a deeper level.
Instead of focusing on temporary solutions, Imago will help change how you communicate, helping you grow together in every season of life.
Imago reveals how childhood experiences affect adult relationships, giving you a chance to heal from those early wounds.
Through Imago you’ll learn how to rebuild trust, strengthen emotional connection, and break free from recurring arguments.
The skills you learn in Imago, like active listening and conscious dialogue, stay with you for life, helping you in friendships, family relationships, and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Imago Therapy isn't just for couples—it can benefit anyone seeking to improve their relationships.
Whether you’re navigating conflicts with a partner, family, friends, or coworkers, Imago can help you build healthier, more fulfilling connections.
-
Unlike traditional therapies that may focus on individual behaviors or cognitive patterns, Imago Therapy places a strong emphasis on the relational dynamic.
It guides you through specific dialogues that foster empathy, understanding, and deep connection, enabling both partners to share their experiences without judgment.
-
Imago Therapy sessions typically involve structured dialogue exercises that facilitate communication between you and your partner, or help individuals gain insight into their relational patterns.
You’ll be guided by your therapist to practice active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution techniques in a supportive environment.
-
No! Imago Therapy is just as effective for individuals as it is for couples.
If you’re looking to improve your relationship with yourself or others, this therapy can help you gain insight into your relational patterns and develop healthier ways to connect.
-
Yes! Imago Therapy is supported by decades of research and clinical experience.
Studies have shown it to be highly effective for couples seeking to improve their communication and resolve relational conflicts.
It’s a proven approach for transforming relationships and fostering long-lasting emotional connection.
-
When choosing an Imago therapist, it’s important to look for someone who is certified in Imago Therapy and licensed in their field.
Imago therapists undergo extensive training to ensure they provide the best support for you and your relationships.
You can find a directory of Imago therapists on our site for easy access.
We’re here to help
Imago Therapy helps you stop repeating old patterns and create healthier connections.