Relationship Counseling
Relationships are difficult even when you know what works.
Unfortunately, most people never get even the most basic information or understanding needed to have successful long term committed relationships. Most couples find things shift more easily after getting information, understanding how their past can influence their current relationship, and after they gain the skills needed to communicate safely with each other.
Some clients need someone to translate between two different worlds. Others need help in clarifying what each person wants. Whatever your needs are for your relationship, I can help you figure out a way forward. The Imago paradigm is articulated in the book, "Getting the Love You Want" by Harville Hendrix. Its main premise it that when we bump up against painful places in our current relationship they have two meanings. One is obvious and one is unconscious and based on earlier memories of pain. As we uncover this second meaning we build compassion for you from your partner and a deeper self understanding. In addition, if you are both committed to the work, you can heal the original pain and gain a greater connection in your current relationship. Click here for Couple's Weekend Workshops |
“I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love.” - Mother Teresa
Every relationship is unique, but if you need help getting out of a challenging and painful pattern, couple's therapy can help.
Sexual Diversity
In working with a very diverse group of people I have found that what society thinks is going on in the bedroom is often wrong. Every couple is different and thus each sex life and what is "normal" varies a great deal. If you want a safe place to talk about sex or help talking about this topic, then I may be a good therapist for you. Same Sex Couples I have heard people say "couples are couples" and that is true, but in reality it is important for a couple's therapist to not just be open to diversity, but to affirm it's validity. I work hard to show sensitivity to the complexity of gender, gender expression, other aspects of identity and sexual diversity in any relationship. In working with same sex couples I have found that the Imago Dialogue is a powerful way to find connection in your relationship. Click here for more information on scheduling an appointment. |
Imago
Michelle is a certified Imago Relationship therapist. This therapy is based on the book "Getting The Love You Want," by Harville Hendrix. "Imago" means image in Latin and is meant to communicate the idea that our early relationships influence our long-term committed relationships without assistance in bringing these patterns into our awareness. Michelle is certified by IRI, an international organization dedicated to training and developing therapists who help others in their relationships.
