The Imago Dialogue is the central clinical tool through which this understanding is put to work. It is a structured three-stage process: mirroring, validating, and empathising. On the surface, it looks straightforward. Whilst it give a clear structure - in practice, its not as simple as it appears.

There is often a moment in couples work when the atmosphere shifts. Not dramatically — just a tightening of tone, a small recalibration of posture. And you realise the work is asking something different of you.

If you’re already working as a counsellor or therapist, there may come a point where you begin to wonder about the next stage in your professional development. This doesn’t always arrive as a clear plan — sometimes it shows up as curiosity, restlessness, or a sense that your work is asking something slightly different of you. For many practitioners, training to work with couples becomes a natural next step. Is it the right step for you?

What is Imago Relationship Therapy? This article explains more about the model and how it works.