Charon Normand Widmer LMSW is a licensed psychotherapist, somatic sex therapist and trauma specialist. She specializes in working with individuals and couples seeking support navigating erotic, gender and sexual identity challenges; queer and alternative relationships, and trauma, utilizing a strengths-based, psychodynamic, compassion-based approach. Many seek therapy to feel better; working with Charon entails learning how to get better at feeling.
In the realm of relationships, it is essential to recognize that the dynamics we experience with our partners are not merely products of chance. Instead, they are co-created patterns influenced by our individual histories, unconscious expectations, and mutual interactions. One therapeutic approach that delves deeply into this concept is Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), developed by Dr. Harville Hendrix and Dr. Helen LaKelly Hunt in the 1980s.
Understanding Imago relationship therapy
The term “Imago” is derived from Latin, meaning “image.” In the context of IRT, it refers to the unconscious image we carry from childhood experiences, particularly those related to our primary caregivers. These early interactions shape our perceptions of love and influence our adult relationships. Essentially, we are drawn to partners who mirror the positive and negative traits of our caregivers, seeking to heal unresolved childhood wounds through these relationships.
Co-creation of relationship patterns
In relationships, both partners bring their unique “Imago” into the partnership. This means that the patterns, whether harmonious or conflictual, are co-created based on each individual’s unconscious expectations and past experiences. For instance, if one partner experienced neglect in childhood, they might be hypersensitive to perceived neglect in the relationship, leading to reactions that can trigger their partner’s own unresolved issues. This interplay can create a cycle of misunderstandings and conflicts.
The role of Imago therapy in transforming patterns
Imago Relationship Therapy provides tools to transform these unconscious patterns into conscious understanding and healing. One of the core techniques is the “Imago Dialogue,” a structured communication process that encourages partners to listen actively and empathetically. This dialogue involves three steps:
Mirroring: Reflecting back on what was heard without interpretation.
Validation: Acknowledging the partner’s experience as valid, even if there is disagreement.
Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of the partner.
Through this process, couples can break negative cycles and foster a deeper connection.
Moving towards conscious relationships
By bringing unconscious patterns to light, couples can co-create healthier dynamics. This requires both partners to take responsibility for their contributions to the relationship patterns and work collaboratively toward change. Embracing the principles of Imago Therapy can lead to relationships that are not only more satisfying but also serve as a path for personal growth and healing. IRT is one of the therapeutic modalities I utilize in my couples therapy sessions and has yielded excellent results.
Conclusion
Understanding that we co-create our relationship patterns empowers us to make conscious choices in our interactions. By exploring therapeutic approaches like Imago Relationship Therapy, couples can transform conflicts into opportunities for deeper connection and mutual healing. Remember, the journey toward a conscious and fulfilling relationship is a collaborative effort, rooted in empathy, understanding, and intentionality.
Charon Normand-Widmer, Sex Therapist, Relationship Coach
Charon Normand Widmer LMSW is a licensed psychotherapist, somatic sex therapist and trauma specialist. She specializes in working with individuals and couples seeking support navigating erotic, gender and sexual identity challenges; queer and alternative relationships, and trauma, utilizing a strengths-based, psychodynamic, compassion-based approach. Many seek therapy to feel better; working with Charon entails learning how to get better at feeling.
