- Do couples that attend a workshop still need ongoing support afterwards?
Many couples who attend the workshop pursue couples therapy. The workshop provides deep exposure to the theory, philosophy and practice of Imago Therapy. Becoming adept at the communication process called couples dialogue takes time and practice. Couples often seek further guidance and support. Sometimes the best form of ongoing support is through support follow-up groups.
- Are we asked to reveal our private issues and concerns in the workshop?
This workshop is mostly an educational experience. There is lecture, group discussion, and personal work between partners in private. No pressure is placed on anyone to share or reveal personal concerns. Demonstrations of communication process are done with couples that are comfortable in front of a group, but there is no requirement to participate. Safety and privacy are highly protected and respected.
- What theoretical orientation is this workshop and therapy process based on?
Most of this work is based on the writings of Dr. Harville Hendrix who wrote the internationally renowned book Getting The Love You Want. The therapy he developed is called Imago Therapy and is centered on the idea that we each create realities around beliefs formed in childhood and that we struggle because of the differences in these realities. Growth and connection occurs when we work together to bridge these different worlds.
Some of the workshop material is also representative of the research and findings of researcher Dr. John Gottman and neurobiologist Dr. Dan Siegel. Several studies in recent years have been done that complement and deepen the information offered in Imago Therapy.
- Will this workshop save my relationship?
Not necessarily, but many couples do experience dramatic changes that result in better communication and a more fulfilling relationship. When conflict is long standing, couples frequently need further direction and guidance to stay in the process that is learned in the workshop. But the workshop provides an important and often essential foundation for future relationship stability.
- Will this process be helpful to parents in raising their children?
Absolutely! Children need parents to model healthy skills for resolving differences. They also need parents able to establish boundaries in a way that is firm, non-shaming and respectful. Most of the theory and skills practiced in this workshop are essential to good parenting practices.
- Are the skills learned in this workshop useful outside the relationship itself?
Many participants have later told us of the benefits experienced when applying dialogical skills in friendships, business, and even self-management.
- Who attends these workshops? Do you have to be married? Can one attend alone?
No singles may attend these workshops. There is a workshop for singles available, however, and we can connect anyone interested in attending such a weekend. Partners in any committed relationship are appropriate for these workshops. Marriage is not a prerequisite.
- Is there a built in plan to help couples continue to apply the skills learned in the workshop?
We are always in the process of developing other group sessions that deepen the focus on specific aspects of the workshop materials. Couples who have attended a workshop are informed of these scheduled sessions. We sometimes “check-in” about one month after the workshop to answer questions and do any fine-tuning that might be needed at that time. Also, after attending a workshop we offer free consultation to therapists who have referred a couple so that continuity can occur.
Work on your relationship from the privacy of your home.
- What are the hours of the workshop and how much does it cost?
The two day workshop is Saturday 9am - 8pm and Sunday 9am - 6pm and the cost is $695 per couple.
The fees include manuals and handouts. Snacks, coffee, and other beverages are provided, but meals and lodging are on your own.
- How long have you been doing these workshops?
We have been doing these workshops since October of 1993. We now are presenting several workshops per year. New workshops are being developed.
- What is your refund policy?
We will transfer funds to another workshop if cancellation is within one week of the workshop. Refunds prior to that will require a $50 administrative expense.
