Imago Relational Therapy (IRT) is a method of couples therapy invented and developed by Harville Hendrix and his wife Helen Lakelly Hunt (U.S.). It is a couples therapy approach that uses egalitarian dialogue to facilitate re-experiencing of painful memories and the automatic defensive behaviors they trigger. Through guided empathic and validating responses, IRT helps couples process these experiences and shift maladaptive relational patterns.

This presentation integrates neuroscience findings to explain IRT's mechanisms, focusing on three pathways: (1) activation of mirror neurons, (2) stimulation of oxytocin and the dopamine reward system, and (3) restoration of synchronization similar to mother-infant "kangaroo" contact, a phenomenon extensively studied in kangaroo studies (Feldman, R. 2007a, b; 2012).

IRT offers a chance for maladaptive interactions to happen in vivo in the therapy session. This affords an opportunity for the three steps necessary for unlocking the emotional brain (Ecker et al. 2012) to emerge: (1) that a hurtful situation, similar to the original, surfaces and ignites the negative experience as well as the associated reactions. (2) that the expected negative reaction does not recur. (3) that a different, beneficial reaction takes place repeatedly, until a new sequence consolidates. A process is initiated that brings about a biochemical rewriting of the synaptic signature of painful memories.Thus healthier, more satisfying couple relationship patterns are consolidated.

Regarding online IRT, vignettes from selected cases will explore unexpected benefits, such as transferring the secure setting from clinic to home (and even bedroom), the dynamic interplay between intimacy and distance, and opportunities to work with geographically separated couples.

Dorit Noy Sharav is an experienced Clinical Psychologist with a distinguished background in the mental health care sector. She possesses extensive expertise in psychology, counseling psychology, psychotherapy, and adoption-related interventions, including international adoption.