Irina Ivanova is a Master of Psychology, a certified Clinical Psychologist, and a Faculty Member at the Imago International Training Institute (IITI). She serves as the Rector of the International Institute of Imago Training and Couples Counseling in Russia.

She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from Saint Petersburg State University and a degree in Clinical Psychology from Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University.

With over two decades of dedication to the Imago approach, Irina has played a pioneering role in bringing the relational paradigm to Russian-speaking communities. Starting her journey over 20 years ago, she has since built a thriving Imago community from the ground up, training a new generation of therapists and workshop presenters. Under her leadership, the Russian branch has grown into a robust organization, offering comprehensive clinical training, advanced courses, and ongoing supervision.

Rooted in a deep respect for the legacy of Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt, Irina’s work focuses on bridging cultural and linguistic gaps. She is known for her warm, direct, and deeply supportive teaching style, mentoring associates as they integrate Imago theory with their practical clinical skills. Her approach blends professional rigor with a profound commitment to creating safe spaces where therapists can discover their authentic voices and grow.

Beyond her administrative and teaching roles, Irina is a passionate advocate for the relational paradigm in the broader therapeutic community. She frequently leads workshops and presentations for individual therapists and professionals, helping them integrate relational principles into their work with individuals and couples.

As a dedicated mentor and leader, Irina finds her greatest joy in supporting new faculty members, helping them build supportive communities and navigate their professional journeys with confidence and grace.