Meet Our Keynote Workshop Provider: Dr. Maya Kollman

As excitement builds for the first-ever Imago UK Conference, we’re delighted to introduce one of our inspiring keynote workshop providers, Dr. Maya Kollman, PhD, Master Trainer at the International Imago Training Institute (IITI).

With decades of experience as an educator, therapist, trainer and international speaker, Dr. Kollman brings a powerful and timely perspective to one of the most pressing challenges of modern relationships: how do we stay deeply connected to others without losing ourselves?

Her keynote workshop, From Fusion to Freedom: A Relational Way of Living, offers an experiential exploration of one of the central paradoxes of healthy relationships—the need for both closeness and autonomy.

The Challenge of Connection in Today’s World

In an age shaped by social isolation, political and ideological polarisation, increasing mental health challenges, and the lasting effects of trauma, many people find themselves pulled between two extremes. We either merge with others to maintain harmony, sacrificing parts of ourselves in the process, or we withdraw completely to protect our independence.

Neither extreme creates the kind of authentic, resilient relationships that people long for.

Drawing on contemporary relational theory, developmental psychology and experiential learning, Dr. Kollman’s workshop explores how this tension plays out not only in intimate partnerships but also in families, workplaces, leadership settings and wider society.

Participants will be invited to examine the “space between”—that living relational field where genuine dialogue, curiosity and growth become possible.

Beyond Couples Therapy

Although rooted in the principles of Imago Relationship Therapy, this workshop reaches far beyond the therapy room.

Whether you are a therapist, coach, educator, organisational leader or someone passionate about healthier relationships, the concepts explored have immediate practical relevance.

Dr. Kollman will demonstrate how patterns of fusion, emotional withdrawal and self-erasure often emerge under stress, and how practitioners and leaders can support others in moving towards healthier differentiation—remaining connected while maintaining a strong sense of self.

This balance is increasingly important in every area of life, from parenting and partnerships to team leadership and navigating cultural differences.

An Experiential Learning Experience

Rather than simply presenting theory, Dr. Kollman’s keynote is designed to be highly experiential.

Participants will have opportunities to reflect on their own relational patterns while exploring practical, embodied ways of remaining present in connection without collapsing into over-accommodation or emotional distance.

By integrating research, lived experience and practical application, the workshop creates space for meaningful personal insight alongside professional development.

Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of:

• The natural tension between connection and differentiation.
• How to recognise patterns of fusion, withdrawal and self-erasure.
• Why healthy differentiation is different from emotional distancing.
• Practical ways to remain connected while staying true to oneself.
• How these principles can strengthen parenting, leadership, therapy and wider cultural dialogue.

Join Us at the First Imago UK Conference

The inaugural Imago UK Conference brings together respected international speakers, experienced practitioners and relationship professionals committed to building healthier connections in every sphere of life.

Dr. Maya Kollman’s keynote perfectly reflects the conference’s vision: creating spaces where deeper understanding, authentic dialogue and transformational relationships can flourish.

Whether you’re an experienced Imago practitioner or simply curious about the power of relational work, this promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring session that will leave you with practical tools and fresh perspectives for both your professional practice and personal relationships.

We look forward to welcoming you to this landmark event and to sharing Dr. Maya Kollman’s inspiring keynote with our growing Imago community.

Find out more about the conference programme, meet all of our workshop providers, and reserve your place on the Imago UK website.