Guided Imagery and Music

The Helen Bonny of Guided Imagery and Music (BMGIM) is a recognized music-centered approach, developed by Helen Bonny, to delve into the issues you are dealing with in your life and to generate relevant insights.  Music in BMGIM allows imagery to come forth to access and explore a client’s inner thoughts and experiences bringing them into the forefront to delve into in a therapeutic model.

Therapists trained in the Bonny Method GIM use both traditional verbal psychotherapy and pre-recorded classical music to stimulate journeys of the imagination, whether visual or kinesthetic. This therapy facilitates the integration of the mind, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of well-being. (http://ami-bonnymethod.org)

GIM sessions consist of:

  • A verbal check-in: Preliminary Conversation where a client and therapist discuss what is most present with the client for this session

  • A guided induction: The client is invited to recline as the therapist offers techniques in preparation for the music to begin

  • Travel and Music: Deep listening session of pre-recorded classical music while being supported by the therapist. Throughout the music, the client is encouraged to share out loud what they are experiencing in the moment in order for the therapist to be witness to what the client is experiencing

    • The music can allow images of the imagination and feelings to emerge which are then further explored after the music ends.

    • This approach encourages the exploration of problems, issues, and strengths for clients while creating internal growth and expansion in life choices.

    • This holistic process allows a person to tap into their inner world of imagery, while generating new understandings and insights, empowering them to face their situations in their everyday lives.

  • Postlude: After the music, the client is aided by the therapist to return to their waking conscious state. During this time, the client can process what they experienced verbally and/or through drawing a mandala.

  • A session lasts approximately 90 minutes, and the suggested frequency is every 2 weeks for a session in order for clients to process what came up for them.

    • We can always meet in between sessions to process more deeply with Music and Imagery and/or a verbal psychotherapy session if the client needs or wants.

    • Music and Imagery is a shorter session using one or two pieces of music while focusing on one specific idea or thought the client has, allowing them to go deeper into this process.

Each experience is unique to each individual and there is no right or wrong way to experience the music during your journey. Know that the creativity is within you and trust that you can access if and when you need.

The connection with music can be a deep and powerful one whether you use it to relax, to connect with oneself, and/or to connect with others. Regardless of how you use music, you could benefit from the GIM model if you are an adult looking to explore and process personal issues in your life.

Services

  • Trauma

  • Life transition

  • Self discovery

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Attachment Issues

  • Relationship Issues

  • Food related issues

Approaches

  • Person-Centered Therapy

  • Music-Centered Therapy

  • Holistic Therapy

  • Supportive Therapy

  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy