Frequently Asked Questions
- What is GIM?
- How do I know if GIM will help me?
- What does GIM have that traditional "talk" therapy doesn't?
- Does this technique work for everyone?
- What to expect in a typical GIM session
- Does the guide tell me what images to see?
- What kinds of music will I hear?
What is GIM?
GIM is a transformational approach that utilizes music to evoke a variety of images, body sensations, emotions, memories, and inspirations that can help a person move through difficult issues, reflect more deeply on their life’s journey, and make choices that result in a more meaningful life.
↑backHow do I know if GIM will help me?
Clients who are most likely to succeed in my program tend to have these characteristics:
- You have realistic expectations. You don't expect your life to change overnight or even next week or next month. You know that a smooth transition takes time and you're willing to allow that time -- even if it takes a year or two to complete the journey. You're patient and ready to take the steps necessary to make a major life shift.
- You'll do what it takes to create the life you were meant to live. You're open to new ideas, willing to step out of your comfort zone even when it's difficult, and ready to take action. You'll give it your best effort when working with me. You won't allow doubts and fears to turn into excuses that stop you from moving forward.
- You're willing to face and overcome challenges as you move from what you're doing now to a life that inspires you, fills you with enthusiasm, and allows you to stretch and grow. You face obstacles with the determination that you will succeed and overcome them, and you truly believe you can do it. You believe that with hard work, the right resources, tools, and support you can do it.
What does GIM have that traditional "talk" therapy doesn't?
Perhaps you have been involved in traditional talk therapy successfully for years but have recently found that you are feeling "stuck" or "blocked" in your progress. Many people find Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) gets to the heart of the problems they are dealing with more quickly. This music-centered approach works as a mind-body intervention to connect you with your own deepest wisdom as a means to develop greater self-awareness, wellness, and creativity in transforming personal, career, health, and relationship challenges. I am continually awed by the power of music to partner with you in achieving goals, developing greater confidence in your own inner resources, and making choices that result in a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
↑backDoes this technique work for everyone?
GIM is not recommended for people with serious mental disorders. It has the potential for uncovering deep emotional issues and unconscious material. This is not helpful for persons who are struggling to maintain balance and deal with the realities of everyday life.
↑backWhat to expect in a typical GIM session
In a GIM experience, one becomes a "traveler" in an inner journey with the GIM facilitator working as a guide to assist the process. Sessions generally last 1 to 1½ hours.
Preparation
Each session begins with a discussion of significant issues and concerns of the traveler. A focus or intention is agreed upon, and the guide chooses appropriate music for the session.
Once these preparations are complete, the traveler lies down and closes his or her eyes. The guide helps the traveler into a relaxed and focused state and then begins the music.
The Music Experience
The music evokes images, sensations, and feelings and the traveler and guide dialogue together about the unfolding "journey". The traveler spontaneously describes experiences stimulated by the music while the guide supports and encourages. The program of music selections usually lasts 30 - 40 minutes.
Closure and Integration
When the music ends, the guide helps the traveler gain closure and return to an alert state. The remainder of the session is spent reflecting on the traveler's images and experiences and, if appropriate, their relevance to life issues. Often, the art therapy technique of mandala drawing is used to bring the experience into greater clarity.
Does the guide tell me what images to see?
The imagery in GIM is not directed from a script and does not come from the guide. The imagery unfolds from the person experiencing the session in a spontaneous manner, stimulated and carried by the music and by skilled guiding. This process works easily, without having to think about or plan the imagery.
↑backWhat kinds of music will I hear?
GIM music is chosen from the great masterworks of composers such as Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart, Debussy, Vaughan Williams and many others. The selected music was researched by GIM founder, Dr. Helen Bonny and formulated into specific music programs. GIM facilitators are trained in the use of these programs and the methods necessary to create an optimal environment and assist travelers in their imagery journeys.
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