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Dr. Helen L. Bonny.

The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (BMGIM)

General Description
The Bonny Method of GIM is a music-centered form of psychotherapy and exploration of consciousness. It offers individuals the opportunity to integrate mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of wellbeing.

Inspired by a mystical experience while playing the violin, Helen L. Bonny, Ph.D., was called to bring the healing power of music to others. In the early 1970's, she applied her understanding of music at the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, where she combined relaxation techniques and classical music to provide spiritual and therapeutic support to patients who were suffering from terminal illness or addictions. Afterwards she continued her research and developed the Bonny Method.

The method evokes imagery in response to listening in a relaxed state to programs of classical music. During a session guided by a trained facilitator, symbols, memories, body sensations, and emotions spontaneously arise. Specially sequenced classical music programs are used to stimulate and sustain a dynamic unfolding of inner experiences. The carefully selected music serves as a catalyst to encourage verbalizations, movements, and insights, which lead to healing and change. These inner musical journeys often enhance self-understanding, promoting therapeutic goals and spiritual transformation.

GIM is practiced primarily in psychotherapy and counseling. Individual sessions are conducted by facilitators who have backgrounds in the helping professions and who are formally trained in the Bonny Method.

The Benefits of GIM

  • GIM attracts those who are motivated to explore the inner self and the possibilities of conscious awareness.
  • GIM meets people in whatever their present state might be and leads them naturally towards personal growth, spiritual unfolding, and enhanced creativity.
  • GIM can inspire musicians who wish to deepen their connection to the healing and mystical dimensions of music.
  • GIM can creatively enrich the clinical practice of psychotherapists.
  • GIM is a successful psychotherapeutic approach used with a variety of clinical conditions: substance abuse, psychiatric disorders, terminal illness, situational depression, multiple personality, and consequences of sexual or emotional abuse.






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