by Kobie Temmingh-Swart
The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, or “GIM” as it is generally known, is a powerful music-centered form of therapy that has grown substantially throughout the world, which is a testament to the method’s validity and therapeutic potential. In a nutshell, GIM involves listening to carefully selected music while in a deeper state of mind, offering access to deeper layers of insight, intuition, memories, urges etc. The music fits the client’s therapeutic intention and can be described as a soundtrack to the client’s inner movie. Symbolic and metaphoric imagery usually emerges, where important imagery is typically accompanied by intense emotions. GIM offer opportunities for healing, growth and transformation. Mandala drawings are often used to process the experience in a client-centered manner. For more information about the method and training, please see www.sa-gim.co.za
Currently, GIM is practiced in the following 34 countries:
Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada (7 provinces), China, Colombia, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, USA (25 states).
GIM Training is offered in the following 9 countries:
Australia Canada Denmark Germany India South Africa Sweden United Kingdom USA
In 2022 GIM Training South Africa involved:
A group of 9 participants, including four music therapists, an art therapist, a drama therapist, and three psychologists completed GIM Level 3 module 2 (Myth, archetype, and symbol) 18-21 Feb. in Cape Town, in-person.
The same group completed GIM Level 3 module 3 (Transpersonal GIM) 27 to 30 May 2022 in Jhb,. with two people joining online from Cape Town.
Trainers:
Kobie Temmingh Swart, music therapist (HPCSA), AMI-endorsed GIM Trainer and Fellow (AMI), and
Anelle Naude-Lester, psychologist (HPCSA), GIM Fellow (AMI: Association for Music and Imagery, USA)
NB Please note:
In 2023 a new GIM group will commence with GIM Level 1 training 24 to 27 March, in-person in Jhb. This cpd accredited training (24 cpd’s) is offered to mental health practitioners registered with the HPCSA.
Please contact Kobie Swart for more information or if you are interested in joining.
Cell 0836564737
