On completion of the training programme, trainees will be able to use GIM in all aspects as a psychotherapeutic tool in the clinical practice. They should be able to identify, understand, and apply all basic concepts and principles of the whole spectrum of GIM (and MI) methods. They will gain knowledge of 20 core and modern GIM programmes, they will develop skills in setting goals, evaluate appropriateness and progress in GIM process, develop an understanding of ethical issues while working with alternative states of consciousness, and acknowledge current research in the field. Experientials, case study presentations, peer supervisions, group discussions, and professional consultations are core elements of the training outline alongside with theoretical teaching material.

Introduction to Bonny method of GIM

Full musical analysis of GIM programs, introduction to mandalas, Gim theory I

GIM theory II and major clinical contexts

Final presentations and wrap-up

The course is divided in 4 seminars, each 3 to 4 days long. Seminars usually run every 4-6 months at dates agreed between trainers and group members. In between seminars, trainees are required to fulfill personal GIM sessions, practice sessions and supervisions, and other coursework requirements.

Seminar 1: Introduction to Bonny method of GIM

• History and basic principles of GIM

• Demo session

• The spectrum of GIM and MI practices

• Applications of GIM in clinical context

• Basic GIM session structure

• Setting up –initial interview, screening, and session process

• GIM core skills: types of inductions and relaxations/appropriate uses, guiding interventions

• Contraindications and Ethics

• ASC and imagery components

• Presentation of music programmes

• Experiential dyads (Group consultation

Seminar 2: Full musical analysis of GIM programs, introduction to mandalas, Gim theory I

• Further elaboration of music analysis (Grocke’s SMMA analysis, Bruscia’s 4-step analysis)

• Introduction to basic mandala analysis

• Experiential exercises in pairs (mandala analysis and traveling to music)

• Musical consciousness

• Supportive, re-educative, and reconstructive levels of working

• Psychodynamic theories in GIM

• Group consultation

Seminar 3: GIM theory II and major clinical contexts

• Trauma work in GIM

• Clinical scenarios

• Theories of consciousness

• Experientials related to these fields

• Music analysis presentations on new programs

• Symbolism and archetypal in GIM

• Basic theories of transpersonal and spiritual in GIM

• Case material presentation from trainees on related fields-peer supervision

• Group consultation

Seminar 4: Final presentations and wrap-up

• Creative musical analysis group presentations

• Research in GIM

• Practical issues in various professional settings, referrals, etc.

• Case material presentation from trainees

• Presentation of final projects

• Group supervision

• Attendance of 4 training seminars.

• 16 individual GIM sessions: A minimum of 10 with a qualified GIM practitioner (FAMI or EAMI accred.), or an advanced trainee (upon trainer’s discretion).

• Clinical practice: 50 GIM sessions (minimum)

• 12 supervisions: 8 must be on-site or recorded, and 4 in other forms (e.g. transcript, re-imaging, etc).  Each of the on-site/recorded supervisions are usually 2-2,5 hours long. Some supervisions based on reading of 2-3 transcripts are also considered long (including supervisor’s reading time and preparation for the supervision).

• Two supervision reports to summarise learnings after a set of 5-6 supervisions. Alternatively, one short report for each supervision separately. It is recommended to receive one supervision every (approximately) 5 practicing sessions and complete at least one supervision between training seminars.

• A minimum of 4, 50- min long consultations (advice on non-clinical material: professional issues, advise on final projects, ethics, etc.).

• One music analysis of a full GIM music programme according to 4-step analysis model and one creative analysis (Bruscia’s analysis and creative analysis as group projects and Bonny’s analysis for one individual presentation)

• 1 case study from a series of 10 GIM sessions (5000-10000 words)

• A reading list of relevant GIM literature corresponding to a total of approx. 1700 pages

• Final project: a paper of the trainee’s interest. Could be theoretical, clinical, research or the development of new GIM music program (Length 2000-5000 words).

*Personal sessions, supervisions, and consultation are at the trainees’ expense.

The programme is suitable for mental health professionals who have successfully completed the MusiCares programme (Basic and Advanced). The programme is suitable for all professionals in the fields of mental health, anxiety disorders and psychological trauma, well-being, self-development, and creativity settings.

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in Humanities as a minimum requirement, with psychotherapeutic training and experience in one-to-one therapy, as well as life experience. A musical background is not essential, but an affinity for music is desirable. Exceptions can be made at the discretion of the trainer, especially for applicants who show good life experience and potential, if they commit to receiving further studies in psychotherapy or mental health counseling.

Successful completion of all coursework within a maximum of 3 years after the final seminar. Participants who fail to meet this requirement will be asked to repeat the course. All coursework will be documented in special logs and forms provided in the seminars

Upon completion of all requirements, the trainees receive a certificate of completion of this level of training and can apply to the European Association for Music and Imagery to become EAMI accredited therapist in the Guided Imagery & Music (GIM) Method.

When the dates for the next course become available, Interested candidates can apply online through the Sonora website. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and selected candidates may be invited for an interview or step ahead in the training course.