Services
Music Therapy
In Music Therapy, it is recognized that there is an innate responsiveness to music in all human beings. We all respond to rhythm, melody and harmony, regardless of physical or mental disability, injury or illness.
By using Music Therapy, relationships are strengthened and one is enabled to address psycho-social and emotional needs in a safe, confidential, and creative space.
Music Therapy is a non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical medium and is used in everyday environments to reach physical, emotional, cognitive, communicative, and social goals.
During a session, I strive to provide a safe, comfortable space where clients can debrief, problem-solve, learn, and be supported by using creative methods.
Therapeutic techniques employed include the following: Music listening, song writing, instrumental and vocal play, gentle movement, drawing, relaxation with music, Guided Imagery and Music, and verbal processing.
No musical skills or training is required for clients to benefit from Music Therapy.
Who can benefit from Music Therapy?
Music Therapists work with all ages, both as individuals and in groups, and clients do NOT need to have had previous musical experience or any learned musical skills to participate.
You can come for Music Therapy if/when:
- you want to explore personal growth and development
- if you want to explore creativity issues
- if you are an individual living with with Alzheimers or Dementia
- if you are an individual with autism, down syndrome, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, someone with developmental delays, and physical and/or intellectual disabilities
- if you are experiencing or want to explore attachment issues
- if you need cancer care and support
- when you are experiencing trauma
- when you are struggling with anxiety
- when you are living with depression
- when you are suffering from burnout
- when you need help with stress management
Guided imagery and music
The Helen Bonney Guided Imagery and Music method involves the client listening to a 30 – 45 minute program of therapeutically specifically chosen music while imaging to the music. The client is in a relaxed state, eyes closed, lying down whilst listening to the music. The therapist verbally guides the client during this part of the session by asking open ended questions like “What are you experiencing?”, “Where are you now?” etc. The session ends with a creative means of expression like mandala drawing or music making in order to have a concrete representation of the experience.
A Typical Guided Imagery and Music session lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Guided imagery for groups is adapted to meet the need of the group. The music listening process is conducted without guiding and the music program is significantly shorter.
I am currently training in the specialized approach of Helen Bonny’s Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) method. I am available for individual and group GIM sessions whilst receiving regular supervision from qualified GIM trainers.
Who can benefit from Guided Imagery and Music?
GIM is recommended for individuals who are:
- struggling with mental health problems (depression, anxiety, etc.)
- experiencing trauma due to loss
- struggling with addiction
- wants to work on unresolved emotional issues
- in need of discovering inner resources
- wants to work on their personal development and growth