From goose tornadoes to ballet dancers: Insights and reflections of two experiences of a GIM session
Tracks
Stream 1
| Friday, September 6, 2024 |
| 2:06 PM - 2:13 PM |
| Room 1 |
Speaker
Miss Emily McDonald
Student
Student
From goose tornadoes to ballet dancers: Insights and reflections of two experiences of a GIM session
Biography
Emily is in her 2nd year of studying a Master of Creative Music Therapy at Western Sydney University. Previously she completed a Bachelor of Music, Certificate 4 in Mental Health and a Diploma of Counselling. Emily love's exploring creative expressions as a means to gain insight into her own emotions and experiences, as well as to understand the world around her. She can’t wait to work with people through Music Therapy.
Mx Andi Gambrill
Student
Western Sydney University
From Goose Tornadoes to Ballet Dancers: Insights and Reflections of Two Experiences of a GIM Session
Abstract Overview
Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) is an evidence-based music therapy specialty area, blending classical music with psychotherapy, to invite individual or group participants on a vividly creative journey of inner experience and transformation. Integral to GIM training and accreditation is undergoing multiple GIM experiences. This presentation details the reflections and insights of two Masters level Music Therapy students after receiving their first taste of GIM in single individual 30 minute sessions.
Through witnessing and experiencing the combination of mindfully curated playlists with verbal therapy and relaxation techniques, both students hoped to gain an embodied understanding of the GIM approach. The sessions took place in a small and welcoming room in a music therapy centre where GIM research was taking place. The room was filled with fluffy cushions, blankets, moody lamps and an oversized bean bag mat. With curiosity, open hearts and zero expectations, the two presenters embarked on GIM journeys that would leave them each unexpectedly gobsmacked, moved and refreshed!
Present One’s ‘French mountain air’-inspired orchestral number facilitated the redemptive journey of a lonely goose who finally found its tornado tribe, whilst the presenter Two’s playful guitar concerto gave rise to a beautiful group of ballet dancers on the beach. From tears and hysterical laughter through to the uncovering of a deep sense of peace and self-knowing, both students left their sessions with a new appreciation and curiosity for GIM.
The rich and multi-layered character of classical music, paired with the ‘music therapist as guide’ evokes a dream-like state where spontaneous imagery ensues. As a unique receptive form of music therapy, GIM holds much potential for growth in the field, which students can utilise for personal growth and supervision to enhance their future practice.
Through witnessing and experiencing the combination of mindfully curated playlists with verbal therapy and relaxation techniques, both students hoped to gain an embodied understanding of the GIM approach. The sessions took place in a small and welcoming room in a music therapy centre where GIM research was taking place. The room was filled with fluffy cushions, blankets, moody lamps and an oversized bean bag mat. With curiosity, open hearts and zero expectations, the two presenters embarked on GIM journeys that would leave them each unexpectedly gobsmacked, moved and refreshed!
Present One’s ‘French mountain air’-inspired orchestral number facilitated the redemptive journey of a lonely goose who finally found its tornado tribe, whilst the presenter Two’s playful guitar concerto gave rise to a beautiful group of ballet dancers on the beach. From tears and hysterical laughter through to the uncovering of a deep sense of peace and self-knowing, both students left their sessions with a new appreciation and curiosity for GIM.
The rich and multi-layered character of classical music, paired with the ‘music therapist as guide’ evokes a dream-like state where spontaneous imagery ensues. As a unique receptive form of music therapy, GIM holds much potential for growth in the field, which students can utilise for personal growth and supervision to enhance their future practice.
Biography
Andi is in their 2nd year of studying a Master of Creative Music Therapy at Western Sydney University. After graduating from a Bachelor of Communication over 10 years ago, Andi is excited to be shifting gears from a corporate, cabaret and Drag performer life, to become a Music Therapist. Andi is passionate about self-development and helping people connect with their unique creative identities.
