Hayes School of Music

Bonny Method Level I Training

The introductory training in the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music at Appalachian State University is taught as a 5-day, 45-hour intensive. During 2022, the intensive will be offered online.  This immersion in the Bonny Method offers experienced therapists an entryway into training in this method and provides advanced students in music therapy and mental health professions with an experiential taste of the power of music as an agent of change. Also included is training in relaxation inductions and supportive music and imagery. A minimum of one personal GIM session with a trained facilitator and a complete music program is pre-requisite to this training; additional sessions are recommended.

Through lectures, demonstrations, and supervised experiences as guide and traveler, this introductory level training will prepare participants to demonstrate emerging skills in:

• Facilitating relaxation inductions (CBMT Domain II.A.2.bd, II.A.5.j)
• Basic guiding interventions (CBMT Domain II.A.1.d)
• Basic verbal and nonverbal processing techniques (CBMT Domain II.A.1.b, II.A.5.h)

Participants also will demonstrate basic knowledge of:

• Receptive music methods (CBMT Domain II.A.5.b)
• Transpersonal aspects of GIM (CBMT Domains II.A.3.d, II.A.4.e)
• Clinical applications and contraindications (CBMT Domain D.4)

Following completion of the Level I training, the therapist may facilitate relaxation experiences or simple and structured music and imagery techniques (not GIM) with peers or with those groups or individuals in a clinical setting in which the therapist has experience and for whom such an intervention is indicated. Satisfactory completion of this training will meet the pre-requisite for GIM Level II training and may be used toward completion of requirements for becoming a Fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery.

Three hours of graduate academic credit (MUS 5060) are available through Appalachian State University. Students registering for academic credit will be required to complete follow up assignments. Those who have never attended Appalachian must apply for admission to the Graduate School and pay a non-refundable application fee.

This workshop is designed for music therapists and other mental health professionals. Advanced students also are welcomed.

See the Schedule and Costs for upcoming Bonny Method training sessions.

Please contact Dr. Cathy McKinney for more information.

Music Therapy at Appalachian State University

Learn more about Music Therapy programs in the Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University:

• B.M. in Music Therapy
• Master of Music Therapy
• Equivalency in Music Therapy