Louise Dimiceli-Mitran, MT-BC, FAMI - mailto:louise@mitran.com - 312-409-4858 - Chicago
I have experience working with patients challenged by stress, depression, creative blocks, anxiety, multiple sclerosis, cancer (particularly those receiving chemotherapy), chemical dependency, loss, legal blindness, HIV, hospice needs and those interested in personal growth. I also enjoy working an as adjunct to add the transformative power of music and working creatively (which is really accessing the whole person) to therapy already underway. Those who are actively creative or love the arts often welcome the chance to work with that part of themselves, but people who are creatively blocked or unable to connect with their inner life are also responsive to creative methods. The arts offer non-verbal access to a person's spirituality and can aid in expressing feelings and thoughts that were previously inaccessible to them. Vocal/toning/singing work can assist people in finding their own voice. Brief descriptions of music therapy techniques are below, but understand that specialized therapeutic experiences are created with each client according to their needs and goals. Adaptation is the working concept here.
I am encouraging those interested in understanding Guided Imagery and Music to come in and have a session; explaining it falls far short of the actual experience which can be very powerful in a creative, individual way. If you'd like a session, want to refer someone, or would just like to get together at a time other than the open house, please call or Email. My office phone is 312-409-4858. If you would like brochures or cards, I'll send them along.
More about Large Group Drumming and other services... http://www.mitran.com
Guided Imagery and Music (The Bonny Method), uses classical music programs to bring up images from the deeper conscious self. After a guided relaxation and imagery focus, classical music elicits images (visual pictures, emotions, memories, colors or physical sensations) that are shared with the guide while they're being experienced. The understanding that comes from new insights and personal symbology can stimulate a deep and rich unfolding of self. Because the images come from the creative imagination, this is a completely client-centered therapy that is richly fed by one's own unique life experience. Many clients come in for "tune-ups" every month or so; one local hospital sends its music therapy interns for a series of GIM sessions during their internships.
Improvisation work involves choosing from a wide selection of rhythmic instruments and producing sounds to represent feelings, situations or relationships with others or one's self. This brings non-verbal expressions to the body and to consciousness in concrete ways that expand self-knowledge.
Mandala drawing, an ancient method of meditation, journaling and self-expression, is often used after a GIM session to bring images to a more concrete level of understanding. The circle is used as a focus and palette for non-verbal expression. The MARI Card Test is used as an assessment and to deepen one's self-knowledge.