Perceptions of GIM therapists transitioning from in-person GIM sessions to online platforms during Covid-19 restriction

Abstract

In March 2020, when COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, therapists were required to make the transition from in-person, face-to-face sessions with clients to online telehealth sessions. The challenges for therapists practising The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music were particularly difficult. This study was conceived to understand how GIM therapists managed the transition and how they perceived the differences of in-person and online sessions. Seven therapists, all female, living and working in Australia completed in-depth interviews in June 2022 about each element of the session, and a thematic analysis identified grand themes and subordinate themes. Results show that there was a dislocation of physical, personal and therapy space online, with absent cues and missed opportunities for caregiving. Rapport was established online and the therapeutic process developed, but the components of the GIM session were not the same, and the transition for the therapist was challenging. Findings indicate that online GIM sessions may provide greater opportunity and immediacy for people to have therapy and experience GIM, but in-person GIM may provide greater safety and greater depth of experience. Limitations and future research recommendations are presented.