Emotional expression through spontaneous sound, song and shared listening.
Anyone can have music therapy whether "musical" or not. You don't have to be able to play an instrument in advance.
For some it's a means of dynamic non-verbal expression. It can also be a tool for self-regulating, using turn taking and musical dialogue. Others use it for waking up certain areas of the brain and creating new neural pathways. Those with sensory needs can benefit from the physical connection with instruments.
There's an invitation to choose any instrument in the room and play it. This may be in an improvised conversation or musical dialogue with the therapist, or the therapist may musically hold a client's sounds. There may be a structure of activities — creating bits of song together or re-creating and listening to a known song which resonates with a person. Alternatively it may be a shared experience of creating and responding to the flow of rhythms, melodies and silences which are naturally generated.
Over time, music therapy can potentially effect a person's cognitive, emotional and social functioning, enabling connection to self and other. It is used for well-being and generation of new neural pathways.
People have an initial assessment and then usually commit to six to eight sessions, weekly or alternate weeks. Some go on then to engage with longer term work.
I have worked with clients of varying ages with Autism, ADHD, PMLD and learning difficulties. I have also worked with those at various stages of Dementia and those processing trauma.
As an HCPC regulated music therapist, I design clinical interventions based on individual cognitive, sensory, and emotional requirements.
Providing a space where non-linear communication is celebrated. We use rhythmic templates and dynamic sound-matching to build mutual connection and regulatory calm.
Using known melodies and acoustic structures to activate memory networks, reduce agitation, and facilitate emotional connection with loved ones.
Offering a safe, non-verbal outlet to explore complex emotional states, rebuild sensory integration, and safely release stored physical tension.
Utilizing physical resonance from instruments (like xylophones, drums, or chimes) to create tactile feedback and communicative loops for profound learning needs.
The music therapy room contains a wide array of simple percussion, keyboards, strings, and wind instruments. No prior musical experience is required to use them.
We work with three main therapeutic modalities during our time:
There is no pressure to "perform" or make the instruments sound traditional. Any sound, silence, or sigh is valued and integrated into the session.
My practice follows professional standards to ensure safety, consistency, and developmental tracking.
A introductory consultation to understand clinical history, individual goals, and build early rapport.
We commit to a weekly block of therapy. Each session is structured around building connection and self-agency.
We evaluate progress against our goals, discuss changes, and determine if long-term support is beneficial.