What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is similar to many forms of therapy, particularly psychotherapy, in that it is based around the development of a relationship between therapist and client. The music provides an alternative mode of communication, which is often more accessible than words for some people. Through exploring the instruments and expressing themselves creatively within improvised musical interactions, clients can develop their communication skills, explore important personal themes and gain insight into their patterns of behaving.
Where?
A Music Therapy service usually takes place in a separate room, containing a piano, guitar and a range of tuned and non-tuned percussion instruments.
With Whom?
Music Therapy can be effective for many different people, and is not dependent upon the client having had any previous musical training or experience. Music Therapists work with groups and individuals, depending on referrals and the size of room available. Client-groups who have benefited from Music Therapy include children and adults with learning disabilities, autism, communication disorders, and challenging behaviour, elderly people with dementia or neurological conditions, people who have suffered trauma and abuse, and people with depression and mental health problems.
