A music therapist uses voice and clinical improvisation to make a connection with a person. Improvised music-making is an evolving process with each person and can be adaptive in the moment and with each individual. Within this music therapy relationship the therapist can respond to, acknowledge and contain the emotional states of each individual. Music therapy sessions are with the same therapist each week and take place on a regular, weekly basis. The room is set up with a piano, guitar and a selection of smaller instruments. A session can involve interactive improvisation, structured activities, composing, singing, storytelling, talking and creative play.
Music therapy sessions for children
Individual or group music therapy sessions for mothers and babies, children and teenagers are offered in the following settings:
- Children centres
- Clinics
- Privately/home
- Schools: Primary and secondary. Mainstream, special schools.
- Home visits depending on needs, availability and situation.
Sessions usually last for thirty minutes for children. Fees are according to the BAMT rates and level of experience.
Music therapy sessions for adults
Individual or group sessions for adults are offered in clinics or privately depending on needs and situation.
Sessions usually last for 45 minutes – 1 hour and fees are in line with level of experience and according to BAMT (British Association of Music Therapist) rates.
Sessions for adults usually involve talking in some part of the session and then exploring musical play on a variety of instruments. No musical skill is required.
Adults who may benefit may have experienced:
- Depression, including post-natal depression
- Trauma
- Anxiety
- Relationship difficulties
- Communication disorders
- Bereavement
- Fertility issues/miscarriage
- Low self-esteem
Please read below a past adult client’s statement of her experience of music therapy:
‘Music therapy made me whole again. I was suffering from a depression and had benefitted from cognitive behavioural therapy for a year when my therapist suggested I try music therapy. I am so glad she did because music therapy really clicked with me. While the CBT gave me the tools to understand and get to grips with what I was feeling and why I felt the way I felt on a rational level, music therapy really allowed me to feel what I was feeling – and work through those feelings to become whole again…. Words can be so limited and restrictive, while (the vibration of) music is a most direct form of expression, of being, of communicating.
…Through music I found a part of me that had gotten lost, yet is so vital to me. Through music I got to be all I am – past and present, and future. Music therapy helped me be whole again and I am so, so grateful for that.