Frequently Asked Questions

Music therapy can address issues in the areas of communication, emotional/psychological well-being, physical and spiritual health, and cognitive and social functioning. Music Therapy is an effective treatment method for children and adults of all ages regardless of musical background or type of disability or impairment. It is client centered and goal oriented. Everything has meaning and purpose!

Music therapy is Beneficial for individuals dealing with:

• Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disabilities
• Developmental Delays
• Emotional Trauma and Abuse
• Learning Disabilities
• Dementia
• Grief
• Mental Health Concerns
• Pain Control
• Palliative Care
• Physical Disabilities
• Psychiatric Illnesses
• Speech and Language Impairments
• Visual and Hearing Impairments

Music Therapy provides a creative and meaningful way to address a variety needs including:

• Skill development
• Emotional expression and resolution
• Emotional and Behavioural regulation
• Personal affirmation, connectedness, expression and comfort
• Relaxation/stress reduction
• Structured exercise and movement
• Enhanced relationships and social skills
• Reinforced learning
• Auditory and sensory stimulation
• Improved focus and attention
• Encouragement for communication and self-expression
• Development of positive self-image

• It captivates and maintains attention as it stimulates and utilizes many parts of the brain.
• It is easily adapted to suit individual needs and can be reflective of a person’s abilities.It structures time in a way that we can understand.
• It provides a meaningful, enjoyable context for repetition and practice.
• It provides a social context. It sets up a safe, structured setting for verbal and nonverbal communication.
• It can be an effective memory aid.
• It supports and encourages movement.
• It is tied into many of our memories and emotions.
• It provides nonverbal, immediate feedback.
• It is success oriented. People of all ability levels can participate.

Music Therapy starts with an assessment period of 4 to 6 weeks when the therapist gathers relevant information regarding strengths, goals, interests, and suitability. This also gives each individual and/or their caregiver a chance to become familiar with the therapist, and to evaluate whether it is a good fit for them.

Once the assessment is completed and goals are established, an individualized treatment plan is put into place to address those goals. Goals and progress are continuously assessed and evaluated. Changes are made as needed with input and collaboration from the individual and/or their caregiver.

Once goals are achieved new goals can be established or services can be reduced or discontinued, depending on the needs of the individuals.

We offer small group, family, or individual sessions with individualized goals. We work in group home settings, school classrooms, Long Term Care and Retirement Facilities, Day Programs, and in client’s homes.

We encourage both active and passive involvement in activities such as Singing, Playing instruments, Creative and rhythmic movement, Improvisation, Composition, and Listening.