We reached out to our
Music Therapist Isabella
to tell us more.
How do the typical Music Therapy sessions work?
Music Therapy programs always start with an initial assessment to not only assess where a client is at and form their goals, but to also establish a rapport between client and therapist. A good therapeutic relationship is key to providing high quality care through music. Typical sessions involve different forms of music-making depending on the client’s goals and personal likes. Some of these activities include songwriting, singing, drumming, dancing, playing instruments and learning new ones.
Who is Music Therapy suitable for?
What are the benefits that some of your clients have seen?
Some of my clients with Autism have had difficulty in groups at school, either expressing anxiety or being unaware of social cues like turn-taking. We’ve worked on developing social skills through songs and games, and this musical play has helped those clients be more aware in social situations. For those that can feel anxious, Music Therapy has helped them feel more confident and independent in social situations.
What if we’ve never played an instrument before? Can we benefit?
Absolutely! You don’t need to have any prior musical knowledge to benefit from Music Therapy. A Music Therapist’s job is to use music as a tool to help a client reach their goals, so they’ll guide you through the music activities and therapeutic interventions.
Does the current COVID climate increase the importance of ongoing music therapy sessions?
I think the current COVID climate definitely increases the importance of ongoing Music Therapy. Music Therapy allows a client to work towards improving health, functioning, and wellbeing through a powerful tool such as music. The added benefits of socialising through music and continued therapeutic support only adds to the importance of regular therapy.
– Isabella Polines, Music Therapist
