What is Music Therapy?

‘Music Therapy is an established psychological clinical intervention, delivered by HCPC registered Music Therapists to help people whose lives have been affected by injury, illness or disability through supporting their psychological, emotional, cognitive, physical, communicative and social needs.’ - British Association of Music Therapy (More Info)

In a Music Therapy session, the therapist encourages the client to explore using sound as a way of expressing themselves and sharing their inner world. This can be through playing freely improvised music or familiar songs. No previous music skill is required.

The therapist sensitively tunes into the client’s music, gestures and words to support their creative process through proving carefully chosen music responses. Over time, a musical relationship builds which can make a powerful impact on the client’s wellbeing. Specific therapeutic aims can be addressed without the use of words.

I believe Music therapy is remarkable as it can be used to support people of any age from newborn babies and their parents, until the very end of life. I feel that working through music can bypass obstacles that may impede the therapeutic process such as physical disability or the absence of language.