Music Therapy
What is Music Therapy?
Music Therapy is based on the understanding that everyone is able to respond to music regardless of previous musical experience or musical ability. Music Therapy involves the use of sound, rhythm and improvised music in order to form a musical relationship between the child or young person and the therapist. Through working together in this way, the child/young person can respond in whatever way is possible for them, gaining confidence and developing a sense of self in relation to another person. Potential for change is assessed and goals and objectives based on the individuals needs and strengths are identified and worked towards. Within the context of a safe and creative environment, music therapy sessions offer a child/young person a different experience of shared play, interaction, learning and understanding, through verbal and non-verbal modes of communication.
Who is Music Therapy for?
Children and young people will often experience emotional challenges at different stages of their lives. Illness, communication difficulties or disability may be contributing factors. Traumatic experiences, change and bereavement can also impact on their emotional well-being. Music therapy can address specific areas of difficulty, but change is achieved through working with the whole person. Referrals are therefore made through looking at the child/young person’s whole profile of emotional needs and not simply based on a medical diagnosis, such as Autistic spectrum Disorder, Cerebral palsy or a learning disability.
The following websites offer more information on music therapy:
Music Therapy at Nexus
Music therapy at Nexus is led by Lib Sackville West. Lib is an experienced music therapist having practised for over twenty years. Lib trained and worked at Nordoff-Robbins and has worked with children in both special and mainstream schools. Before training as a music therapist Lib worked as a teacher for over 10 years in special schools. She is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and a member of the British association of Music Therapists.
If you would like more information about music therapy please discuss it with your child’s class teacher.
