Mental Health & Well-being:
It can support clients to reduce anxiety and stress, regulate mood and energy levels, and develop healthy coping strategies. It can also support the management of anger, frustration, and challenging behaviours.

Speech, Communication & Social Skills:
It enhances both verbal and non-verbal communication, improves physical speech function, and increases social interaction and independence. 

Physical Function & Coordination:
Music therapy improves both gross and fine motor skills, enhances balance, and fosters physical independence. It also helps regulate heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure, while strengthening respiratory muscles and improving sleep quality.

Cognitive Function & Memory:
Music therapy can improve executive functions, including self-awareness, planning, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. It also boosts memory, attention, and focus.

Pain Management:
Through the activation of the brain’s natural painkillers, music therapy helps reduce pain perception and supports recovery from medical procedures.

Music therapy can look different for everyone, as sessions are tailored to the individual’s specific needs, goals, and preferences. Typically, sessions can involve the following elements:

1. Assessment and Goal Setting: The therapist will begin by assessing the individual’s physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. Based on this assessment, specific therapeutic goals are developed in collaboration with the individual or their caregivers.
2. Active Music Making: Sessions often include active music-making, such as playing instruments, singing, or engaging in rhythm-based activities. This allows the individual to express themselves and engage with music in a therapeutic way.
3. Listening to Music: Depending on the individual's needs, the therapist may incorporate listening to pre-recorded or live music. This can be done to promote relaxation, emotional expression, or cognitive engagement.
4. Improvised Music and Music Interaction: In some cases, improvisation plays a central role, where both the therapist and individual create music spontaneously. This can facilitate emotional release, communication, and self-expression.
5. Verbal Reflection and Discussion: After engaging with music, the therapist may guide a reflective conversation. This allows the individual to explore their thoughts and feelings, enhancing emotional insight and self-awareness.
6. Movement and Relaxation: Some sessions incorporate movement, such as dancing or guided relaxation exercises, to help manage physical tension and promote relaxation.
7. Songwriting: Songwriting is a powerful tool in music therapy, where individuals may compose original songs to express emotions, tell personal stories, or explore their thoughts. This creative process can help with emotional expression, cognitive processing, and self-discovery.