Music Therapy
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a psychological therapy, which uses both spontaneous or pre-created sounds and music to communicate either one to one or in a group. There are no educational goals as the work is therapeutic and does not involve teaching the client how to sing or play an instrument. Music has always been a powerful tool for expression playing an intrinsic part to our daily lives. It can touch our emotions deeply and allows for a freedom of communication without words.
In music therapy the therapist and client are likely to improvise freely together and there may be some structured elements such as the use of song and activities. Over time a therapeutic relationship develops in which emotions can be expressed, explored and worked through within a safe, non judgemental and confidential environment. The relationship between therapist and client can be compared to that of a mother and baby in the way that non-verbal communication is used. The musical interactions may sometimes not sound like music as the the sounds created are spontaneous and expressive of how the person is feeling in the moment. The music therapist works in a variety of settings including care homes, schools, hospices, hospitals and neurological rehabilitation centres. Sessions can also take place in the home of a client if appropriate.
Who benefits from Music Therapy?
Clients receiving Music Therapy differ greatly with a wide variety of ages and conditions present from birth or developed later in life. Here is a non exhaustive list of area's where it is currently being used:
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Dementia
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Children/teenagers with a broad range of profound and multiple learning difficulties
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ASC (Autistic spectrum condition)
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Mental Health
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Palliative Care
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Adoption Services
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Neurodisability
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Learning Difficulties & Disabilities
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Hospice settings
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Neonatal settings
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Bereavement and loss
How to arrange sessions?
Clients are often assessed before treatment is offered over 3 sessions. Individual sessions last 30-40 minutes and group sessions 40-50 minutes. Please email Inner Pulse for further information. Referrals can be made by carers, parents or professionals including GP's and teachers.
Sessions can take place both in person and online depending on the needs of the individual.
Jacqueline is a member of the HCPC and has completed safeguarding level 3 training for both Adults and Children. She holds a current DBS certificate.