Music Therapy is based on the fact that, in some way, everyone is attracted to and responds to music and sound. This is usually unaffected by disability, illness or injury. Music can often reach someone who is finding communication difficult. Music Therapy in the United Kingdom has a rich and long history. From the 1950’s it has grown and been acknowledged recently as having an equal standing with clinical psychology practice.

Music Therapy is provided at Bladon House School and Alderwasley Hall School. The Music Therapists use the unique qualities of music as the basis for building a relationship with the students. Recent evidence based research has shown that music therapy can increase vocal activity and attention, aid relaxation and social interaction, release tension and improve mood.

Students offered music therapy are not taught how to play an instrument, but are invited to engage in song and improvisation on instruments such as pianos, guitars, drums and other percussion instruments. Through music the qualified Music Therapist seeks to support and develop physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.

IS MUSIC THERAPY SAFE?

Music Therapy is a state registered profession. It is recognised and overseen by the Health Professionals Council. Every Music Therapist is legally required to pass a rigorous training and attend regular supervision with a qualified supervisor to ensure best practice.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN A SESSION?
A typical session will begin with an invitation to the student to engage in music and use a wide variety of instruments, anything from a piano or guitar to a range of tuned and untuned percussion instruments. Therapy can operate on an individual or small group basis as determined by the individual needs of the child or young person. Over a series of sessions the Therapist will begin to build a trusting relationship with the client through shared music and sounds often rather than with words.

Consistency is an important factor in any therapy process. The time, frequency and length of the session should be appropriate for the individual’s needs. It’s important for the therapy room to be undisturbed and quiet to enable a focus on the music and the relationship with students. In many settings additional support staff may accompany clients in therapy. The role of staff is primarily to ensure safety. It is usual to keep the presence of staff to a minimum.

Finally, music can change our mood, calm us, excite us, or make us want to dance! It can touch our feelings and in a unique way communicate without words. Music is intrinsic to human fulfilment and well-being.

To find out more about the benefits of music therapy please visit www.apmt.org