WHAT IS MUSIC THERAPY
Music has always been a powerful tool for expression and the capacity to touch our emotions deeply. Music therapy is based on the understanding that the ability to respond and experience oneself through music is an innate quality in human beings. This ability usually remains unimpaired by disability, injury or illness and is not dependent on musical training.
The therapists are closely involved in the overall development of each of their clients, helping them to achieve their full potential. In music therapy, the therapist and the child or adult improvise freely together and communicate with each other through the shared music. They gradually establish a musical relationship where emotions can be expressed, explored and worked through within a safe and confidential environment.
WHAT ARE THE AIMS OF MUSIC THERAPY
The aims of music therapy are therapeutic, rather than just musical. The overall aim of the therapist is to be closely involved with the development of each of their clients to help them to achieve their full potential. This can mean:
- Encouraging communication skills
- Helping the child or adult to relate to others and build rewarding relationships
- Developing a positive and creative means of expressing feelings that, for whatever reason, cannot be put into words
- Helping a child to grow towards milestones in child development such as babbling, experimenting with voice, developing communicative skills and the ability to play spontaneously and imaginatively
- Developing individuality, self-awareness, motivation, confidence, initiative, creativity and choice.
