What is Music Therapy?
We provide music therapy for people with profound and multiple disabilities, learning difficulties or related needs.
People are normally referred to music therapy because they are finding it difficult to cope, or are withdrawn, or because they need additional help to reach their potential.
Why music?
The ability to appreciate and respond to music is an inborn quality in human beings. Music therapists use the power of music to make contact with different people to help them overcome their difficulties and to draw out their potential. Because many parts of the brain are used when someone is involved in making music, it can be used to achieve a variety of non-musical treatment aims, according to the needs of each individual.
How does it work?
In music therapy, spontaneous, interactive music making is used as a way of communicating. People are encouraged to experiment with accessible percussion instruments, and to use their voices. The music therapist establishes contact musically, by responding to and supporting their sounds.
What clients can achieve
A measure of success is when a person uses their new-found skills and confidence to relate better to other people, or is able to make fuller use of the opportunities available to them.
Communication:
- Progress, whether non-verbal or verbal;
- Learning to listen and be listened to;
- Gaining confidence to use one’s own abilities to the best effect in order to make rewarding relationships and friendships with others.
Social:
- Increasing awareness and tolerance of others;
- Learning how to relate positively to others in a group or individually;
- Opportunities to experience sharing, taking turns, being in charge, accepting leadership from others.
Emotional:
Developing a positive and creative means of expressing feeling that cannot be put into words. This work may particularly support people who have experienced bereavement, anxiety, abuse or people with emotional disturbance or challenging behaviour.
Explore our Music Therapy Services
For enquiries and referrals, contact Parity on 01252 375581 or info@parityfordisability.org.uk.