In the simplest of definitions, Music Therapy is using music to reach non-musical goals.
Elements of music are used to address each client's individual needs. These elements include rhythm, melody, harmony, form, lyrics, timbre, dynamics, and tempo. While this may sound like jargon, what it essentially means is: music is able to be as unique as the client utilizing it.
As an evidence-based field, Music Therapy has successfully been used to support individuals in various ways. It's scientific fact! Some of the following are diagnoses, conditions, and other areas Music Therapy has been proven effective in addressing or reducing symtoms :
Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders, alzheimers disease, dementia, terminal diagnoses, chronic health conditions, rehabilitation after stroke, cognitive delays, learning disabilities, traumatic brain injury (TBI), neuromusclar disorders, speech disorders, PTSD, trauma, attachment disorders, domestic violence, processing difficult life events, behavioral concerns, outbursts, dysregulation, and more.
At Interluding Opus Music Therapy, LLC, Rachel specializes in working with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, attachment disorders, LGBTQ+, and trauma. See more.
Before beginning treatment, Interluding Opus Child and Family Music Therapy Services, LLC will have a 20 minute consultation with you or your legal guardian over the phone. If Music Therapy seems like it would be a good fit, the next step will be to complete an Intake Assessment and schedule a meeting with Rachel.
Music Therapy may be a good fit for some if the following is true: music is already enjoyed by a person, prior music knowledge exists (from singing, playing an instrument), a person enjoys singing or playing an instrument for fun, or someone is described as 'musical person.'
This is a discussion that is encouraged to occur with the Music Therapist - it may not be the modality that doesn't feel right! Perhaps percussion instruments aren't a great fit. Or maybe another intervention style feels more genuine. Each person is different! Together, a Client and Music Therapist can make a choice that feels authentic and supportive for all involved.
Once Music Therapy treatment has started, if it appears that the modality is not a good fit, a referral will be made to another type of clinician (LPC, LCSW, RPT, ATR, etc) with individual goals and needs in mind.
While Music Therapy sessions may feel like simple instrument play, there is a lot more happening. Music Therapy is the modality a therapist uses - much like art or play are the modalities used by Registered Play Therapists and Art Therapists. Music is an expressive therapy; meaning, through the use of an expressed intervention (like making or listening to music) a need is addressed. If you'd like more in-depth detail, please look at the 'Why Music Therapy?' tab.
Instrument play can be a part of Music Therapy treatment - but it doesn't have to be! There are a lot of ways to support folx in session. Some other things we do in session that don't have to include active music making (aka, instrument play) are lyric analysis, songwriting, relaxation, mindfulness...the list goes on. Music Therapists know that sometimes people enjoy music without playing instruments each session!
Every Music Therapy session is different because each client is different. A typical session may include instrument play with drums, guitar, or keyboard. Shakers, guiros, and a variety of noise makers are also available. Books, visual aids, soft toys, sand play, song lyrics, song writing, GarageBand, and other play items may also be used. A client's preferred style of music is incorporated into each session.
Sessions will take place in a private office. Clients are invited to be comfortable and welcome to sit or move in ways that feels best for them.
Interluding Opus Child and Family Music Therapy Services, LLC does not accept insurance. We currently engage in Sliding Scale fees. Please see the 'Insurance/Fees' tab for additional information.