What is music therapy?

Music therapy is a clinical, evidence-based profession that uses music to support people's health, wellbeing and development. It is delivered by a HCPC-registered music therapist who is trained to use music intentionally to help people achieve specific therapeutic goals.

Sessions are tailored to each individual and are designed to support communication, social interaction, emotional wellbeing, cognition, speech and language, movement and confidence, with the overall aim of improving quality of life.

You don't need any musical experience to benefit. The focus isn't on learning an instrument or performing well—it's about using music in a way that is therapeutic, meaningful and enjoyable for each individual.

Do I need to be musical?

No. You don't need any musical ability or experience to benefit from music therapy.

Music therapy isn't about learning an instrument, singing in tune or performing. It's about using music as a therapeutic tool to support your individual needs and goals.

My work is rooted in the Nordoff & Robbins approach to music therapy, which is based on the belief that every person has an innate capacity to respond to music. Whatever someone's age, abilities or challenges, music can provide opportunities for connection, communication and self-expression.

Sessions are tailored to each person, using music in ways that feel comfortable, meaningful and engaging. Some people are very active in making music, while others prefer quieter forms of engagement with music. There is no right or wrong way to take part.

What happens in a music therapy session?

Every music therapy session is tailored to the individual, so no two sessions are ever exactly the same.

Depending on the individual's needs and goals, sessions may include singing, playing instruments, improvising, listening to music, movement, songwriting or using music to support communication and interaction. Some people are very active in making music, while others prefer quieter forms of engagement with music.

The relationship between the therapist and the individual is central to the therapeutic process. Sessions are carefully adapted to support each person's strengths, interests and needs, creating opportunities for connection, communication, self-expression and positive change over time.

What's the difference between music therapy and music lessons?

Although both involve music, their purpose is very different.

Music lessons focus on developing musical skills, such as learning an instrument, reading music or improving performance. Music therapy uses music as a means to support health, wellbeing and development.

In music therapy, there is no expectation to perform or achieve a particular musical standard. Instead, music is used to support specific goals, which may include communication, emotional wellbeing, social interaction, cognition, speech and language, movement or quality of life.

What is Neurologic Music Therapy® (NMT®)?

Neurologic Music Therapy® (NMT®) is a science-based approach supported by extensive scientific research that uses the therapeutic elements of music to support rehabilitation and development following injury, illness or conditions affecting the brain and nervous system.

Using standardised, evidence-based techniques, NMT® can support movement, speech and language, and cognition. It is used with people of all ages with a wide range of neurological conditions, including stroke, brain injury, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy.

As a qualified Neurologic Music Therapist®, I can draw on both Creative Music Therapy and Neurologic Music Therapy® techniques, selecting the approach that best meets each individual's needs, strengths and goals.

How many music therapy sessions will I need?

There is no set number of music therapy sessions, as every individual has different needs and goals.

Some people benefit from short-term therapy focused on specific goals, while others attend over a longer period to support ongoing development, rehabilitation or wellbeing. Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure therapy continues to meet the individual's needs.

I will discuss recommendations with you and work together to decide what is most appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Where do music therapy sessions take place?

I offer music therapy in a variety of settings, depending on the individual's needs. Sessions can take place in schools, care homes, hospitals, community settings or in your own home.

If you're unsure what would work best, please get in touch and we can discuss the most suitable option.

Can family members or carers be involved?

Yes! Family members and carers are actively encouraged to attend music therapy sessions whenever it is helpful and appropriate.

Depending on the individual's needs and preferences, family members may choose to take part in sessions or observe, and will receive guidance on how music can continue to support communication, interaction and wellbeing between sessions. This is particularly important when using Neurologic Music Therapy® (NMT®), where practising techniques between sessions plays an important role in achieving specific goals.

Family members may also experience their loved one in a different way. They may see strengths, abilities or moments of connection that they hadn't expected, creating meaningful shared experiences and lasting memories.

Any involvement is always discussed and agreed in advance to ensure it is appropriate and in the best interests of the individual.

How do I get started?

The first step is to get in touch. I'd be happy to discuss your needs and answer any questions you may have.

We'll talk about the individual, what you're hoping to achieve, and whether music therapy is likely to be the right support. If appropriate, we'll then arrange an initial assessment and discuss the most suitable therapy programme together.

There is no obligation to proceed following your enquiry, so please feel free to get in touch if you'd simply like to find out more.