WHAT HAPPENS IN A MUSIC THERAPY SESSION?

In a session, it is the interactions between the therapist and the client that help to establish a therapeutic relationship. The exact nature of a session depends on the client's condition and/or personal needs, however, interactions can be encouraged through the following activities (they are just samples of what could happen) :

• improvisation - making up music spontaneously

• vocal Interactions: singing, talking

• learning to play an instrument

• songwriting

• listening to music

 

A session can range from 30 - 60 minutes. There will also be time prior to the session to set up and some time after to make notes.

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Before a period of therapy begins, at least two assessment sessions are carried out. They are for  assessing the suitability of therapy for both the client and the therapist and for planning a suitable therapy programme.  

 

A period of therapy sessions will be determined depending on the needs of the client and is subject to change. Feedback may also be given to the clients where appropriate. During this period, if it is ongoing, informal feedback may also be given to the client's parents, carer, or teachers. The therapist is able to attend meetings if a client is referred from an organisation, e.g. schools, day centres, hospitals. 

 

Written records after each session are kept for analysis and tracking the development of the client's condition. With the client's/carer's consent, audio or video records may also be kept. All information about the client is confidential and is only shared with the appropriate parties with the client's/carer's consent.