Blue note
Expressive Music Therapy
&
Music Lessons
self-expression
self-esteem
being heard
feeling understood
making meaning
Making a difference with music
Music therapy aims to see the whole person, to listen and support, not to diagnose. The goals for therapy sessions are participant led. You are the expert in what you need, and what your family needs.
Have you ever struggled to find the words for what you feel? When we experience strong emotions like fear, shame and anger, we can loose access to language and communication. It is only when our nervous system identifies that there is no longer a threat, that our access to words and communication jumps back online.
We all benefit from approaches that don't rely soley on words to express ourselves. The creative arts involve kinesthetic methods, like making art and music. Creating with our hands, and using our visual and auditory senses, can support calming the nervous system, promoting a sense of safety. When we feel safe we free up communication and expression. Making meaning, telling and re-telling, processing and integrating experiences, takes place within the creative arts therapies.
music lessons
Was your first music lesson intimidating, was there pressure to perform, and not make any mistakes? That's why I believe in taking a gentle, self-esteem focus to learning an instrument. Learning should be fun but when our fear brain is switched on we are just trying to survive not thrive.
Lessons are available in guitar, ukulele, singing and songwriting. Start with one and explore what suits you and your child.
Did you always want to learn guitar and never had the chance? Why not learn with your child. Individual and family lessons available.
Music therapy
Music therapy involves first and foremost a therapeutic relationship, based on trust and unconditional positive regard. Therapy is about holding a space for people to be themselves, without fear of judgement.
A safe space for self-exploration and learning new skills. Promoting social and emotional development, agency, self-expression and esteem, communication skills, gross and fine motor skills and quality of life.
Anyone at any age can benefit from music therapy, and you don't need to be musical. Music therapy is a research based allied health service where music is used to support your health and well-being goals.
Resources
There is a resource page with links to free counselling services, continuing to be updated for good reads and health related information. Click on the link below.
What to expect in your first session
The first session is all about becoming familiar with a new space and a new person. We do not expect people to sing or play instruments right away. It can be a gradual approach, as confidence and curiosity grows. We spend the time exploring creative interests, music and instruments and the goals you would like to work towards.
What to look for when finding a music therapist
Look for a therapist who is registered.
A registered music therapist (RMT), is a Masters qualified therapist and is a member of a regulatory body like the Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA). Professional development hours are required every year to keep our qualifications current and their are professional codes of conduct. Being registered also means that we have the right insurance and working with childrens checks.
