Are you looking for an alternative therapy for your child so that he can gain skills in more than one area? Have you heard about Music Therapy?
Numerous research articles show a positive impact on individuals with cognitive impairments or delays that include improved split/joint attention, an increase in communication, enhanced sensory-motor processing, healthier social interactions, improved fine and gross motor skills just to name a few.
Music Therapy (MT)
MT is the use of musical interventions to promote progress towards non-musical goals. A music therapist has attended an approved 4-year university or institution and has completed a 1,200 hour internship under the supervision of trained music therapists accompanied by research. Upon completion of the requirements including passing a board examination, a music therapist earns the credential MT-BC, or Music Therapist- Board Certified. This is a national certification that allows the practitioner to practice music therapy nationwide and requires continuing education for recertification every 5 years.
Who should attend Music Therapy?
Anyone and Everyone ~ particularly children with delays in development! Here at Aaris, we specifically work with children and teens with diverse abilities. Participants do not need to have a musical background in order to gain skills. Any and all skill levels are welcome! Some of our students in music therapy are working on:
- listening/ following directions
- attending to tasks
- expanding verbal expression
- using alternative communication to express themselves
- incorporating both hands to complete tasks
- understanding their own thoughts and feelings as well as those of others
- learning and practicing coping skills when feeling anxious
- and so much more!
Based on our experience, we have seen MT be successful with students with autism, down syndrome, ADD, and ADHD to further their skills in all areas of development!
What does a session look like?
Sessions will vary depending on the needs of the child such as whether the session is play based or more structured. Therapy will focus on expanding and improving skills across 4 domains: physical, emotional, cognitive, and communication. Intervention techniques may include singing, movement, active music making with instruments, relaxation techniques, musical games, and social cognitive games just to name a few.
Please contact us at scheduling@aaristherapy.com for more information about enrolling your child in music therapy.