Music Therapists

Look under this Yellow Pages® heading for information on music therapists. Music therapy is a registered allied health profession practised not only throughout Australia but also in more than 40 countries around the world. Music therapy is different from musical education and entertainment. Music therapy is a planned and creative use of music to attain and maintain health and well-being, and may address physical, psychological, emotional, cognitive and social needs of individuals within a therapeutic relationship.

Traditionally working in special schools, nursing homes, and care facilities for rehabilitation or psychiatry, music therapists also provide services for palliative care, adults and children in hospitals, early intervention (families which include pre-school children with additional needs), adult mental health, and rehabilitation (including people who have been in motor vehicle accidents). Music therapy can benefit children, adolescents, and adults who have learning, intellectual or physical difficulties, and emotional or health related issues. Music therapy can provide a vehicle for effective communication for those who have no verbal language. Music therapy can address specific rehabilitation needs. It offers opportunities for communication and vitality in life. During therapy sessions the client and therapist engage in a musical “dialogue” through the use of a variety of musical instruments. There are even group music therapy which can build on personal strengths, interests and community participation, thus providing a wonderful outlet for creativity and improvisation.

Music therapy has positive effects on individuals who suffer from conditions such as Autism, Asperger’s syndrome, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), developmental delays, sensory impairment, cerebral palsy, and acquired brain injury. They can help individuals with low self-esteem, eating disorders, cognitive development, and impaired social skills.