Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program. (American Music Therapy Association definition, 2005)

Since music therapy sessions are tailored to the preferences, needs, and goals of the individual, each session will look different. However, there are some general things music therapy sessions have in common. Musical interventions are designed to meet pre-determined goals and objectives and immediate needs through singing, moving to music, songwriting, instrument playing (largely percussion instruments but could be something else such as piano), lyric analysis, using manipulatives, etc. What appears to be fun music activities are actually specified techniques carried out to enhance social, emotional, communication, cognitive, and motor functioning. The interaction between the client and the music therapist is key. Music Therapy is an enjoyable and effective way to work on things that might otherwise seem very difficult or mundane.

The purpose of the assessment session is to see where the client is at in the areas of communication, social, emotional, cognitive, and motor functioning. This typically looks much like a normal music therapy session, but the focus is on assessing the client’s abilities and needs instead of working on specific goals. Non-musical assessments are sometimes administered to get a baseline functioning level. The music therapist will also consult with the parent/caregiver if applicable, and study the information given in the intake form. After the assessment session and 1 or 2 regular sessions, the music therapist will provide an assessment report and treatment plan. This will show assessment findings, the functional goals and objectives that are going to be focused on, and what types of music therapy techniques are going to be used. Weekly documentation is done to track progress and a progress report will be sent out periodically to communicate progress and any changes in the treatment plan.

Please make every effort to make it to your sessions and to be on time so that your child can get the most benefit from their music therapy experience. Consistency is key!

If at least 24-hour notice is provided, absences will be excused, and a make-up session will be scheduled, if possible. If a session is cancelled 3 hours or less before the scheduled appointment or there is a no-show, full payment will be expected, and no make-up will be given. I will take EMERGENCIES into consideration, if I am notified of between 3 and 24 hours. Excessive absences may be subject to possible dismissal.

If you are late to your session, the price will remain the same and you will get whatever time you have left in your regular scheduled time.

Forms of payment include credit/debit card. You can also pay by cash or check upon request. You will be sent an invoice at the end of each month stating the session dates and how much you owe. The invoice is through QuickBooks and you can set up payment information when you get the first invoice. After that, there will be a place you can click to make a payment. Optional payment methods can be discussed individually.

We do not accept DDD but we do accept the ESA debit card. My certificate is on file with ESA but I can send you a copy if they want one from you. We don’t take insurance at this time but are happy to help you fill out the forms with the proper codes if you think this is something your insurance company will cover.