Frequently Asked Questions

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)

Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) is defined as the therapeutic application of music to cognitive, sensory, and motor dysfunctions due to neurologic disease of the human nervous system. NMT is based on a neuroscience model of music perception and production, and the influence of music on function changes in nonmusical brain and behavior functions. (The Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy)

A neurologic music therapist creates an individualized interactive experience, using standardized techniques to achieve non-musical goals such as speech, physical movement, cognition and other functional abilities. The therapist focuses on the music as therapy, emphasizing specific elements of music in the construction of their therapeutic, research-based exercises, in order to optimize function and/or reroute neuropathways to achieve functionality.

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.

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 things such as:

• Singing
• Moving to music
• Songwriting
• Instrument playing (largely percussion instruments but could be something else such as piano)
• Lyric analysis
• Using manipulatives

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.

• 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 between 3 and 24 hours.
• Excessive absences may be subject to a fee or possible dismissal.
• If you know you are going to be gone for an extended period, you will need to take your name off the schedule until you return. If your spot is not available when you come back, I will do my best to find you something else that will work for you.
• 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.

Our office is located at: 925 N. Stapley, Suite A
Mesa, AZ 85203

We offer several teletherapy options for clients who can’t come to our office for sessions.

Consider our Teletherapy or MT AT HOME services for your music therapy needs from anywhere in the world.