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)

Music therapists assess emotional well-being, physical health, social functioning, communication abilities, and cognitive skills through musical responses; design music sessions for individuals and groups based on client needs using music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, music performance, and learning through music; participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning, ongoing evaluation, and follow up. (American Music Therapy Association definition)

Children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly with mental health needs, developmental and learning disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease and other aging related conditions, substance abuse problems, brain injuries, physical disabilities, and acute and chronic pain, including mothers in labor. (American Music Therapy Association definition)

All music therapy applicants are given an initial assessment. During the assessment, the therapist determines the nature of the applicant’s special needs, their emotional well being, level of social functioning, communication abilities and cognitive skills. After the initial assessment, the therapist will make appropriate study recommendations to meet the needs and goals the student. Once an appropriate course of therapy has been recommended and agreed upon between therapist and parent/caregiver, music therapy sessions can begin. Individual music therapy sessions are billed at the Master Faculty rate.

Adapted Lessons for clarinet, guitar, piano, viola, violin and voice are available for students with special needs. Lessons may be anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes weekly and are typically once per week, depending on attention span and needs.