Frequently Asked Questions

Music is a universal language that crosses boundaries of age and culture; it is a creative, motivating and calming medium that stimulates all of the senses and facilitates cognitive functioning, language skills and other developmental skills. Music Therapy can address several needs simultaneously and is highly transferable to the home environment. Music can be stable and predictable while simultaneously being flexible and spontaneous. It is therefore an apt medium for addressing the needs of clients in a variety of areas.

Music is a powerful medium which plays an important role in our everyday lives. Unlike other talking therapies, Music Therapy allows a client to engage in a musical dialogue where they can communicate and express feelings in a supportive environment. Music has the power to reach everyone regardless of illness or disability.

“Where words fail, music speaks.” ~ Hans Christian Anderson

Music Therapy is an evidence based clinical profession and a substantial body of literature exists to support its effectiveness in a variety of settings. Both quantitative and qualitative research can be found in sources such as the British Journal of Music Therapy, the Journal of Music Therapy, Music Therapy Perspectives, voices and other sources.

There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ session as the music therapist works in a creative way based on the individual needs of the client at that present time. Also sessions will differ according to the setting, clinical goals and clients that the therapist is working with.

Music therapy is normally offered on a weekly basis. Sessions range in length from half an hour to an hour depending on setting and needs of the clients. Music Therapy maybe provided as a short term intervention or for any length of time up to several years.

Costing will vary on a number of factors such as type of session etc. Where applicable MTCNI can provide help and information of possible funding opportunities. Please Contact Emma directly for more information.

Music Therapy requires no formal training in music. Each individual is able to respond intrinsically to music regardless of age, illness or disability.

Music Therapists can work either with individuals or small groups- usually no more than 8-10 clients depending on their needs. Music Therapy can take place at client’s at home, schools, hospitals, care homes etc.

This is very important! Make sure you check that your therapist is HCPC registered. You can check the register here: http://www.hcpc-uk.org/ All practising music therapists in the UK must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. Only those registered with HCPC can use the title ‘Music Therapist.’