What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is an evidence-based allied health practice that uses music intentionally to support health, functioning and wellbeing.

It is delivered by a university-trained, registered music therapist and is distinct from music lessons or entertainment. The focus is therapeutic outcomes, not musical performance or talent.

Music therapy is suitable for people of all ages and abilities. No prior musical skill is required.
Therapy may support:
  • Emotional regulation
  • Communication and social connection
  • Cognitive and physical goals
  • Mental health and identity development
  • Adjustment following injury, illness or life transitions

​Sessions are collaborative, individualised and grounded in each person’s strengths.

What can I expect?
Initial Consultation

The first session involves:
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  • Discussion of relevant health, developmental and music history
  • Exploration of goals and expectations
  • A brief music-based assessment
  • Collaborative planning of therapeutic direction

This session helps determine whether music therapy is the right fit and clarifies how sessions can meaningfully support your goals.

What happens in a session?
Sessions are adapted to each individual’s needs, processing style and goals.
Interventions may include:
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  • Singing and voice work
  • Instrument playing (including adaptive instruments)
  • Songwriting and lyric exploration
  • Improvisation
  • Music-assisted counselling
  • Guided relaxation and regulation strategies
  • Rhythm-based cognitive or physical exercises
  • Memory recall and reminiscence
  • Movement to music​

​You do not need to provide instruments. We use voice, simple instruments, movement, household objects, recordings or technology as appropriate.
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Clients are never required to participate in anything that feels uncomfortable. Therapy progresses at a pace that feels safe and sustainable.

I can’t sing- is that a problem?
Not at all.

Musical ability is not a requirement. Engagement can involve listening, reflecting, rhythmic movement, lyric discussion or structured activities, whatever supports your goals.
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An openness to exploring music in some form is all that’s needed.

I feel nervous
Feeling unsure before starting therapy is completely normal.

Sessions are designed to feel respectful, collaborative and grounded. Many people find that music naturally lowers barriers and creates a sense of safety and ease.
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Therapy is not about performing, it is about support.

I want to learn an instrument                      
Instrument learning can be incorporated when it aligns with therapeutic goals.

Unlike traditional music lessons, therapy-based instrument work is flexible and adapted for physical, cognitive or emotional needs. The focus is skill development in service of wellbeing, confidence and functional engagement.

Instruments may include voice, guitar, ukulele, piano or percussion.

Location & Telehealth                      
Music Therapy Wellness is a mobile service offering:
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  • In-home sessions
  • School or childcare visits
  • Aged care and residential settings
  • Online sessions via Telehealth​

​Online therapy offers flexibility, privacy and reduced sensory load. It is particularly helpful for individuals managing fatigue, mobility challenges or recovery at home.

​Fees
Standard session (50 minutes): $183

This fee includes:
  • 50-minute therapy session
  • Clinical planning and resource development
  • Documentation and progress notes

Additional reporting or letters of support can be arranged where required.

​Travel

Travel is charged for face-to-face services in accordance with funding guidelines. Mileage and tolls are not passed on to clients.
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Session length may be adjusted where clinically appropriate.

NDIS
Music therapy is recognised by the NDIS under Capacity Building: Improved Daily Living- Therapy Supports. It can assist in developing skills, independence, social participation, communication, emotional regulation, and daily living.

Supports can be delivered individually or in groups.

Unfortunately there is a considerable degree of mis-information related to the inclusion of music therapy under the NDIS. The Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA) and the NDIA advise music therapy is an approved therapeutic intervention under the National Disability Insurance Scheme where deemed reasonable and necessary. 
  • Click HERE to access letters from Federal MP, Pat Conroy; and the general manager of Access and Planning for the NDIS, William Garton for clarification on this matter. 
  • Click HERE for additional information from the AMTA. 
  • Click HERE to read page 23 of the Review of therapy pricing arrangement where music therapy is highlighted for inclusion.

The AMTA are working hard to overcome this mis-information issue. If you are being told music therapy is not funded by the NDIS, please contact our professional representative to report it via: [email protected]. 
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For details, click here:

Therapeutic Approach
Sarah’s work is grounded in a strengths-based, neuroaffirming philosophy.

Rather than focusing on deficits, therapy identifies and builds on existing capacity, resilience and potential.

Neurodivergence is recognised and respected. Therapy adapts to different processing styles, communication preferences and sensory needs.
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Every person deserves to feel understood, capable and valued. This belief underpins every session.
“Music can lift us out of depression or move us to tears - it is a remedy, a tonic, orange juice for the ear. But for many of my neurological patients, music is even more - it can provide access, even when no medication can, to movement, to speech, to life.
​For them, music is not a luxury, but a necessity.” 
― Oliver Sacks
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