Frequently Asked Questions
What is Music Therapy? |
“Music therapy is a research-based practice and profession in which music is used to actively support people as they strive to improve their health, functioning and wellbeing.
Music therapy is the intentional use of music by a university trained professional who is registered with the Australian Music Therapy Association Inc. Registered music therapists draw on an extensive body of research and are bound by a code of ethics that informs their practice. Music therapists incorporate a range of music making methods within and through a therapeutic relationship. Music therapy is different from music education and entertainment as it focuses on health, functioning and wellbeing. Music therapists are committed to supporting people of any age and ability regardless of musical skill, culture or background.” Source: http://www.austmta.org.au Through the therapy, the client/family and the therapist work together to develop a set of individualised goals. These goals vary from person to person, but are generally aimed at creating positive changes in behaviour and emotional well-being. For example, communication can be challenging for some people, which can lead to feeling isolated. Music therapy is a chance to not only develop one’s abilities, but also a way of experiencing a real connection with another human being. In many ways, it allows the client to be seen and acknowledged. Unlike music lessons, the goal is not necessarily to emerge from the therapy with higher musical talent, but rather to meet the goals set – which can be everything from increasing one's self-esteem, to developing social skills or improving motor movements. |
What can I expect? |
During an initial consultation, a music therapist will sit down with the client and/or family to take a relevant health & music history. The therapist may want to discuss the client or family's expectations of therapy before conducting a thorough assessment session involving live music. The therapist will bring a guitar and range of instruments/resources so you won't need to supply anything. Following the session the therapist will discuss her observations with you & provide guidance around the potential for music therapy to assist the client in their wellbeing or recovery journey. For information about online music therapy sessions please click here.
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What will we do? |
There are numerous therapeutic interventions & music activities that our therapist's employ, for example:
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"But...I can't sing" |
It's a common misperception that you need to be able to sing or play an instrument to benefit from music therapy. While it does often incorporate active music making, there are many other music techniques we employ to help target your goals. If you can sing or play an instrument that's wonderful, but it's not necessary. An interest in music is all that is required.
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"But...I feel nervous" |
Feeling a little nervous or apprehensive before a session is completely normal but rest assured Sarah will aim to make things as comfortable as possible for you. Due to the innate enjoyment that comes with music discussion/engagement, clients tend to relax and begin to enjoy themselves pretty soon into the session.
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I want to learn an instrument |
Learning an instrument is possible during music therapy and falls under therapeutic instruction. It differs from formal music learning as the therapist approaches tuition with a supportive, relaxed and flexible approach. She will take into account any physical, psychological or cognitive challenges that may prevent the client from accessing more traditional music tuition. Sarah is able to teach voice, guitar and ukulele; as well as beginner to intermediate piano or drums.
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Location |
The Music Therapy Wellness Clinic is a mobile service meaning we make your life easier by travelling to you. All sessions take place in the home or other appropriate location (i.e. aged care, childcare centre, school or medical facility). Please make sure you are able to provide an appropriate space for sessions to occur & consider potential interruptions or need for privacy/confidentiality. We also offer Telehealth Online Sessions.
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Fees |
Fees outlined below are in accordance with the NDIS Price Guide but may vary depending on the type of session you require and whether or not travel is required.
1 hour ............................................. $193.99 45 mins ........................................... $145.49 30 mins ........................................... $96.99 Travel ............................................... $16.15/5 minutes Summary Report ...........................$193.99 (1-2 pages) Comprehensive Report ...............$484.98 (10+ pages) We do not charge additional time to write session notes or liaise with you outside of sessions. This is included in the fees above. If travel is required please contact us and we'll be happy to give you an accurate quote. |
NDIS
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Music therapy, delivered by a registered music therapist, has been recognised by the NDIS for inclusion under the support cluster of ‘Capacity Building’ - Improved Daily Living - which includes assessment, training, strategy development and/or therapy (including Early Childhood Intervention) supports to assist the development or increase a participant’s skills and/or capacity for independence and community participation. Supports can be delivered to individuals or groups.
Here are the details: SUPPORT CATEGORY: Capacity Building: Improved Daily Living: Therapy Supports SUPPORT ITEM NAME: Assessment Recommendation Therapy or Training - Music Therapist SUPPORT ITEM NUMBER: 15_615_0128_1_3 This is current as per the 2023-2024 NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits pp92 |
"But...I've been told music therapy isn't funded" |
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.
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: ndisrep@austmta.org.au. |
“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
For them, music is not a luxury, but a necessity.”
― Oliver Sacks