Effective Music Therapy Strategies for ADHD

Discover how music therapy supports focus and calm in ADHD. Read my latest article featured in ADDitude Magazine with practical, easy strategies.

PhD Research Published: Empowering Families Through Music Therapy

I’m thrilled to share that my PhD research has been published in the renowned ‘Arts in Psychotherapy’ journal, a leading publication in the field of therapeutic arts. In this article, I explore how families of children with disabilities can be empowered to independently create music with their child at home, offering practical strategies and insightsContinue reading “PhD Research Published: Empowering Families Through Music Therapy”

2024 NDIS Changes: Music Therapy Still Supported

Music therapy has always been and continues to be a NDIS Funded Support. In late November 2024, the Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA) was made aware of a leaked decision to remove music therapy as a NDIS support in the absence of any consultation. After sustained advocacy by participants, the AMTA and music therapy professionals,Continue reading “2024 NDIS Changes: Music Therapy Still Supported”

Music Therapy: A Unique Approach to Ailments

When someone has a headache, a medical doctor might prescribe paracetamol or Panadol to relieve the pain. But what if we consider why the headache occurred in the first place? Could it be due to financial stress, relationship issues, physical ailments, work pressures, or even the weather? In the realm of music therapy, the approachContinue reading “Music Therapy: A Unique Approach to Ailments”

Why Music Therapy is Essential for Emotional Wellbeing

Do you like listening to music? Why? Music is a non-verbal language that stimulates our emotions. Experiencing the impact of music simply requires listening, without needing to actively engage. Music therapists can take this a step further by using live music to attune to individuals and assist in their emotional expression. Therefore, if you feelContinue reading “Why Music Therapy is Essential for Emotional Wellbeing”

Success of Online Music Therapy: Ajay’s Impact

Since 2020, Ajay has been leading group music therapy online in New Zealand, collaborating with IHC to support disabled children and their families. He has conducted over 200 successful sessions, with 5-20 participants each, and is now offering these sessions in Australia. Ajay is also known as Ahjay Stelino.

Impact of PhD Research on Families with Disabilities

I have been privileged to be invited to have an article written about my PhD work with families of children with disabilities by Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand. It highlights the practical nature of my PhD and how I continue to use these skills in my clinical work to help families. Read by theContinue reading “Impact of PhD Research on Families with Disabilities”

Best Microphones for Kids: Enhance Creativity & Confidence

Microphones are effective tools in music therapy for neurodiverse children, enhancing their motivation to produce sounds and boosting their confidence in singing. Two recommended microphones are the Hape Mighty Echo Microphone, a battery-free option, and the Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone, which allows for wireless music play. Both make excellent gifts.

Encouraging Speech Through Music: Tips for Parents

Songs can effectively motivate speech development in children, especially through the use of melody and rhythm. For children with complex neurodiverse needs, focusing on vowel sounds, which are the first produced by infants, is often more beneficial than introducing various speech sounds. A suggested song emphasizes this approach.

Effective Transition Strategies for Neurodiverse Children

Transitioning from one activity to another can be challenging for many children, especially those with neurodiverse needs. These transitions often require additional support, as children thrive on familiarity, and sudden changes can feel daunting. Musical Cues One effective strategy is the use of songs. In music therapy sessions, we often use start and end songsContinue reading “Effective Transition Strategies for Neurodiverse Children”