Discover how music therapy supports focus and calm in ADHD. Read my latest article featured in ADDitude Magazine with practical, easy strategies.
Category Archives: Neurodiverse
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.
It takes time
Building a therapeutic relationship with a person takes time. I find that it takes about 8 weeks of regular weekly sessions before the relationship builds. During this initial time, it can seem like the person isn’t even aware that I am there, or indicates that he or she doesn’t want me there. During these firstContinue reading “It takes time”
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.
Difference between a Music Therapist and a Music Teacher
A music teacher focuses on teaching the elements of music. The elements of music are pitch (high and low), rhythm (the beat), timbre (the instrument), expression (loud and soft), etc. A music therapist focuses on using music to help people with their emotional, physical, social and cognitive (thinking) needs. Thus a music therapist focuses onContinue reading “Difference between a Music Therapist and a Music Teacher”
Feel Better Music Therapy 