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What can I expect in my first session?
Embarking on Your Musical Journey...
Welcome to your first music therapy session! Whether you're a client, a parent or a support co-ordinator in Adelaide, I am excited to introduce you to the world of music therapy and guide you through what you, your loved one or client can expect in an initial music therapy session.
The first music therapy session is all about building rapport, or getting to know one another. In this session your music therapist here in Adelaide will strive to understand more about you whilst making sure you feel safe and comfortable in your session. It's a welcoming space for you to ask any questions you may have and for your music therapist to learn about your goals and how music therapy can best support you. Music therapy will be explained to you along with what you might do in your sessions.
I understand that meeting someone new or trying something unfamiliar can be overwhelming. So, let's walk you through what your first session might include.
Benefit from music therapy today.
Each session is tailored to a person’s individual needs and
goals.
Client Experience
Music therapy is all about connection. Your therapist will spend time getting to know your musical tastes (songs or artists you like), hobbies, musical background (you don’t need to be musical to participate in music therapy), and what you hope to achieve through your time together.
Depending on your goals and preferences, your session may include:
- Hello and goodbye songs to provide structure and predictability
- Playing instruments
- Singing
- Exploring song lyrics
- Music-assisted relaxation techniques
- Creating personalised music playlists
- Listening to music
- Writing songs – at music therapy Adelaide you will also be able to record these songs or have your music therapist record them if you choose.
- Learning an instrument or how to sing
- Music assisted counselling.
Guidance for Parents or Support Persons
If you're a parent or support worker/person, your involvement in the first music therapy session depends on the client's age, independence
and comfort level. You might be asked to assist with communication, provide emotional support, or share insights into the client's
preferences and goals. If the client is comfortable to be in the session independently, you may simply be required to remain in the waiting
area for support if needed, or to drop off your client and pick them up once their session has finished.
Questions and Assessment
The first session is the perfect time to ask questions, share with your music therapist any support needs you might have and discuss your
goals. Over the following 1 – 2 sessions your music therapist may continue to assess the most effective ways for sessions to be structured
to best meet your needs.
What Will the Session Look Like?
Music therapy sessions can vary from energetic and playful to calm and reflective and you can engage with music actively or simply by
listening. Your music therapist here in Adelaide will adapt each session based on your goals and interests, focusing on areas like emotional
regulation, communication, self-expression, motor skills, quality of life, positive experiences and supporting your mental health. Every
session is unique, designed to meet you where you are at on any given day.
Conclusion
Music's versatility makes it an invaluable tool for therapy. In your first session, the music therapist’s priority is to ensure you feel comfortable and supported as you embark on your music therapy journey.
For more information on how music therapy can benefit you, your child, or your client, please don't hesitate to reach out to Adelaide based Registered Music Therapist, Anneliis Way, today. She believes that music makes life better looks forward to sharing the transformative power of music therapy with you.
Discover the benefits of music therapy today.
Providing home and clinic based music therapy services across the southern suburbs of Adelaide.