So... It’s your first music therapy session with Anneliis...

What can you expect?

Your initial music therapy session serves as an introduction between you and your music therapist. This is a chance for you to ask any questions and for your music therapist to begin understanding you better.

We recognize that meeting a new person or visiting a new place can be daunting. To ease any concerns, here's what to expect during your first session.

Client Experience

Music therapy is a relational process. Your music therapist will spend time learning about your musical likes and dislikes, your hobbies, your musical background, what you would like to focus on in your sessions and whether you have any specific needs your music therapist needs to accommodate. Depending on your age and goals your first music therapy session might include:

Features of Music Therapy with Anneliis...

Supporting Transitions

Greeting and farewell songs to help with transitions.

Music Creation

Playing Instruments & Singing along with live music.

Music Discussion

Discussing music, including the lyrics of the song.

Relaxation & Resources

Music assisted relaxation, Creating playlists

Music Therapy

These activities tailored to preferences, help therapist learn more about you. 

These activities, tailored to your preferences, help the music therapist learn more about you.

Guidance for Parents or Support Persons

Your involvement in the music therapy session will depend on the age and comfort of the client. If you're present, the therapist might ask you to assist with communication, physical, or emotional support. For children, you may be asked about their favourite music and the goals for their music therapy experience. For adults, you might provide insights into their preferences and desired outcomes from music therapy, if they are not able to communicate this themselves.

Questions and Assessment

The first session and the subsequent two assessment sessions are an ideal time to ask questions about music therapy and discuss what you would like to work towards. This helps the music therapist understand your expectations and explain the different ways music therapy might support you in achieving your goals.

What Will the Session Look Like?

Music therapy sessions can range from lively and playful to calm and introspective. The therapist adjusts each session based on their observations of the client's needs in areas like regulation, communication, motor and social skills, and mental health. No two sessions look the same, and your music therapist will adapt each session to meet you where you are at on any given day.

Music's adaptability makes it a personalised and accessible tool for therapy. In your first session your music therapist will focus on making sure you feel comfortable and at ease as you begin your music therapy journey.

For more information on how music therapy can benefit you, your child, your client, or your family member, please contact Registered Music Therapist, Anneliis Way, today.