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Music Therapy FAQ's

'The act of revealing oneself fully to another and still being accepted may be the major vehicle to therapeutic help'  Yalom

What is music therapy?

Music therapy uses music as an alternative form of communication to engage and address therapeutic needs of clients, through expression and exploration of themselves and their relationships with others, within a therapeutic relationship. Rhythm, melody, tonality and timbre can be used to convey emotion, interact with others, develop communication skills, explore creativity and important personal themes, and reflect with insight. Sessions may involve vocalising, singing, talking and periods of silence. It’s not necessary to be able to play an instrument before coming, and you can choose not to play one. Clients have the opportunity to engage with a range of instruments and express themselves creatively with the therapist.

Who is music therapy for?

Music therapy can be accessed by anyone, regardless of age, stage in life, illness or disability. Clients are not required to have any previous musical experience or training, nor show any previous particular interest in music. Music therapists will accept self-referrals, as well as referrals from parents, guardians, teachers, counsellors, social workers and  other professionals.  

As music therapy provides a non-verbal and indirect mode of communication, it can be particularly helpful for children or adults who are non-verbal, or for whom social interaction may be an area of difficulty.

Music therapy has proven effectiveness for those with:

  • Addiction

  • ADHD

  • Attachment difficulties

  • Autism Spectrum Condition

  • Bereavement

  • Dementia

  • Developmental delay

  • Domestic abuse

  • Eating disorders

  • Family and adoption difficulties

  • Learning disabilities

  • Life threatening conditions

  • Life-limiting conditions and end of life care

  • Mental health difficulties

  • Neurological conditions

  • School inclusion

  • Sensory processing needs

  • Social, emotional and behavioural difficulties

  • Trauma

What does a music therapy session look like?
Music therapy sessions are as unique as the individuals that attend them. Keskar approaches each session in a person-centred way, attending to the needs of the individual. Some sessions may be more non-verbal, whereas others may contain very little music. Each is equally valid.

Music Therapists work with individuals and groups as appropriate.

Each session is private and confidential.
How long can therapy last?
The length of individual sessions are tailored to the need of the individual, but are usually between 30 and 45 minutes.

Therapy can consist of a short assessment period; a mutually-agreed upon period of time; or
 ongoing treatment that ends when therapeutically appropriate.
The person in therapy can also initiate the ending in discussion during therapy sessions.
What is a music therapist?
In order to practice, music therapists need to hold a masters degree in music therapy and be registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC). Therapists are supported with regular supervision and continuing professional development (CPD).

Keskar's therapists are also registered with the British Association of Music Therapists (BAMT), DBS checked and hold all appropriate Insurances.
We follow NHS and HCPC safeguarding guidelines and update our training as required.

Therapy can take place in community centres and schools around the Redruth area. In certain circumstances we can also work with people in their own home.

If you are interested in making a referral or self-referral, please click the button below to get in touch.

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