Children with special educational needs
Our therapists work with children and young people with a wide range of needs including Autistic Spectrum Conditions, Learning Disabilities, Developmental / Neurological Conditions, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties, Mental Health Problems, Attachment issues, Sensory Issues, ADHD and Dyspraxia. Music therapy can help children by providing a safe, supportive, playful and creative space, where children can express themselves freely, helping to build their confidence and self-esteem.
“I cannot think of anything else that could have offered him the same brief but vital breathing space each week throughout his teenage years. I thought of music therapy as his rock to hold onto when school life was disintegrating. I believe he felt the same way.”
“Although her hand function is still poor, her shared attention, her focus, her motivation and her intention to communicate have all improved significantly as a result of the music therapy. Perhaps most importantly, she is very, very happy in the sessions. It is, without doubt, her favourite activity of the week.”
Children with Autistic Spectrum Conditions
Music therapy is widely recognised as an effective form of therapy for children with Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC), where communicating, playing and relating to others may be a challenge.
“Music therapy has been our rock over the last two and a half years. The weekly sessions have been a place of sanctuary for my son when things were very difficult. Over time, he has increased his confidence and ability to work to another’s agenda (in this case the music therapist’s) in a safe, creative setting.”
“He has really made massive strides in speech, signing and seeking one to one interaction and dialogue. It is really amazing but I am sure music therapy has done something to stimulate his ability to take this information on and to verbalise, copy signs.”
“The weekly therapy he has received has been remarkably successful. He is able to express himself more freely and his empathy has developed.”
Children with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH)
RMT provides therapeutic support to children attending mainstream schools with SEMH needs. Through music therapy we offer children the opportunity to engage in a therapeutic relationship, enabling them to develop new and positive ways of being with and relating to others. This may also help children develop greater awareness and insight into their own emotions and behaviour. Music therapy provides a stepping stone to re-engaging with classroom learning and encourages constructive engagement in education and society.
“When I was in a very bad place and didn’t see any hope for anything Lucy was there to keep me encouraged and engaged in my love for music and musical theatre! On some days when I didn’t feel like singing or talking Lucy completely understood that and there was always so many more options to choose from!”
“The sessions have helped my daughter strengthen her emotional resilience and given her the confidence to carry on. Without the support and commitment of RMT I believe she would still be struggling; long may this vital service continue.”
We also work with young people in need of support for their mental health needs.
Referrals can be made by parents, carers or any professional working with the child or young person in an educational, health or social care setting. Once we receive your completed form we will contact you to arrange an initial Music Therapy Assessment.