The Music Therapy department at Ravenswood supports our service users in interactive music making as a means of communication, self-expression & emotional support. Music therapists are skilled musicians who have trained in using music as a psychological therapy at Postgraduate Masters Degree level. They are state registered with the Health Professions Council
The music therapists at Ravenswood are:
(From L-R)
Catrin Piears-Banton
SRAsT (M) MA |
Helen Wallace
SRAsT (M) BA |
Emily Young
SRAsT (M) BA | Head of Music Therapy
Lisa Margetts
SRAsT (M) MA GRNCM |
What is Music Therapy?
Fundamentally, music therapy is the use of music to develop a therapeutic relationship between the service user and therapist. Music-making forms the basis for communication in this relationship. Generally both client and therapist take an active part in the sessions by playing, singing and listening. The primary aim is not to teach the service user to sing or play an instrument.
What happens in a session?
The service user and therapist improvise music together. We offer individual or group music therapy sessions. Service users are encouraged to use accessible instruments and their own voices to explore sounds and to create a musical language of their own. The therapist offers musical and practical support as necessary to encourage this process. The music played covers a wide range of styles in order to complement the individual needs of each client. Much of the music is improvised, enhancing the individual nature of each relationship.
Who is it for?
Anyone who could benefit from another means of self-expression, communication or support with challenges in their lives. Music can convey feeling without the use of words and the ability to respond to music is usually unimpaired by developmental disorders.
How can it help?
Music therapy can provide a safe setting where difficult or repressed feelings may be expressed and contained. By offering support and acceptance the therapist can help the service user to work towards emotional release and self-acceptance. Music is a social activity and is a motivating medium for many people. Music therapy can develop listening, sharing, physical, attention and concentration and memory skills. It can develop self-awareness, confidence and self-esteem in making relationships with others. As each person’s needs are different, there are various possibilities offered by music therapy and there will normally be an overlap between the areas described.
How do I access the service?
Referral forms are available from the music therapy department and can be downloaded from the links below.
Contact:
020 8809 8809
info@norwood.org.uk
Downloads:
1. Accessible information leaflet
2. Introduction to Music Therapy Leaflet
3. Music Therapy Referral Form
Links:
The Association of Professional Music Therapists
The Health Professions Council
