Music Therapy

Music therapy is an established psychological intervention that harnesses the benefits of music to address specific therapeutic goals.  Sessions can be useful for individuals, families including foster families, couples or groups. The way that people interact with the instruments provides a reflection into their interactions with the world in general, highlighting their strengths and difficulties. Music therapy explores, challenges and develops these within a gentle, non-threatening setting. Dynamics within families and groups can be addressed and explored, leading to greater awareness and positive change.

Therapeutic goals might include developing, maintaining or rehabilitating physical strength and coordination or speech and language, improving emotional regulation and awareness, or developing social skills. In Ireland, music therapists are usually members of IACAT, the Irish Association for Creative Arts Therapies.

Training

I have many years' experience as a trainer for health professionals, educators, parents, social workers, and musicians in using music therapeutically in various settings. I have devised and delivered workshops on topics such as Music and Mental Health, Music for Emotional Regulation, Music and Developing Social Skills, Music for Pain Management, Music to Support Early Developmental Skills, Music for Pregnancy, Music for Speech Rehabilitation, Connecting Creatively in Adolescence and Music to Support End-of-Life Care.

MIRE (Music and Imagery for Resilience and Emotional Regulation)

MIRE is a “Music and Care” method using music listening and positive imagery to boost mental resilience and emotional regulation. It involves listening to carefully curated music in a relaxed state, focusing on positive imagery, followed by drawing and verbal reflection with a therapist. It can lead to increased self-awareness, resourcing and resilience.

It is an approach developed by SONORA, a multidisciplinary team of music therapists, doctors, psychologists, social workers, musicians, and educators dedicated to advancing music therapy in practice, education, and research. With over 10 years of experience, SONORA applies music therapy in medical fields (cancer, chronic illness, neurology, pain management), mental health (trauma, PTSD, anxiety, addiction), elderly care (dementia, caregiver support), and community projects (women’s empowerment, refugee support, youth mental resilience). SONORA also conducts research to validate the therapeutic impact of music on mental, physical, and social health.