Music is a profoundly powerful tool for connecting us to one another, to our emotions and to a sense of meaning. Qualified music therapists operate across the globe, including the tip of Africa, Cape Town.
Music therapy is the clinical use of music interventions and music experiences to achieve therapeutic goals, promote health and realise potentials. Music therapy is focused on the process of music experiences and the relationships developed through them. Despite the name, musical training is not required; this is because all human beings respond to basic elements of music. Music therapy can provide opportunities for communication when words are insufficient and it can assist in releasing and exploring emotions. Like other therapists, music therapists encourage, provide support for and offer guidance to their clients.
Music therapists are allied health care professionals registered with the HPCSA. Music therapists in South Africa hold a Masters degree in Music Therapy and have completed at minimum 1000 hours of supervised clinical internships at various placement sites. Music therapy techniques are highly adaptable and are suitable for use with a wide variety of clients including adults, teenagers, the elderly, children and even antenatal or end-of-life care.
What can a client expect to do in music therapy?
- Music improvisation, using instruments and/or voice
- Drumming
- Music listening
- Therapeutic singing
- Songwriting
- Verbal processing and reflection
- Movement to music
- Reminiscence-based music experiences
- Guided Imagery and Music/music visualisation experiences
- Creative Processes involving music (including drawing, clay and painting)
Book an appointment with Melissa Ellse (MMus, Music Therapy) by clicking here.
Melissa McWalter 