How does the Centre for the Arts in Human Development make use of Music Therapy in its programs?
At The Centre for the Arts in Human Development, music therapy is conducted in weekly group sessions with adult developmentally disabled clients. A certified, master s level clinician employed as a consultant to the Centre conducts the groups. The enhancement of self-esteem and socialization skills are primary goals of the groups. Individual goals are also set for each person in the groups. Group musical improvisation, in which clients express their own rhythms, melodies and songs, comprises the primary mode of expression in the groups. How clients express themselves, including which instruments they choose to play, gives the music therapist valuable information about each individual. A wide variety of music therapy techniques are utilized to work with this material to achieve individual and group goals. Both directive and non-directive approaches are used in the group process.
