Hallie laughing whilst playing the piano

Music therapy

We offer a space in which children and adults can communicate and express themselves, through words if they are able to, but also in non-verbal ways through vocalisation, body language and facial expressions.

Music therapy

Music therapy sessions at Demelza will open up wonderful possibilities for engagement and interaction for you, your child and family.

The child and their family members are at the heart of every session and you will have the opportunity to lead the session if you wish. The sessions can be loud and lively or relaxing and soothing and maybe even a mixture of all of these.

Some children may choose to make up a song about how they are feeling; others will simply wish to be still and quiet in the therapeutic space, spending time away from the medical interventions they have to face on a daily basis.

In addition to instruments, music therapists may use other items, such as sensory props and music technology, to add another experience to sessions.

Benefits of music therapy

The benefits of music therapy at Demelza include:

Communication

Some of the children and young people may find it difficult to communicate verbally so music can be an amazing tool for communication without the need for words

Self-expression

Music therapy sessions offer a time and space for children to explore, identify and express their feelings – all through the power of music and lyrics

Empowerment

Music therapy focuses on what a child or person can do, not on what they are unable to do

Choice

Demelza offers private one-to-one sessions and music therapy groups are also available

Memory making

Sessions offers families the opportunity to sing, dance and play together and build precious memories

Bereavement support

Music therapy forms an important part of Demelza’s bereavement services, supporting families to process their grief

Online music groups

Music therapist, Victoria, singing and playing guitar

Online music groups with a senior music therapist take place each week for the children families.

We will provide you with details on how you can make the sessions a full sensory experience using items to feel, see, hear and smell, which are easily found around the house.

It’s an opportunity for children to continue to make music, sing, dance and get support, even if they are unable to attend in person, reducing feelings of isolation.

Interested in music therapy sessions?

If you're an existing Demelza family you can get in touch with us to book on to a music therapy or art therapy session.

Get in touch

Lucy's music therapy

"We look forward to these sessions every week and they are a fun start to our weekends.

Being able to connect with other families taking part in music therapy has been a lifeline."