Acorn Music Therapy
Why Music Therapy?
What is Music Therapy?
Sometimes when difficult things happen it can be really hard to talk about them. Music therapy offers access to a new, symbolic way of communicating in which clients can project their hurt feelings into the music, to be held and contained by the therapist.
From our earliest days, we learn to communicate through music-like exchanges—our caregiver’s musical mirroring of our cries, coos, and rhythms. In the same way, music therapy can unlock communication, connection, and turn-taking in a non-threatening way (Malloch & Trevarthen, 2009). For a young person who hasn’t always been able to form healthy attachments, the music therapist can offer a “secure base” (Bowlby, 1988), allowing whatever needs to be expressed to rise naturally through the music.
In short, music therapy can be an incredibly transformative experience, helping people explore feelings, build resilience, and find new ways of relating to themselves and others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be musical to take part?
Not at all. No prior musical experience is needed. Sessions are adapted to each person’s needs.
What might a session look like?
It could involve improvising on instruments, singing, songwriting, or simply listening together. The key is how the music supports emotional expression and connection.
Is music therapy just listening to music?
No. While listening can be therapeutic, music therapy involves an intentional, therapeutic process facilitated by a trained therapist.
Who can benefit?
Children, young people, and adults; anyone who may find it difficult to express themselves with words, or who could benefit from a safe, creative space.
How is music therapy different from sound therapy?
Music therapy is interactive, relational, and clinically guided. Sound therapy is more about receiving vibrations and frequencies in a meditative context.