About Music Therapy Cornwall
I founded Music Therapy Cornwall after more than 10 years as a practising community Music Therapist in London. With a previous history as a full time singer/songwriter living, writing and performing in London I felt it was time to step outside of city life and set up a community practise in a new environment with fresh challenges and rewards.
In my time as a therapist I have become acutely aware that many of those who would benefit from music therapy are unable to do so for numerous reasons: being housebound or unable to travel due to anxiety, illness, disability or simple logistics. Also, some people can find the typical clinical setting of therapy sessions stressful and inhibiting.
In light of this I offer music therapy to clients in their own homes, or more familiar environments such as day-care centres and specialist schools and care homes. My willingness to be flexible and adapt to my clients’ surroundings, instead of them to mine, has meant that the people I work with are more relaxed and therefore able to connect and express themselves far more readily. I also gain valuable insight into their daily life experiences, and this allows me to tailor my work in a way that is unique and appropriate to each individual. A client-centred approach such as this provides pleasure, choice, independence and empowerment to people who often have very little control in their lives.
Melanie Garside BSc (Hons), MA.
We work with individuals and groups, covering:
- Learning disabilities
- Neurological and physical disabilities
- Dementia and elderly issues
- Mental health issues
- Communication disorders
- Autistic spectrum disorder
- Terminal illness or bereavement
- Adolescence issues
- Emotional and behavioural difficulties
- Post-partum and bonding issues
We visit:
- People’s homes
- Residential care homes
- Day care centres
- Hospitals
- Sheltered accommodation
- Assisted living spaces
- Specialist schools
Music Therapy can improve the quality of life and wellbeing:
- Increasing creativity, confidence and self-esteem
- Improving social and communication skills
- Helping people to manage emotional problems
- Unlocking potential, pleasure and ability
The MTC Approach
I understand that the idea of picking up and playing an instrument may be initially intimidating for clients.
With this in mind, I aim to create an informal and relaxed atmosphere where clients can choose to play a wide variety of instruments including drums, bells, chimes, shakers, tambourines and glockenspiels. All the instruments provided are aesthetically pleasing, sourced eclectically and are interesting items in their own right, providing both musical and sensory stimulation.
There is no pressure or expectation put upon clients, and they are not expected to have any previous musical experience. There is no right or wrong way of making music!
During sessions we explore the different sounds we can make together. Using my guitar, my voice and my harmonica I improvise around the client, often using familiar melodies and songs I know they enjoy. This creates a ‘musical conversation’ and enables an emotional connection to grow.
As our relationship develops, clients come to realise that, by listening and directly responding to their musical choices, I am communicating a genuine desire to connect and follow where they may lead. This experience helps them feel they are being heard and truly accepted. In turn, this feeling of empowerment helps their confidence and self esteem to blossom.
How Often?
- Clients are generally seen on a weekly basis, although individual timetables can be catered for.
How Long?
- Individual sessions are usually 30-45 minutes in duration.
- Group sessions run for 45-60 minutes.
- Sessions should take place at the same time and location each week, with planned breaks prepared in advance.
How Much?
- All costs include travel to and from the client, use of instruments and insurance.
- Fees are tailored to clients’ requirements, and are usually quoted on an individual basis.