Active listening involves listening to music with full focus and intention without doing anything else at the same time. In a therapeutic context, it helps us elicit thoughts and feelings we want to explore in session. Listening to music can also help alter our mood and promote relaxation. 

Sessions often include playing a variety of percussion instruments (congas, djembes, shakers, claves, tambourines) as well as guitar, keyboard, or xylophone. The music can be in any style depending on the client’s preferences or emotional state. The music may be based on improvisation, familiar songs, or adaptive music lessons. No previous experience in music is necessary. People of all abilities can participate.

Songwriting is emerging as popular and effective tool in therapy. It provides with a healthy outlet that can help us explore and validate our thoughts and feelings in a creative and empowering way. Furthermore, an original song/recording can serve as legacy work. We have experience facilitating songwriting and recording for individuals and families of all ages and abilities. 

It is important for individuals with dementia to have an opportunity to engage in verbal communication at all levels of availability in order to stimulate cognition and reduce feelings of isolation and withdrawal. Music can be a powerful tool that elicits memories, thoughts, and feelings, and facilitates a therapeutic verbal process that may be otherwise unavailable. We have advanced training in Music and Psychotherapy, and specialize in working with the elderly population and the various challenges that come with aging.