The Music Therapy Music Clinic

Music therapy is the use of sounds and music within an evolving relationship between client and therapist to support and encourage physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.

Music Therapy: An Art Beyond Words by Leslie Bunt

Responding to music is an instinctive human capacity, unimpaired by injury, handicap or trauma. Music Therapists are clinically trained to use a variety of techniques, including musical improvisation, singing, composition, listening, performance and movement, in order to achieve therapeutic goals. One of the main advantages of Music Therapy is that it is a non-verbal means of communication. When it is difficult to use words to describe a traumatic experience, music can often express the inexpressible. This gives voice to the unheard and unhealed experience, and facilitates the healing process. Internationally, Music Therapy is used with a wide range of client groups. These include people affected by HIV&AIDS, victims of violence, people with physical or mental disability, the elderly, palliative care and work in hospital settings.

In South Africa, music is undeniably a vibrant part of all cultures. It is therefore a powerful tool when working in disadvantaged communities. Music Therapy is not a luxury healthcare activity but rather a clinical service that is able to address therapeutic needs, thus effecting positive change in our target communities. All Music Therapists are required to be registered with the HPCSA (Health Professions Council of SA).