Music Therapy Overview
VAM is offering individual and group music therapy sessions for children and youth. Music therapy provides clients with opportunities to develop a broad range of skills through music, from communication to self-esteem, motor skills to emotional wellbeing, cognitive functioning to social skills. The overarching goal is to improve the quality of life of each child or youth through musical engagement. Children with or without identified disabilities are welcome to enroll in the music therapy program.
For children enrolled in individual session, an accredited music therapist (MTA) works with the family to develop an individualized plan, including therapeutic and musical goals. During weekly individual sessions, instrumental playing, singing, improvisation, dancing, songwriting and recording may all be integrated in order to help each child reach his or her goals.
Music therapists also facilitate groups focusing on a variety of needs and modalities. We currently offer preschool and elementary groups centered on communication and social skills development. Children enrolled in individual music therapy sessions may attend groups at no additional charge. Interested families should consult with a VAM music therapist to determine which group(s) will be the best fit for their child(ren).
Music Therapy Session Listing
Individual Sessions
Children and youth receive 12 one-hour individual sessions with an accredited music therapist each term. The music therapist works with the family to develop an individualized plan, including therapeutic and musical goals. Goals may focus on the development of communication, motor skills, sensory integration, emotional wellbeing, cognitive skills, social skills or musical skills. During weekly individual sessions, instrumental playing, singing, improvisation, dancing, songwriting and recording may all be integrated in order to help each child reach his or her goals. Please contact a VAM music therapist to discuss how your child can benefit from music therapy.
Fees: $950 per semester (12 one-hour sessions)
Annual Registration Fee: $75
Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays. Session times are to be arranged with the therapist.
Please Note: VAM music therapy clients registered for Individual Sessions are eligible to enroll in the following groups at no extra cost, upon recommendation of the music therapist.
Preschool Music Therapy Group
The Preschool Music Therapy Group provides rich opportunities for children ages 0-5 to develop communication and social skills. Children attend with their parent or caregiver, and explore singing, instrumental playing, dance and musical games. Emphasis is placed on building relationships, using songs to teach life skills and fostering language and communication skills development. Please contact a VAM music therapist to learn more about how your child can benefit from this group. (Enrollment: 4 children minimum, 10 children maximum)
Fees: $150 per semester (12 one-hour sessions)
Schedule: Mondays, TBD
Elementary Music Therapy Group
The Elementary Music Therapy Group promotes the development of strong communication and social skills through engagement in a variety of musical activities in children ages 6-12. Singing, instrumental playing, improvisation, dancing and musical games are explored as vehicles for building relationships, social skills, communication, cognitive skills and musical skills. Please contact a VAM music therapist to learn more about how your child can benefit from this group. (Enrollment: 4 children minimum, 10 children maximum)
Fees: $150 per semester (12 one-hour sessions)
Schedule: Wednesdays, TBD
