Frequently Asked Questions
What is a music therapy session like?
Part of what makes music therapy so powerful is that no two sessions are alike. Each session is customized to match every client’s goals, objectives, and preferences. A session directly involves the client and their loved ones, if they choose to participate. The music therapist will use a variety of techniques and strategies in order to facilitate the treatment plan.
Typical music-based interventions can include
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Song singing and reminiscing
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Thematic sessions intended to stimulate cognition and memory recall
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Songwriting and improvisation to foster creativity and expression of emotion without words
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Lyric analysis and discussion
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Music-assisted relaxation
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Music and movement, including instrument playing, to increase range of motion and creative stimulation
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Participation and reminiscence with family members to share meaningful moments together
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Musical life review and legacy projects
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Restoring or improving cognitive, speech, or movement using neurologic music therapy protocols
How long is a typical session? How often will I see you?
Music therapy sessions are offered in 30, 45 or 60 minute intervals. Weekly sessions are generally most effective, but each treatment plan is written to suit your particular needs, goals, and lifestyle.
Do I need to be a musician or have experience playing an instrument? What if I can’t sing?
The short answer is no! You do not need any prior music experience to benefit from music therapy. Music therapy is so much more than singing a song, but if you sing, it doesn’t matter what your voice sounds like. The natural ability to respond positively to music is innate within all of us. Music therapy addresses non-musical goals, so your musical output is never judged.
What can music therapy do for me or my loved one?
Music therapy is used for a wide range of goals, which vary based on every client’s personal situation and preferences.
Commonly addressed goals include:
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Cognition, memory, and attending to tasks
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Fine and gross motor skills
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Expressive and receptive communication skills
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Reminiscence and memory making
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Emotional expression and support
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General well-being
Direct results of these goals can include:
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Personal enjoyment of the music experiences
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Connection with friends, family, and others around them
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Increased memory and attention
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A decrease in pain, anxiety, or confusion
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Improved mobility or speech
Music therapy offers a unique approach to treatment due to music's ability to stimulate multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. This can create fresh neural pathways and results in new responses, which is how music therapy can accomplish the above goals. Music generally evokes an emotional response and this effect engages clients, and often makes sessions fun!
Do you accept insurance?
For private clients, Bluebird Music Therapy LLC accepts self-payment for sessions. Some insurance policies may cover music therapy services. Check with your health insurance provider and we will gladly help with required documentation. For eldercare facilities and organizations, we can help you find ways for reimbursement of services.
Do you offer telehealth? How can I stay healthy?
You don't have to settle for feelings of isolation and lack of socialization due to COVID-19 concerns; we offer telehealth sessions for your comfort via HIPAA-compliant video platforms. If you have any technology or setup questions, please contact us.
How do I know if music therapy is right for me or my loved one?
Bluebird Music Therapy LLC offers a complimentary consultation via phone or HIPAA-compliant video to help you determine if music therapy might be right for you, your loved one, or your organization. During the initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to talk with the music therapist to discuss your goals and challenges. An assessment with each client is conducted prior to beginning services, which is a great way to see what music therapy is like and how it may benefit. From there, a treatment plan is written and shared to determine goals, skills, areas of need, preferences, all through the joy of music.
Music therapy might be a good fit, what’s next?
Check out our "Getting Started" tab in the main menu for additional information or request a complimentary consultation to answer any remaining questions. If you'd like to move forward, just let us know and we will email you a link to complete a client portal for HIPAA-secure messaging, scheduling, and completion of basic forms. After the information has been submitted, we'll call you to schedule your first session.
What’s your philosophy?
Every client and family is our primary focus. Bluebird Music Therapy LLC takes a person-centered approach, valuing you as a whole person, with a unique story to tell, and someone who is more than just a diagnosis. We work with your current situation to help you meet your goals and needs, all while taking into account your unique life experiences and preferences.
Bluebird Music Therapy LLC believes everyone deserves to have meaningful experiences and access to support throughout life, including end of life. We are all in this together!