Do you like to listen to music? Perhaps you have a favourite song that makes you feel calm, sad, happy, or even inspired.
We love music at Eben Mission, and we know that it has the power to affect our emotions and even the way our brains work!
We’re talking about music therapy and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) this week.
The universal language
Music is sometimes referred to as the universal language because even if we don’t understand the lyrics, we can still hear and feel the chords and notes.
Also, the way the notes are put together in a song can often elicit an emotional response.
Music can help children meet their early developmental milestones by increasing gross motor, fine motor, cognitive, vestibular, language, emotional, and social skills development.
Adults can find music therapy an enjoyable and relaxing leisure activity that allows them to connect with others, acquire confidence, organise their time, and learn new skills. Learning an instrument, drumming, dancing & creative movement, art & music activities, songwriting & music improvisation, and relaxation training are all examples of music-based activities that can be included in music therapy sessions.
These are just a few of the reasons why music is such an effective therapeutic tool for helping individuals enrich their lives in various ways.
Music therapy programs
A registered music therapist (RMT) is a musician who has completed university-level training to understand how music can be utilised to improve people’s health, functioning, and well-being.
Music therapy programs can help persons with disabilities in a variety of ways.
Behavioural needs
Cognitive needs
Communication needs
Mobility and motor skills needs
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and music therapy
Like physiotherapy, speech therapy, and many other allied health services, music therapy is covered under the NDIS.
It belongs to the Capacity Building Supports (Improved Daily Living) support category.
If you have, you may choose to utilise all or part of your therapeutic support or group therapy support funds for music therapy.
The NDIS does not fund non-therapeutic music teachers or other entertainment-based musical activities.
Music Therapy Programs for those living with a disability
Music therapy is one of the programs under Ebenezer Mission, the leading NDIS registered provider in Burwood, and part of their Social Enterprise Project. Our music therapy programs and various NDIS group activities are open to those living with a disability, their families, and the wider community (with a fee).
We have qualified teachers who conduct private music lessons and help build an individual’s confidence and skill level. Contact us to determine how music therapy may suit you.
