What is Music Therapy?
Music Therapy is a clinical and evidence-based practice that utilises the universal language of music to enhance emotional, mental, and physical well-being, tailored to individualised goals within a therapeutic relationship.
In Music Therapy, the focus is on the 'therapy' rather than solely on the 'music'. Music serves as a medium for developing and exploring the client-therapist relationship. Within this authentic, confidential, and non-judgmental setting, we can address your deepest concerns, relationships, challenges, and triumphs in a safe, productive, and creative manner.
Proficiency in music is not required to benefit from music therapy. Various musical styles, instruments, and activities can be incorporated. Sessions might include:
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Improvising live music
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Songwriting/Lyric writing
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Recording/Producing music using electronic music software and hardware
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Talking about music
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Mindful listening to music
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Guided meditations with musical accompaniment
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Using art materials
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Dancing, singing, screaming, or sitting in silence
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No music at all, and only talking
Music Therapy is facilitated by a registered professional who has completed an
approved, post-graduate Music Therapy training programme. In the United Kingdom,
Music Therapists must be registered with the Health & Care Professions Council,
and most are also members of the British Association for Music Therapy.
Gavriel has experience working as a Music Therapist for the NHS in adult inpatient psychiatric settings. Since 2018, he has been running workshops and classes in schools and community centres for young people from underprivileged backgrounds and adults with learning disabilities and mental health issues. In 2023, Gavriel conducted research entitled ‘Music Therapy for Music Students: Using Music Therapy to Support University Music Students’ Mental Wellbeing.’
He currently works as a Music Therapist for West London NHS where he runs music therapy groups for adults with severe mental illness. Gavriel has also presented papers at conferences and runs experiential workshops on music therapy education. His approach is psychodynamic and person-centred.
