In the school setting, music therapy is not adapted music education, but instead a service that targets NON-musical goals such as the cognitive, social, communication, or physical goals one would find on an IEP. As any other related service, music therapy is only provided when necessary, after an assessment is performed by a board certified music therapist. The music therapist then uses their training as musicians, clinicians, and researchers to affect change in non-musical domains.
How does music therapy benefit education?
- Music captivates and maintains attention
- Music stimulates and utilizes many parts of the brain
- Music is easily adapted and can be reflective of a student’s ability
- Music provides a meaningful and enjoyable context for repetition
- Music provides a safe and structured setting for verbal and nonverbal communication
- Music is an effective memory aid
- Music supports and encourages movement
- Music -and the related silence- provides non-verbal, immediate feedback
- Music is success-oriented. People of all ability can participate!
Important Considerations
- Music therapy is recognized by IDEA as a related service.
- Music therapy is only provided when deemed necessary after an thorough assessment.
- Music therapy is considered on a case by case basis.
- As a member of the student’s team, the music therapist provides expertise, supports and relates strategies that all members of the student’s team can implement to overall help the student succeed.
Milestones & Music is currently contracted with Marion and Harrison Counties to provide IEP-based services. Though we are not currently involved, we are willing to provide advocacy for IEP services in Taylor and Barbour county as well. We also provide music therapy enrichment in the Doddridge County school system and professional development opportunities for teachers in WV throughout the year.
Milestones & Music 