We have seen a real benefit from Olive having music therapy sessions, her therapist is kind, sensitive & responds really well to interpreting Olives moods in the sessions, she has kindly written about how she works with Olive so I can share this with you ………

I began Music Therapy sessions with Olive in January of this year. We meet weekly to sing and play instruments. Olive is supported by one of her parents, or her nanny, and sometimes her sister joins us. The focus of each session is on Olive and her needs and choices. We use the music to enable her to communicate, develop her skills and enjoy being with other people in a fun and relaxed way.

So far, I have learned that Olive enjoys moving to music and loves singing. She has some favourite songs, but like any toddler, is fascinated by new ones, particularly if they have actions. She enjoys reaching out to touch my guitar and drums, and can take turns with me. We often sit at the piano together, and if I give Olive plenty of time, she can direct our interaction by choosing when to reach out and make a sound. She likes loud, rhythmic music, but sometimes if she is feeling sleepy, she can relax to softer, improvised music. Olive has begun to use her voice in sessions and makes eye contact to show us her choices (e.g. whether to ‘stop’ or do ‘more’).

Much of what I invite Olive to do in sessions is informed by observing her movements, expressions and sounds carefully, and by sensing what her mood might be. There is no ‘agenda’, beyond supporting Olive to be all that she can be when she engages with music. We often use the same communication methods that Olive is encouraged to use elsewhere in her life (for example, signs and symbols), and we can reinforce learning from other times. However, the music therapy session allows Olive to simply ‘be’, and we feel that through creating this relaxed and fun space, she often shows us her skills and abilities.

Music therapy is principally about developing a trusting therapeutic relationship through music, which can then provide the safety and inspiration needed to experience change and growth. Music therapists are highly skilled and highly trained, and bring all their musical ability to bear to communicate with their clients, and enable them to express themselves. Music therapists understand developmental psychology, and often work alongside other professionals. All of these qualities make music therapy a crucial support to those with Rett.

I feel very privileged to work with Olive and her family at this time. I find it an uplifting and emotional experience to witness each step she takes to learn a new skill, or to make her choices heard. I believe that music therapy is an important addition to her support, and look forward to the next session!

Sally.