Developmental Disabilities (Children/Teens/Adults)
What Music Therapy Can Help With
Our board-certified music therapists design sessions around your loved one’s strengths, interests, and needs. Whether your child is nonverbal, has high support needs, or is working on independence, we support meaningful progress across:
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Speech and communication
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Emotional regulation and expression
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Behavioral self-control
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Social engagement and play
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Sensory integration
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Motor coordination
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Cognitive skills and school readiness
Supporting communication, connection, and confidence—through music.
Supporting communication, connection, and confidence—through music.
We serve children, teens, and adults with:
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
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Down syndrome
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Intellectual disability (ID)
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Global developmental delay
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Sensory processing differences
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Multiple disabilities
Client-Centered Outcomes
Music therapy may help your child or loved one:
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Express needs or feelings using music, visuals, or assistive communication
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Reduce meltdowns or aggressive behaviors through self-regulation
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Increase joint attention, turn-taking, or imitation through musical play
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Engage in calming routines using predictable music structures
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Build motor planning and fine motor skills with instrument play
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Feel confident, capable, and joyful in a non-judgmental space
Sample Music Therapy Goals for
Developmental Disabilities
We create individualized plans in coordination with families, teachers, and therapists.
Sample goals include:
Communication & Expression
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Increase expressive communication (verbal or AAC) during song choices or call-and-response
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Improve receptive language through musical cueing and simple song instructions
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Develop emotional awareness by matching sounds to feelings or creating “emotion songs”
Behavioral and Sensory Regulation
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Use rhythm-based activities to practice waiting, transitions, or impulse control
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Engage in sensory-rich but structured music experiences (e.g., drumming, movement songs)
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Practice self-soothing techniques paired with music (deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, preferred songs)
Social and Relational
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Increase eye contact and turn-taking through dyadic or group music play
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Participate in cooperative activities with peers or caregivers (e.g., passing instruments, singing together)
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Strengthen relationships and reduce isolation through shared musical routines
Motor and Learning Support
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Improve fine motor skills (grasp, finger isolation) using small instruments
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Support gross motor coordination through dance, marching, or movement songs
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Reinforce academic concepts like colors, counting, or sequencing in song form
What to Expect in a Music Therapy Session
Every session is customized to your child’s learning style, sensory needs, and attention span.
Activities may include:
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Interactive hello and goodbye songs
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Instrument play with visual or physical supports
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Movement to music
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Songwriting or sound stories
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Visual schedules, break cards, and sensory tools as needed
We meet each individual where they are and grow from there—step by step, in a way that feels safe and fun.
Parent Partnership & Team Collaboration
We value you as a partner. We:
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Offer regular progress updates and share strategies that transfer to home
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Collaborate with IEP teams, SLPs, OTs, BCBAs, and other providers
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Adapt therapy approaches to match your family’s goals and values
FAQ: Music Therapy for Developmental Disabilities
Q: Do I need a referral to start music therapy? A: No referral is needed to begin. You can reach out directly to schedule a consultation. If you’re interested in using insurance or another funding source, we’ll help guide you through what’s needed. Learn more about funding options here (link to funding options in FAQs). Q: What happens in a session? A: Sessions are engaging, playful, and personalized. We use familiar songs, instruments, visuals, and singing to help your child meet goals in communication, behavior, motor skills, connection, and more. Parents may observe or participate, depending on age and setting. Q: My child is nonverbal or has high support needs. Will this still work? A: Yes. We regularly support clients who are nonspeaking, have limited mobility, or benefit from visual and sensory supports. Music offers a nonverbal way to connect, communicate, and grow. Q: Can music therapy be part of an IEP or supported by a Medicaid waiver? A: Medicaid does not currently reimburse for Music Therapy. However, Music Therapy is a related service and can be added to a child’s IEP if it is found to be a necessary support. We can help provide documentation or collaborate with your school team.
Let’s Get Started
Want to learn more about how music therapy can support your child’s growth and joy?
📅 Schedule a free consultation now
Or call us at (540) 384-1677
We’re here to help your child shine—in their own way, in their own rhythm.
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