Music Therapy
Music Therapy
Our group music therapy programme aims to support trauma-affected adults in experiencing, identifying, processing their emotions, establishing and developing coping techniques, and enhancing their emotional and nervous system regulation.We focus on creating a safe and inclusive space where participants can engage in music-led activities designed to promote self-expression, interpersonal connection, and emotional resilience.
Sessions are tailored using a trauma-centred approach, promoting physical activity, emotional and psychological safety, encouraging self-empowerment, and fostering a sense of agency through the exploration of creativity.
A resource booklet provides supportive didactic material to accompany participants outside of therapy.
Music Therapy Programme Goals
- Emotional Regulation: Help participants recognize, process, and regulate emotions using music-led interventions.
- Trauma Processing: Provide a non-verbal and verbal medium to explore and express personal challenges safely.
- Interpersonal Connection: Build trust and foster healthy relationships within the group.
- Empowerment and Resilience: Promote self-empowerment and resilience by developing coping strategies through music-making.
- Nervous System Regulation and Mind-Body Integration: Reconnect participants with their bodies through music and rhythm, helping them ground themselves and manage somatic symptoms of trauma by recognising, identifying and acknowledging physiological symptoms and successfully implementing regulation techniques.
Keen to learn more?
Our music therapy counsellor
Carlos Riegalhaupt
Kia ora, I am a NZ Registered Music Therapist with experience working in corrections, addictions recovery, and inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings. I have a background in culinary arts, woodworking, permaculture, making musical instruments, live music performances, and community music events. I love nature, gardening, live music, and any creative expression.
As a therapist, my clinical work centers on supporting people who experience psychological, mental/emotional, behavioral, physiological, or neurological challenges. In my work I strive to provide culturally sensitive care to assist people in our communities in a way that is inclusive to all. I bring a non-judgmental, curious and compassionate presence to support the therapeutic needs and well-being of the participants and their whānau. My approach is collaborative, strength-based, values-driven, experiential, empathetic, and playful in the true sense of ‘playing with music’. I believe that highlighting the participants’ strengths while considering their cultural and personal values can strengthen the therapeutic alliance and support achieving therapeutic goals. I follow a humanistic approach to therapy, which emphasizes warmth, authenticity, humor, and appreciation for the uniqueness of every individual.
I am trained in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT) with MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) and IPI (Integrative Psychiatry Institute) in Boulder, Colorado. I have also trained in the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, serving as a foundational framework for the use of music as a tool for the exploration of consciousness and healing. I have a particular interest in the intersection of music, music technology, and exploring ways to enhance the power of music as a psychotherapeutic adjuvant in PAT.
I feel fortunate to be able to use music as a tool to support people in our communities. I am passionate about exploring creative ways of using music to facilitate therapeutic processes and foster well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be musical to benefit from Music Therapy?
No. Music Therapy is for everyone, regardless of musical experience or ability. The focus is on using music as a therapeutic tool to support your wellbeing, not on learning an instrument or performing.
What happens during a Music Therapy session?
Every session is tailored to your individual needs and goals. Activities may include listening to music, singing, playing instruments, songwriting, movement, or guided musical experiences, depending on what feels most comfortable and beneficial for you.
Who can benefit from Music Therapy?
Music Therapy can support children, young people, adults, and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress, neurological conditions, developmental differences, or significant life changes. It can also be beneficial for anyone looking to improve their emotional wellbeing and quality of life.
How can Music Therapy support mental health and wellbeing?
Music has a unique ability to support emotional expression, reduce stress, improve communication, strengthen relationships, and promote relaxation. Working with a qualified Music Therapist can help you develop coping strategies, build resilience, and explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
Referrals
We welcome referrals from professionals in health and social services.
We are happy to collaborate with you on care with your client’s consent.
To make a direct referral, please gain your client’s consent,
then submit a referral below.
Alternatively, if you would like to find out more about us first,
you can submit an enquiry.