Helpful information
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about music therapy, referrals, who we support, how sessions work, training, and getting in touch with Northern Ireland Music Therapy Trust.
About Music Therapy
Answers to the most common questions about what music therapy is and how it works.
Music therapy is a clinical and evidence-informed form of therapy that uses music and the therapeutic relationship to support communication, emotional wellbeing, connection, confidence, and personal development.
No. You do not need any musical skill or experience. Music therapy is not about performance or talent. It is about using music in a therapeutic way that meets the person where they are.
Music therapy can support children, young people, adults, and older adults across many settings and needs, including emotional wellbeing, communication, neurodiversity, rehabilitation, dementia care, and more.
Music therapy has therapeutic aims rather than educational or performance goals. The focus is on the person’s needs, feelings, relationships, communication, and wellbeing, rather than learning an instrument or improving musical ability.
Accessing Support
Questions about referrals, who can enquire, and how support begins.
Sessions can be delivered one-to-one or in groups, depending on the person’s needs, the goals of the work, and the setting in which support is being delivered.
Sessions may take place in schools, healthcare settings, care environments, community spaces, or other appropriate locations depending on the service and referral context.
This varies. Some people may benefit from shorter-term support, while others may need longer-term input. The length of therapy depends on needs, goals, and setting.
This may depend on the type of support required and whether online delivery is suitable. Contact us directly and we can advise based on your circumstances.
Sessions & Delivery
Questions about how sessions are delivered and what people can expect.
Sessions can be delivered one-to-one or in groups, depending on the person’s needs, the goals of the work, and the setting in which support is being delivered.
Sessions may take place in schools, healthcare settings, care environments, community spaces, or other appropriate locations depending on the service and referral context.
This varies. Some people may benefit from shorter-term support, while others may need longer-term input. The length of therapy depends on needs, goals, and setting.
This may depend on the type of support required and whether online delivery is suitable. Contact us directly and we can advise based on your circumstances.
Training & Workshops
Questions about staff development, workshops, and professional training.
Yes. We offer training for schools to support understanding of music therapy, emotional wellbeing, communication, inclusive practice, and related topics.
Yes. We can provide training for healthcare professionals and teams, tailored to the needs of the service, staff group, and clinical context.
Yes. Workshops and programmes can be adapted to suit your audience, aims, organisational setting, and the themes you want to focus on.
About the Organisation
Questions about standards, staff, and how the organisation works.
Yes. Music therapy is delivered by trained professionals. You can also learn more about qualifications, standards, and staff expertise by checking our Professional Standards page.
Yes. Our team and profile pages help introduce the people behind the work, including their background, expertise, and areas of interest.
Get in touch with us directly. We’ll be happy to answer your question and point you toward the most relevant information.
Still have a question?
If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Want to learn more?
Learn more about the different ways music therapy can support people, organisations, and settings.