Kent Music Therapy
Clinical music therapy service working in Canterbury and East Kent, offering individual and group music therapy sessions, clinical supervision and bespoke workshops and events. HCPC-registered and BAMT-affiliated music therapist providing evidence-based music therapy interventions for children and adults with a range of needs.
Location: Canterbury, Kent
Areas covered: Canterbury, East Kent, Thanet, Herne Bay
About Creative Therapy Services
Creative therapies, including music therapy, art therapy, and drama therapy, use artistic media as the primary means of communication and therapeutic engagement. These are clinical interventions delivered by HCPC-registered therapists who have completed specialist postgraduate training. Creative therapies are not the same as arts and crafts activities or music lessons; they are structured therapeutic approaches with clear clinical goals.
For children with SEND, creative therapies can be particularly effective because they do not rely on verbal communication. Music therapy, for example, can support autistic children with social interaction, emotional expression, and communication development. Art therapy can help children process difficult emotions and experiences when words are not enough. These approaches can complement speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support.
Sessions are tailored to the individual child and may take place one-to-one or in small groups. The therapist uses musical instruments, art materials, or drama techniques to build a therapeutic relationship and work towards agreed goals. Progress is regularly reviewed and shared with parents and other professionals involved in the child's care.
Areas Served
- Canterbury
- East Kent
- Thanet
- Herne Bay
Specialisms
- autism -- Assessment, diagnosis and support for autistic children and young people
- learning disabilities -- Support for children with learning disabilities
- communication difficulties -- Assessment and support for a range of communication challenges
- emotional difficulties -- Therapeutic support for children experiencing emotional difficulties
- music therapy -- Clinical music therapy delivered by HCPC-registered practitioners
Before Your First Appointment
To get the most from your initial consultation, here are some things to consider:
- Bring relevant documents -- gather any previous reports (e.g. from school, NHS, or other professionals), letters from your child's SENCO, and any diary notes you have kept about your child's development or behaviour.
- Know what to expect -- most first appointments involve an initial assessment or consultation. The professional will want to understand your child's history, current difficulties, and what you hope to achieve. A written report with recommendations typically follows.
- Prepare your child -- explain in age-appropriate terms that they are going to meet someone who will play with them or talk to them, and that this person is there to help. Reassure them that it is not a test they can fail.
- Questions to consider asking -- How long is the assessment process? What will the report include? How many sessions might be needed? Can you provide strategies for home and school? What are the costs and are there any funding options available?
Helpful Resources
These SENDPath guides may be useful as you explore your options:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my child need musical or artistic ability to benefit from creative therapy?
No. Creative therapies such as music therapy and art therapy do not require any prior skills, talent, or training. The focus is on the therapeutic process, not on producing a finished piece of music or artwork. The therapist creates a welcoming environment where every child can participate and benefit regardless of ability.
Is creative therapy evidence-based?
Yes. Music therapy and art therapy are recognised by the NHS and NICE as evidence-based interventions. Music therapists and art therapists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and have completed specialist postgraduate training. Research supports their effectiveness for a range of conditions including autism, learning disabilities, and emotional difficulties.
Can creative therapy be included in an EHCP?
Yes. Creative therapies such as music therapy can be specified in an EHCP as educational or health provision, depending on the goals. An HCPC-registered creative therapist can provide reports and evidence to support an EHCP application, demonstrating how creative therapy addresses the child's identified needs.
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