"Music therapy is the use of sounds and music within an evolving relationship between client/patient and therapist to support and develop physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual well-being." (The Handbook of Music Therapy, Bunt and Hoskyns, 2002)

Musical skills are not a prerequisite for referral to music therapy. In sessions both client and therapist use percussion instruments and their voices to build a unique musical relationship. The therapist supports the client's responses through improvised music or may play music to the client. Sometimes recorded music is used for listening. Music therapists, who are all state registered, work both individually and in small groups.