Music Therapy & Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or pervasive developmental disorders are terms used to diagnose a neurological condition that affects typical brain development. Three areas that are typically affected are speech and language skills, social interaction, and imagination. Music therapy is able to further develop social skills and enhance creativity through musical improvisation. It also addresses anxiety and other emotional needs an individual with ASD may have. This creative outlet provides space for self-expression and the opportunity to explore emotions. Music provides a non-verbal way of communication, which is engaging and easily accessible. Creating music through instruments and the voice allows those with ASD to build self-confidence, gain a sense of identity, increase interaction with others, as well as manage challenging behaviours. Our in house music therapist, Melissa Tan, was involved with a research project that examined the outcomes of musical interventions with school aged children with autism. The project led by Megha Sharda, PhD, looks specifically at the outcomes of social communication and brain connectivity. Click https://psyarxiv.com/2xnmv to read the full manuscript! For further information on how Music Therapy can help with Autism Spectrum Disorder, please book a free 15 minute consult with our Music Therapist, Melissa Tan.
