Laura Baker Services Association

 Click to view our  LBSA Music Therapy brochure 

What is music therapy?

Music therapy is the systematic, planned use of music for therapeutic purposes.    Using music as a nonthreatening, creative “tool”, clients can focus on developing physical, cognitive, emotional or social skills.   A  Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) designs a program that is centered around nonmusical objectives, through active music making, movement, singing, songwriting, lyric analysis, relaxation and/or other music therapy techniques. 

Why is music such an effective therapeutic tool?

Music is processed throughout the brain, stimulating cortical arousal.  The effects of music on the brain (and our behavior) is observable and measurable, yet perhaps even more important is the improvement seen in one’s quality of life.  People are able to associate with and respond to music in ways that they might not otherwise, regardless of their functioning level, age, or native language.    More information about music therapy can be found through the American Music Therapy Association. 

 What music therapy services do we offer our clients?

Music therapy is integrated into most areas that LBSA serves: 

• Laura Baker School
• Oak Street Services (on-site residential)
• Supported Living Services (off-site residential)
• SILS (Semi-Independent Living Services)

Individual and/or group music therapy objectives are documented, evaluated, and incorporated into an individual plan of care or education plan when appropriate.  Other group opportunities include the Laura Baker Choir, an integrated choir experience open to all LBSA clients and any interested community members.   We are also developing an Integrated Drumming Program, thanks to a generous grant from the Northfield Area Foundation.

What music therapy services do we offer the community?

Services are available for individuals and organizations on a contractual basis.  Those who may benefit from these services include (but are not limited to) people with:

• Alzheimer’s/dementia
• Chronic pain
• Developmental disabilities
• Learning disabilities
• Grief/loss issues
• Neurological disabilities (autism, traumatic brain injury, stroke, Parkinson’s, etc.)
• Palliative or end-of-life issues

Available Services:

• Individual music therapy
• Group music therapy
• Adaptive music lessons
• Developmentally based early childhood music programs
• Presentations/consulting
• HealthRhythms Drumming
• “Jam Camp!”  (a summer creative arts camp for children and youth with special needs)

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More about music therapy services for the community…

Individual Music Therapy

Individual music therapy can occur on or off-site.  A music therapy assessment will help to determine a person’s needs and strengths related to his/her health condition as well as musical preferences.  The music therapist will provide you with updates on goals.  Please contact us for current assessment and individual therapy fees.

Group Music Therapy

Music therapy groups are an option for organizations (long term care facilities, schools, etc.) or may be an option for a particular age group at LBSA.  Please contact us about these services and current fees.

Adaptive Music Lessons

Adaptive lessons offer children or adults with special health/wellness needs an opportunity to learn an instrument.  Modifications and adaptations are made as appropriate.  Please contact us for current fees.

JAM CAMP! 

 Jam Camp provides a group music therapy experience for children and teens throughout the community.  Designed for kids with developmental challenges, the day camp involves participants in fun, creative experiences while fostering communication, social, motor and academic/cognitive skills.  First held in 2006, it continues to grow, and is the only camp of its kind in the Northfield area. 

Our 2010 Jam Camp will be offered August 16-20.   For more information:  Jam Camp registration 2010

Laura Baker Choir

The Laura Baker Choir is a group comprised of adults with diverse abilities/disabilities, who enjoy singing.  The Choir is open not only to Laura Baker clients but to anyone in the community who would like to join (it’s free of charge, but participants are asked to purchase the choir uniform/polo shirt).  The group meets each Tuesday afternoon at Laura Baker Services to rehearse, and performs regularly throughout the Northfield area.  Please contact us for more information.

Click to view the choir’s  February choir schedule.

Developmentally Based Early Childhood Music Programs

Early childhood programs offer an opportunity to focus on social, cognitive/academic, language and physical skills through creative music making.  Your music therapist will also have the expertise to work with children with developmental disabilities, for a full integrated experience.  Please contact us for more information.

HealthRhythms Drumming

Drumming is a useful tool for stress management, teamwork, and even boosting the immune system!   Your music therapist is a  Health Rhythms  facilitator, using this evidence-based drumming program in various health and educational settings.

Presentations/Consulting

Presentations are available regarding music therapy as it relates to health, wellness, and educational needs.  Please call for more information.

For more information , please contact: