Music Therapy
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses music, sound, and creative musical activities to support a person’s emotional, social, cognitive, physical, and communication needs. Led by a qualified music therapist, sessions are tailored to each individual and may include singing, playing instruments, listening to music, songwriting, improvisation, and musical games. You do not need to have any musical experience or ability to benefit from music therapy — music is simply used as a tool for connection, expression, development, and wellbeing.
Music therapy can benefit children, young people, and adults with a wide range of needs, including those experiencing anxiety or emotional difficulties, communication or social challenges, developmental or learning differences, disabilities, neurological or physical conditions, or memory difficulties. It can help build confidence and self-esteem, encourage communication and self-expression, develop social and emotional skills, support concentration and cognitive development, promote relaxation, and strengthen connections with others. Every session is personalised to the individual, creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where music can help people express themselves, connect with others, and reach their personal goals.
Katherine Mak (Music Therapist)
Katherine is a qualified music therapist who graduated from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. A skilled pianist, she also enjoys playing the guitar and brings a strong musical foundation to her therapeutic practice.
She has extensive clinical experience working with children from the age of four through to adults with complex needs, including genetic conditions, physical disabilities, and neurodiverse conditions that may impact development, communication, and wellbeing. Through her work, Katherine has supported children in developing their confidence, social communication, emotional expression, and ability to build meaningful relationships. She is passionate about helping each individual recognise and develop their strengths, and takes great pride in witnessing their progress over time.
Katherine’s therapeutic approach is person-centred, responsive, and creative. She provides a safe and supportive environment in which children can explore their emotions, develop their creativity, and communicate in ways that feel natural to them. For children who may find verbal communication challenging, music can provide an alternative and highly meaningful form of expression. Through instrumental improvisation, singing, sound-making, songwriting, and other creative musical activities, Katherine carefully listens and responds to each child, adapting sessions to their individual needs, interests, and therapeutic goals.
Her clinical experience includes working at the Child Development Centre at NHS Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, as well as delivering music therapy within two mainstream primary schools. These varied clinical settings have given her valuable experience in supporting children with diverse needs and have strengthened her commitment to using music as a therapeutic tool to promote communication, confidence, emotional wellbeing, and social development.
Katherine is passionate about making a positive and lasting difference to the lives of children and their families. Through music therapy, she aims to create a welcoming and supportive space where every child can be heard, understood, and encouraged to reach their individual potential.
