Chiltern Music Therapy’s Shining Network of Champions

Since our foundation in 2011, Chiltern Music Therapy has been dedicated to improving health and wellbeing through musical expression. With client-led practices tailored to individual needs, Chiltern always puts people first, allowing them the creative space to explore feelings and work towards goals at a pace which suits them. We call this our “network of champions”, acknowledging that no two people’s needs are alike, celebrating the uniqueness and individuality which allows our HCPC-registered Music Therapists to learn more and grow with each case.

With music being one of the most recognisable and engaging forms of creative expression, Chiltern’s approach to therapeutic support applies to a highly diverse range of people regardless of age, gender, identity or ability. Our work in both individual and group sessions extends across community groups, healthcare, education and care home settings, supporting complex needs including: learning disabilities and neurological conditions, emotional and behavioural difficulties, neurodivergence, dementia and Alzheimer’s, and life-limiting conditions.

As an employee-owned organisation, we pride ourselves on honesty and accountability. We always assure our clients that no musical skills are required in order to engage and benefit from music therapy, and our inclusive techniques of rhythm, sound, interaction and solo exploration have shown meaningful results time and time again.

Since 2024, we have successfully run a music therapy service for the Neonatal Intensive Care at Whittington Hospital in North London. Our wonderful Therapist, Amanda, works closely with families, parents, and babies within the NICU, supporting early development, reducing parental anxiety and enhancing parent-baby interaction.

By taking the time to listen to the experiences and concerns of the parents, Amanda tailors sessions to meet each family’s unique needs. Activities range from playing music for their baby to hear for the first time, to collaboratively writing and recording personalised lullabies with the parent. The instinctive and mutual responses to music have effectively helped with soothing premature newborns, empowering parents and encouraging bonding during an emotionally difficult time.

Here are a few feedback quotes from parents and ward staff following the service:

“Such a lovely experience. Amanda was wonderful and kind and very positive, it was the first nice experience as a family me and my husband shared with our girls since they have been born.” – Parent

“We are grateful for Amanda composing a song which relates to our precious baby. The song helps us calm down amidst the challenging times.” – Parent

“I have observed the Music Therapist conducting a session with a parent in the Unit, and it was a very moving experience. Music therapy provides a beautiful opportunity for parents to express their emotions, bond with their baby, and even create personalised songs. It’s a powerful way to support both the parent and baby emotionally during their time in the Unit.” – Staff Nurse.

Creativity and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do at Chiltern Music Therapy, and as we continue to grow our knowledge and understanding, our shining network of champions grows right alongside us!