The goal areas in music therapy are communication, academic, motoric, emotional, social (or CAMES). Determining the client’s response to music and their musical skills and preferences is also considered when creating an individualized music therapy intervention plan. When assessing children for communication they observe if they're verbal or non verbal, use one word only, short or long phrases, sign language, etc. Assessing academic areas include things such as recognizing colours, numbers, letters, reading, etc. When assessing motoric I'm looking at both their fine and gross motor ability - can they walk, run, jump, spin, their balance, do they walk on their whole foot ( for example kids with autism sometimes walk on their toes), fine motor - can they use mallets with both hands equally, play with both hands at the same time, alternate hands, cross their hands across their body. Emotional is more for older children but can include do they recognize emotions in themselves and other people, express emotion, aware of the presence of others. Social goal areas do they work well in a group, share, take turns, etc. In the nursing home, an assessment is less intensive, more personal. It's more getting to know the resident, what kind of music they like, past musical experiences, family life, etc.
When a Music Therapist receives a referral the first step is to meet and assess the client, obtain a case history, and the create therapy goals and objectives. The Music Therapy assessment for Emotionally Disturbed children is often administered to children with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, affective/mood disorders, autism, anxiety disorders and attachment disorders. An initial assessment helps Music Therapists plan the client’s treatment process and also establishes credibility through accountability, as re-assessments can measure change over time.
When a Music Therapist receives a referral the first step is to meet and assess the client, obtain a case history, and the create therapy goals and objectives. The Music Therapy assessment for Emotionally Disturbed children is often administered to children with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, affective/mood disorders, autism, anxiety disorders and attachment disorders. An initial assessment helps Music Therapists plan the client’s treatment process and also establishes credibility through accountability, as re-assessments can measure change over time.