Playnotes teams with child and adolescent behavioral health sites creates a safe and positive environment for clients to express themselves and develop their identities. Our music therapists work with these clients in individual or group sessions. We work together to determine the direction of the series based on the clients’ interests, strengths, and established goals. One intervention commonly used with this population is adaptive music lessons. We teach clients how to play instruments such as guitar or piano in an easy to understand way, which introduces appropriate learning and leisure skills. Another frequently used intervention is song composition. Clients can write original lyrics, create their own beats, and add instrumental tracks to create their own unique song. Some of our clients have performed their songs for other group members or staff members.

We collaborate with Familylinks, a nonprofit human service agency that exists to positively impact lives through integrated community, behavioral, and social programs, to provide Music Therapy services to children and adolescents with a variety of needs within a group home or shelter setting. Music Therapy can help promote:
 

• Self Esteem 

• Self Expression

• Coping skills

• Bonding between caregiver or staff