What is music therapy?

Music therapy is a research-based clinical practice that uses music interventions to help individuals improve emotional, cognitive, physical, and social well-being. It is conducted by professional and insured music therapists.

What populations do you serve?

I work with toddlers, children, pre-teens, and teenagers with disabilities, mental health concerns, or those receiving palliative care in the Kitchener-Waterloo and surrounding areas.

Do you offer in-home music therapy?

Yes, I provide personalized in-home music therapy sessions throughout the Kitchener-Waterloo and surrounding areas.

Is virtual music therapy available?

Yes. I also offer virtual music therapy sessions for children and youth who prefer or require online access to services.

Are sliding scale rates available?

Yes. Sliding scale pricing is available on a case-by-case basis to accommodate families with financial need. Please reach out to discuss options.

How can I get started?

You can visit http://www.tianip.ca/musictherapy or text 778-883-1437. Texting is preferred for faster response.

Music Therapy for Older Adults

In-person (Waterloo), virtual (across-Canada), in-home (KW and surrounding areas)

Tailored Service for a Fuller Life

Personalized Music Psychotherapy Services

Tian Ip offers tailored music psychotherapy for older adults, with one-on-one sessions customized to your music preferences, cultural background, and goals—such as relaxation, memory support, motor skills, emotional processing, or social connection.

Sessions are flexible (in-home in Kitchener-Waterloo or secure online video) and adaptable for neurological conditions like Parkinson's, stroke recovery, or Alzheimer's, focusing on cognition, motor control, mood, and communication.

We also provide specialized group programs, including Vivo PD—a comprehensive group music psychotherapy initiative for people with Parkinson's and their caregivers. It uses evidence-based techniques to improve gait/balance, cognition, speech/voice/breathing, emotional resilience, and social connection (adaptable for other conditions like stroke or Alzheimer's).

Benefits of Music Therapy for Older Adults

Music therapy offers multifaceted benefits for older adults, particularly in addressing common challenges associated with aging. By engaging the brain's neurological pathways, it promotes neuroplasticity and holistic well-being. Here are some key areas where music psychotherapy can make a significant impact, incorporating psychotherapeutic elements to support mental health:

Motor Skills

For older adults experiencing mobility issues, such as those with Parkinson's disease or post-stroke recovery, music therapy uses rhythmic auditory stimulation and music-based movement to improve gait, balance, and overall motor control. These interventions help synchronize movements, reduce stiffness, and enhance coordination, leading to greater independence and confidence in daily activities.

Cognitive Function

Music stimulates cognitive processes like memory recall, attention, and executive functioning. In conditions like Alzheimer's or general age-related cognitive decline, activities such as reminiscence through familiar songs can improve global cognition and autobiographical memory. This not only sharpens mental acuity but also provides a sense of continuity and identity.

Social Connection and Loneliness

Group or individual sessions foster social interaction, combating isolation and loneliness prevalent among older adults. Through shared musical experiences, participants build community, empathy, and a sense of belonging. Psychotherapeutic discussions integrated into sessions help process feelings of disconnection, strengthening relationships with family, caregivers, and peers.

Depression and Emotional Well-being

Music therapy addresses psychological symptoms like depression, anxiety, and agitation by activating the brain's limbic system, which regulates mood. Techniques such as guided imagery with music or expressive songwriting promote emotional resilience, reduce distress, and stabilize mood. As a form of psychotherapy, it allows for exploring underlying emotions, leading to improved mental health and a more positive outlook on life.

Other Benefits

Additional areas include speech and voice improvement through breathing exercises and vocal techniques, which can help with communication challenges. Overall, music therapy reduces stress, enhances sleep, and boosts self-esteem, making it a versatile tool for holistic care.

In-Home & Virtual Music Therapy Options

Offering in-home therapy services eliminates the stress of travel and delivers care in a setting where older adults already feel comfortable, increasing both accessibility and the effectiveness of each session.

Virtual music therapy sessions are also available for older adults who prefer or require remote access. These sessions are equally individualized and flexible to meet the older adult's needs wherever you are.

Insurance & Accessibility

Music psychotherapy services are generally covered by most extended health insurance plans. Clients are encouraged to check with their provider to confirm coverage and reimbursement options. Session rates may vary depending on location.

*Sliding scale rate can be offered on a case-by-case basis, please contact me to discuss options. Limited number of pro bono spaces are available to those not covered by insurance.

📞 Get Started Today

Embarking on music therapy is a meaningful step toward enhancing older adults' well-being. Contact me to schedule a music therapy assessment or to book a free 15 minute consultation. You can text me at 778 883 1437 if you have further questions.

Contact Me Today