He Oro Waiora: Music Therapy and Wellbeing in Adolescent Mental Health

Share this post:

Nolan Hodgson - MMusTher, BA, NZ RMTh Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa New Zealand School of Music, Te Kōkī, Massey University and Victoria University of Wellington

Keywords: Music therapy, kaupapa Māori models of health, wairua (spirit), mental
health, taonga puoro (Māori musical instruments).

Abstract

This paper discusses the practice of music therapy in relation to kaupapa
Māori models of health and how these models articulate the means whereby
musical activities can address and support a person’s wairuatanga within
modern mental health practices. Contemporary international music therapy
theories that have extended from early medical and humanistic models to
embrace ecological and community orientations are also acknowledged.
The relationship between kaupapa Māori frameworks and these recent
music therapy concepts will be discussed with a particular focus on Durie’s
(1998) Te Whare Tapa Whā and Pere’s Te Wheke (1991). To complement
these, a link with indigenous understandings of well-being and music
therapy is provided through the writings of Kenny (2006) and a discussion
centring around uses of taonga puoro, traditional Māori musical
instruments.

Music Therapy has not only brought our daughter great improvements in motor planning, finger strength, communication and attention span, it has brought her great joy as well. There is no place she would rather be than in a room making music.

John and Emma - Hamilton, NZ

“Yesterday was one of the most rewarding when we had a visit from a Music Therapist. What a great experience. To see a whole group of residents joining in by either singing, requesting, conversing, or ‘playing’ an instrument was a very emotional experience. The communication between residents was great and it was obvious how well they responded…it was brilliant.”

Family Member - Hamilton, NZ

“We feel privileged to be part of these groups and to witness the transformation that these sessions bring about…extremely moving and powerful…Music Therapy is priceless”.

Staff Member

“Every time I come to the house, David is ready to get in the car and go to Music Therapy with Shari."

Support Person

"My family have been thrilled with Liz’s Music Therapy and her regular reporting. Mum has dementia however I have noticed improvements in her cognitive functioning since she started her sessions with Liz. I know Mum enjoys her music sessions. I have no hesitation in recommending Liz – she has been a huge support in the care of my mother."

Family Member

"Thanks Megan. This is all a slice of perfect in a very crazy crazy world. So very glad we have kept this going for A."

“Pip has vast knowledge on how to engage and get results from children in her Music Therapy sessions. Her lessons are motivating and targeted for each individual child. Pip finds the just-right blend between the much needed structure that anchors and regulates our students, while always leaving room for improvisation, exploration, and musical adventures co-created with the students. Her communication with the family and team that supports the child is second to none, taking an interest in using strategies that work within the school/home setting as well as sharing strategies that go well in each session”

Justine SENCO Newtown School

Get in touch

Click here to Contact Us, or

Email: info@musictherapy.org.nz

We're Social

Like us on Facebook

© Music Therapy New Zealand

Web Design by Digital Stream