Autism

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Jamal, when he was a child, is playing the xylophone in a music room

Jamal’s story

Jamal has autism, and was 5 years-old when he attended his first music therapy session. He's now 19 years-old, and music therapy has transformed his life.

A child holds a beater above a xylophone instrument atop a table.

Jada is sixteen, and has Down Syndrome and is autistic. Music therapy sessions offered a safe space where she could express herself freely - helping to support her emotional regulation and concentration, as well as her motivation to engage in other things.

A person reaches out their hand to play music on a drum, which sits in a room full of musical instruments

Luke’s story

Luke is autistic, and he sometimes finds it hard to maintain focus and to remember things. Music therapy helps him express himself creatively, experience a sense of flow and familiarity, and where his music-making is always affirmed and celebrated.

A young person looks at the drums in a musical instrument cupboard, deciding which one they should choose

Fernando’s story

Fernando moved from Portugal to the UK, where he began attending a local Special Educational Needs (SEN) school. Music became his creative outlet, supporting him through this time of lots of change.

Rosa and her music therapist Jenny play the guitar together

Rosa’s story

Rosa is autistic and can suffer from severe anxiety, which makes it difficult to participate at school. Music therapy helped her to flourish, and unlocked a passion for performing.

Freddie’s story

Music therapy helped Freddie, who is autistic and has ADHD, to grow in confidence, both in his musical abilities and in himself.

Ruby’s story

Aged only 14, Ruby was sectioned under the Mental Health Act. Life was still really difficult after being discharged, and music therapy therapy gave her a safe space, when she needed it most.

Alfie’s story

Music therapy has helped nine-year-old Alfie, who is autistic, to find ways to work collectively with others.

A young client sits down to play music on the piano as they take part in music therapy at one of our partner organisations

Lucas’ story

Music therapy provides a safe space for Lucas, who has autism and ADHD, to express himself and connect with others.

Harvey holds a tambourine during a music therapy session

Harvey’s story

Harvey is autistic, and has ADHD and sensory issues. Music therapy has helped to give him a voice, and a space for him to be himself.

Smiling Romano leans forward in his chair as he looks towards his music therapist during a music therapy session.

Romano’s story

At age six, Romano began music therapy. Through music, Romano was given the chance to express himself, opening up a world of possibility.

Patsy takes part in music therapy, holding a drumstick as music therapist Harriet is plays the piano

Patsy’s Story

Music therapy has helped Patsy, who has autism, find new ways to communicate and express herself without words.

Enable Glasgow

Enable Glasgow is a supported living service for adults. It provides support to 22 residents with learning disabilities, dementia and autism.

During a music therapy session, a music therapist sits down to play music on an acoustic guitar

Parkstone Connect Day Centre

Parkstone Connect Day Centre is a day service for adults in the local community with a wide range of support needs. Its aim is to improve lives and build independence by promoting an inclusive and empowering environment.

A music therapist plays the electronic keyboard in the foreground, with a child client playing a xylophone in the background.

Wargrave House School and College

At Wargrave House School and College, support is given to autistic individuals aged from five to 25 years old.