Music Therapy

Music Therapy is based on the understanding that everyone can respond, enjoy and communicate through music.  Music is non-verbal which means that sometimes music therapists are the first point of call in accessing someone's expression and true selves. Music Therapy is an evidence-based, clinical profession allied to medicine. The aim is to support each individual towards greater well-being and quality of life through the therapeutic use of music.

​In Music Therapy, the therapist and client establish a musical relationship in which they are free to explore, express and communicate within a safe and supportive environment. The therapist uses their instrumental and therapeutic skills to hold a direct and meaningful interaction with the client and is guided by the client to create music which communicates directly with their music and dynamic.  

Holding this musical conversation can tell us so much about how someone relates to others around them and allows their inner selves to shine through.

Music Therapy can address a variety of needs that can also be addressed through psychotherapy, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy. The goals are determined through a careful assessment process and developed in conjunction with the client themselves, parents, carers and observations of sessions.

Jessica Harris 

Senior Music Therapist MMUS RCM MMT UL

Jessica’s career began as a musician studying at the Royal Irish Academy of Music and she has performed throughout Ireland and the U.K. with orchestras and ensembles such as the National Symphony and National Concert Orchestras of Ireland.  

Her love for connecting with and supporting people of all ages and abilities then led her to music therapy and in 2010 She completed her Masters in Music Therapy at UL.  Following graduation she began work with Music Therapy Ireland and has since continued to work privately.  

She has provided music therapy to clients across a wide range of populations and ages including within Autism Initiatives Ireland, Bloomfield Health Services, the Central Remedial Clinic and Lois Bridges.  

Jessica has been delighted to return to the RIAM to coordinate, develop and deliver music therapy.  As such, she is adept at blending and working within a multi-disciplinary team and has introduced and developed music therapy services as being of integral value towards wellbeing.  

Her approach is person-centred and psychodynamic, supporting and meeting HIQUA standards. She is passionate and committed to providing opportunities for change, hope and joy.