Kāpiti Music Therapy
Susannah Tierney · Founder & Registered Music Therapist · Kāpiti Coast
Person-centred music therapy for children, adults and older people, offered both individually and in groups.
Who it’s for · What I offer
Music therapy across the lifespan
For children and young people, adults and older people, with sessions shaped around the person, their strengths and their goals.
Who I work with
- Neurodivergent children and young people, including those with neuromotor and other developmental disabilities
- Adults with intellectual and other disabilities
- People in inpatient, post-discharge and community mental health settings
- Older adults, including hospital-level and dementia care
- Community groups and organisations
Individual, group and community music therapy
Referrals are welcome, but you don’t need a referral or a diagnosis to get in touch. You’re welcome to enquire directly to talk about whether music therapy might be a good fit for you or someone you support.
What is music therapy?
Music therapy is an evidence-based allied health profession that uses music within a therapeutic relationship to support health, development and wellbeing.
A therapeutic use of music
Unlike music lessons, there is no expectation to be musical or to know how to play an instrument. Music is used purposefully within sessions to connect, communicate, express emotions, develop skills and build on each person’s strengths.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, Registered Music Therapists must hold a Master of Music Therapy, or an equivalent overseas qualification, and be registered with the New Zealand Music Therapy Registration Board, ensuring they meet professional standards and a Code of Ethics.
Working towards personal goals
Depending on the person and their goals, music therapy may support areas such as communication and social connection, emotional expression and regulation, attention and learning, movement and motor skills, memory and cognitive engagement, identity, confidence, and overall wellbeing.
For older adults and people living with dementia, music therapy may also provide opportunities for reminiscence, connection, orientation and meaningful engagement.
Sessions may include
- Exploring and playing instruments
- Musical improvisation
- Songwriting
- Listening to music
- Movement to music
- Singing
- Relaxation and music-based mindfulness
- Conversation and reflection
About
About Me
Kia ora! I’m Susannah, founder of Kāpiti Music Therapy, based in Raumati South on the Kāpiti Coast. I am a Registered Music Therapist (NZ RMTh) and hold NZ Child Safety Certification to work with children with high and complex needs. I hold a Master of Music Therapy with First Class Honours, with research exploring trauma-informed songwriting in acute adult inpatient mental health. I have over 10 years’ experience in the non-profit sector, including community music therapy and work with a children’s music charity supporting young people with disabilities. This background continues to shape the collaborative and inclusive way I work.
I was drawn to music therapy because of the place music already has in our lives. It can move us to tears, bring us joy, help us feel connected and express things that can be difficult to put into words. I love that music therapy draws on this very human experience of music and uses it intentionally within a therapeutic relationship.
My approach is relational, person-centred, strengths-based, neuro-affirming and trauma-informed. I enjoy getting to know each person, what matters to them, and finding ways to use music together that build on their interests, strengths and ways of communicating. My practice is guided by culturally responsive principles and a holistic understanding of wellbeing informed by Te Whare Tapa Whā. With consent, I can also work alongside whānau and other professionals, bringing music therapy into the wider picture of each person’s life and support.
NZ RMTh · MMusTh (Hons) · BA (Psychology)
I look forward to connecting with you!
Frequently asked questions
Do I need musical experience?
No, not at all. In music therapy, music is a way of working towards therapeutic goals; being “good at music” isn’t the goal. You don’t need any musical experience or ability to take part.
What happens in a session?
We might play instruments, write songs, improvise, listen to music, move or take time to reflect. What we do, and the pace we work at, depends on the person, their interests and their goals.
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions may take place in a private studio or in homes, schools, aged-care facilities, hospitals and other community or healthcare settings. We can talk about what might work best for you, your group or your service when you get in touch.
What if my child uses few or no spoken words?
Your child doesn’t need spoken words to take part. Sessions can draw on sounds, gestures, movement, instruments, communication technology and some NZSL, building on and responding to the ways your child already communicates.
Can you work alongside other therapists?
Yes. With your consent, I can work alongside your therapists, teachers, support workers or healthcare team, sharing ideas and working together to support you or the person you’re supporting.
How long are sessions?
Individual sessions are typically 30 minutes, and group sessions are typically 45 minutes. Session length can be adapted to suit the person or group.
How do I know whether music therapy is a good fit?
Get in touch and we can talk about what you’re looking for and whether music therapy might be a good fit. If you decide to go ahead, we can begin with a five-session assessment to explore strengths, goals and responses to music therapy. I’ll then share a written report and we can discuss next steps together. There’s no obligation to continue.
Can whānau or support people be involved?
Yes, if you’d like them involved and it feels helpful. We can talk together about what that might look like and what works best for you.
How much does music therapy cost?
Individual music therapy sessions start from $110 for a 30-minute session. Group and organisational rates vary depending on the setting and what is required. Some people may be eligible for funding that can cover or contribute towards music therapy sessions. Please get in touch if you'd like to discuss costs, funding options, or what might suit your situation.
Contact
Thinking about music therapy?
You’re welcome to get in touch by phone, email or the enquiry form below to discuss what you’re looking for and whether music therapy might be a good fit. No referral or diagnosis is needed to enquire.