Inside a Music Therapy Session: What Actually Happens and Why It Works

Written By Lauren Pullen

Walking into your first music therapy session can be exciting and maybe a little uncertain. Will we be singing? Playing drums? Just listening to music? At Songbird Music Therapy, we often hear questions like:

"What actually happens in a session?"
"Do I have to perform?"
"Is this like a music lesson?"

Spoiler alert: It’s not a performance. It’s not a lesson. It’s something much more personalized, flexible, and supportive.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what really happens in a music therapy session and why it works.

Step 1: Check-In and Connection

We begin every session by grounding in the moment. This could be:

  • A verbal check-in like "How are you feeling today?"

  • A musical check-in using instruments or sound choices

  • A familiar song that helps with transitioning into the session

This gives the therapist insight into how the client is arriving emotionally, physically, and cognitively, and it sets the tone for the rest of the session.

Why it works: Clients feel seen, heard, and safe. This builds trust and allows for more meaningful engagement.

Step 2: Active Music Engagement

This is the heart of the session and it varies based on the client’s goals. Common activities include:

  • Instrument play such as drums, shakers, piano, and more to support motor skills, attention, and expression

  • Singing or vocalizing to support speech, breathing, or mood regulation

  • Call-and-response songs to build turn-taking, listening, and social interaction

  • Musical games for cognitive flexibility and fun

  • Improvisation where the client and therapist create music in the moment, often reflecting emotions or shared themes

Why it works: Music stimulates multiple areas of the brain at the same time. Clients often express themselves musically in ways they might not be able to with words.

Step 3: Creative Expression

For some clients, songwriting or themed playlists are part of the process. This could look like:

  • Writing simple lyrics to a familiar melody

  • Creating a playlist for a specific mood or life experience

  • Using songwriting to explore identity or tell a personal story

Why it works: Creating something meaningful helps clients explore emotions, build self-esteem, and reflect in a tangible way.

Step 4: Reflection and Cool Down

We close sessions with intentional transitions. This might involve:

  • A slower, calming song

  • Gentle instrumental play

  • A conversation about how the session felt

  • Repeating a musical cue that signals the end of the session

Why it works: Structure supports emotional regulation and helps the client return to their day with a sense of closure and clarity.

Every Session Is Unique

At Songbird Music Therapy, we tailor each session to the individual’s:

  • Goals, whether emotional, cognitive, motor, or social

  • Preferences, including musical style and comfort with instruments

  • Energy and mood in the moment

You won’t find a one-size-fits-all approach here. Instead, we offer person-centered, music-based experiences that grow and evolve with the client.

Want to See If It’s the Right Fit?

We offer in-home and facility-based services throughout the Jacksonville, Florida area. We would be happy to talk with you about what music therapy might look like for you or someone you care about

Lauren Pullen