Autism Awareness

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Educating others about music therapy is my second favorite part of my job–the first, of course, being working with my clients!

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Shelly Brigman, a local developmental pediatrician, to discuss music therapy for her patients. She is  part of a local network of pediatricians who specialize in diagnosing and treating autism and as such ees a lot of children and parents who are just now receiving, or have just received, a new diagnosis of autism.

During our conversation, we talked about the confusion felt by many parents once they receive their diagnosis. While having a diagnosis is a relief for many, the next steps are influenced by doctor suggestions, observations of what other families are doing, and blind shots in the dark.The truth is that there are a variety of therapies that claim to impact the symptoms of autism, but no guide for how to decide which is right for you (or at all).

So, Dr. Brigman suggested, why not have a Music Therapy 101 for the Newly Diagnosed?

I loved this idea! Over the next two weeks, I will be answering the questions a newly diagnosed family need to ask about beginning music therapy as an early part of their child’s treatment.

August 25, 2011- Maximizing your Early Intervention Therapy Time

August 30, 2011- Music Therapy: Early Intervention’s Secret Weapon

September 1, 2011- Finding the Music Therapist for You

September 6, 2011- What You Should Be Getting From Your Music Therapist

I want to be able to answer any and all questions that this topic generates, so leave your questions and comments below, share on facebook, and retweet on twitter!

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