Lydia Zahra
Music Therapist & Lived Experience Mentor
BMus, Master of Music Therapy
Registered Music TherapistMusic therapy
Music therapy for adults and older people
Using music to support memory, mood, communication and connection.
About
What music therapy is
Music therapy is the planned use of music by a Registered Music Therapist to support a person’s health and wellbeing. No musical experience is needed. Sessions may include listening, singing, playing simple instruments, songwriting or moving to music, shaped around the person’s interests and goals.
Music therapy can help with
- Memory and orientation, including for people living with dementia
- Mood, anxiety and agitation
- Communication and connection with others
- Movement, relaxation and pain management
- Expressing feelings and reflecting on life
How it works
What to expect
- 01
Get in touch
Contact our intake team, or ask your provider or support coordinator to include music therapy in your plan.
- 02
First session
Your music therapist learns about you, the music you love and what you would like from sessions.
- 03
Regular sessions
Sessions in clinic or at home, individually or with a family member.
- 04
Review
Progress is reviewed with you, and with your family or provider if you would like.
Our team
Who you will see
Fees and funding
Paying for sessions
Music therapy sessions are $193.99. Music therapy can be funded through Support at Home where it is part of your care plan, and through NDIS plans. Some private health funds offer rebates.
Questions
Music therapy questions
Do I need to be musical?
No. Music therapy is about the person, not musical skill, and sessions are shaped around what you enjoy.
Can music therapy help people living with dementia?
Music therapy is widely used in dementia care to support mood, memory and connection. Your music therapist will tailor sessions to the person and their family.
Is music therapy covered by Support at Home?
It can be, where it is part of your agreed care plan. Talk with your Support at Home provider or care manager, who can confirm whether a contribution applies.
Can a family member join sessions?
Yes. Shared music-making can be a meaningful way to connect.
Wonderful Mind child & youth
Looking for support for a child or teenager?
Our sister service at wonderfulmind.com.au offers music therapy for children in Doreen and Craigieburn.
Not sure where to start?
Tell our intake team what is happening for you or the person you care for. We will talk through which service is the right fit.