Special Music, Inc.

Introduction: Since 2001, Special Music, Inc. (SM) is a center-based program that has been providing pediatric neurologic music therapy services for children ages 1-21 years old with autism, neurologic impairments and developmental disabilities. Beth Wiskus, MA, MT-BC, NMT Fellow leads the neurologic music therapy sessions. What is neurologic music therapy? A research-based practice, neurologic music therapy (NMT) utilizes rhythm and the therapeutic application of music to influence and potentially change the brain. NMT techniques are standardized and evidence-based through scientific and clinical research. Research has shown that when the brain is engaged in music, more neurons are firing at the same time throughout the brain. Therefore, more connections are being made and more neuropathways are created, which can improve brain function. What does SM offer? 1) Individual NMT sessions 2) Small group NMT sessions 3) MT social skills group sessions 4) Support, training, and education for families and community members 5) Presentations and in-services to school district personnel, clinicians, physicians, parent groups as well as at state, national and international conferences 6) Contract NMT services and consultations