In the Studio: Creative Music Therapy with At-Risk Youth

In the Studio (ItS) is a specially designed music therapy program for youths "at risk." Music therapists specializing in ItS come from diverse backgrounds of music therapy education and training, focusing on youths at-risk. Therapists use a variety of musical styles such as hip/hop, rap, funk, reggae, rock, etc., in order to establish a therapeutic relationship with the participant/s. This program is aimed at helping youths develop trust, social skills and enhance their creativity through various means of musical involvement. By creating a non-judgmental, emotionally supportive therapeutic atmosphere, with clear boundaries that provide the participant with a sense of security, he/she can learn how to collaborate and negotiate while developing expressive freedom and creativity.

"This program is like a home to me. It's where I can relate to others about what I'm going through, and release all of my stress and frustration through writing or talking."

- Participant of ItS Program

Project Illumination

Within our ItS program is Project illumination. In Project Illumination, the participant/s and therapist develop a therapeutic relationship in the "recording studio," while creating and recording music. The therapist and participant/s engage in a process that facilitates reflection, insight, collaboration, negotiation, creativity and self expression in the context of a therapeutic relationship during the recording process.

Therapeutic Music Lessons

Participants can use their lesson in unique ways, such as talking about events in their lives; develop a musical skill, or writing songs about their lives. The goal is for each participant to get their needs met, feel safe, and be in control of their environment.

Therapeutic Music Listening

Participants are encouraged to bring their music into the group setting; group discussion is encouraged as to the content of the lyrics, the style of music and/or personal associations to the music. The goal is to have the participants express their thoughts and feeling about a song, discuss song themes, take turns in choosing songs to listen to, and tolerating musical likes and dislikes.

"If it wasn't for this program and the staff, I'd be hanging out in the streets on Friday nights."

- Participant of ItS