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About us

Whole Step CIC was established in 2015 in Reading for the purpose of promoting the benefits of Music Therapy to the local community and expanding the availability of Music Therapy services across the borough. As a non-profit organisation, our mission is to provide affordable therapy to all people in need of our services.

We now work across Reading, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Hampshire, to offer music therapy to a range of client groups. We work with disability organisations, carers’ groups, social services, adoption agencies, residential and care homes, and the voluntary sector, as well as with individuals.

We see our clients in a range of settings such as schools, residential homes, and care homes. We also have two dedicated music therapy spaces located in Reading and Wokingham.

About Music Therapy

Music therapy is a recognised health profession in the UK and in many countries worldwide. All UK therapists are educated at a master’s level and are certified with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Our therapists are required to have enhanced DBS (criminal record) checks, personal indemnity insurance, and targeted safeguarding training.

To learn more about our Music Therapy Services for Children and families and for Adults go here:
Children Adults

Music Therapy FAQ

Why choose Music Therapy?

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It is a psychological creative therapy that promotes verbal and non-verbal communication and supports social and emotional development.

Who can be referred?

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People with…

  • Special Needs (autism, learning difficulties, physical disability)
  • Social and emotional difficulties, such as trauma and attachment issues
  • Communication issues, such as select mutism
  • Looked-after and adopted children and their carers.

What happens in a session?

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Music Therapy is offered to individuals or in small groups of up to four people. Sessions can be 30–45 minutes long, depending on the client’s needs.

Here are some things you can expect to happen in a Music Therapy session:

  • Spontaneous music-making
  • Singing
  • Using easily-accessible instruments
  • Music-based activities
  • Play-based activities (e.g. using puppets) in children’s therapy
  • Social activities.

What if I don’t know anything about music?

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The therapist is a trained musician and will use music to facilitate the sessions, but the clients do not need any musical experience.

Music uses the same techniques that we use everyday for building relationships - listening, watching, turn-taking, and sharing.

That’s why people of all ages and abilities can make music!

How can it help?

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Music Therapy can have a positive impact on:

  • Communication, language, and self-expression
  • Focus and attention
  • Social skills and social interaction
  • Play and creativity
  • Mental wellbeing.

Who can refer into your service?

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We accept referrals from:

  • Self-referrals
  • Schools
  • Social Workers
  • Health Visitors
  • GPs
  • Care homes
  • Other health professionals
  • Community and charitable organisations.

What is your referral process?

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Please contact us if you would like to make a referral. You will receive a free, 20-minute telephone consultation with the Music Therapy Manager, and we will then send you all the necessary paperwork to proceed. In most instances, we will offer you an assessment period of 5 weeks to see how the client engages with the therapy, after which you can sign up for blocks of 10 or more sessions.

Most clients attend Music Therapy for 15–30 sessions, depending on their needs.

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