Today, we’re exploring the transformative power of music therapy with our guest, Samantha Foote, a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow and Positive Discipline Parent Educator. Samantha brings her expertise to support neurodivergent individuals and their families by blending creativity with therapeutic intervention. With her approach, she uses music not just as a tool for expression but as a dynamic medium to accomplish non-musical goals such as enhancing social skills, emotional regulation, and fostering positive behavior. Samantha explains how music therapy intersects with occupational, speech, and behavioral therapies, providing an approach that encourages cognitive engagement in neurodivergent individuals of all ages.

In this episode, Samantha shares her journey into music therapy, explaining how her passion for music and psychology led her to this unique field. She illustrates how music therapy can create opportunities for clients, and shares anecdotes of children and adults alike experiencing success. Whether it’s helping clients develop confidence, manage anxiety, or learn calming strategies, Samantha’s work demonstrates music’s ability to stimulate multiple parts of the brain. We’ll also hear about a typical session, from the range of music styles used to the ways her interventions adapt to each client's needs. Samantha even shares resources and programs for those who might not have access to formal music therapy.

Show Notes:

[2:32] - Samantha explains how she found herself in the unique field of music therapy, which for her was the perfect blend of music and psychology.

[3:45] - Music therapy is using music to accomplish non-musical goals, like building social and emotional skills. Music accesses many parts of your brain.

[5:40] - Especially for neurodivergent individuals, music is an excellent tool for stimulating cognitive function.

[6:53] - Samantha describes an example of a non-verbal student who receives music therapy to supplement speech therapy and his successes.

[8:46] - There are many ways that music has given students opportunities to do things they’ve never been able to do before.

[10:02] - Music therapy supports emotional regulation and flexible thinking.

[12:32] - Learning social skills through music is impactful, especially for neurodiverse individuals who struggle to understand social cues.

[15:40] - Samantha describes a typical session with clients and small groups, including what kinds of music she uses.

[17:32] - The interventions vary greatly per client and group.

[18:53] - Samantha also works with adults. Music therapy has helped clients with confidence struggles and anxiety.

[21:29] - There is a process for music therapists to follow to become board certified.

[22:57] - Samantha shares some programs and resources for those who don’t have access to music therapy.

[26:21] - Music helps learn calming strategies.

About Our Guest:

Samantha is a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow and leverages the power of music to support neurodivergent individuals. She is also a Positive, Discipline Parent Educator, providing parents and caregivers with positive, effective parenting strategies while raising their neurodivergent children. 

Connect with Samantha:

• Email: [email protected]

• Every Brain is Different Podcast

Links and Related Resources:

• Episode 29: How Art and Music Can Improve Mood, Decrease Anxiety, and Empower Today’s Youth with Dr. Brette Genzel-Derman

Connect with Us:

• Get on our Email List

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• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.