The Creative Arts Therapy Program is an inclusion program which provides music and art therapy services for young people aged 3 to 16 years old who have developmental disabilities including autism. Music and Art Therapy groups are held on Wednesday and Friday afternoons between the hours of 4:15 and 6:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 11-12:30 pm. Each program day consists of 45 minutes of Art Therapy, and 45 minutes of Music Therapy. The program runs from September through June. The program is staffed by a music therapist, art therapist, supervisor, and music and art therapy interns.
For More Information on our Community Services Programs, Please Contact:

Anna Trent
(516) 741-9000 • ext. 267
atrent@lifesworc.org
Music Therapy is the use and manipulation of sound and music to evoke a response from the individual receiving the therapy. It is a creative process which encourages positive growth and change. The program is managed by a therapist who designs the therapy to address the needs of the participating youngster. A music therapy session creates a playful and safe setting where the youngsters can explore a connection to the stimulation created by the music. The music or musical activity usually includes listening, singing, composing, playing instruments, and dancing to the stories conveyed in music. This free expression enables the youngsters to better connect to themselves and each other.
Art Therapy is based on the idea that people can recognize and express feelings and emotions through the creation of images. Most importantly, Art Therapy is an excellent tool to use as a means of personal expression, providing an avenue of communication. It is believed that every human being is endowed with a creative spirit. Art Therapy sessions work to increase a child's individuality and his/her ability to communicate. It uses the child's creative process to build self-esteem and confidence. It gives the child the freedom to make decisions, experiment and test ideas. It provides opportunities to express emotion, feelings, and work through conflicts. Art Therapy can address a child's need to focus and to control impulses as well. It provides opportunities to interact in a functional way with other children and adults. Art Therapy sessions provide a child with tactile and sensory experiences that enhance his/her awareness of the environment around him/her.
1501 Franklin Avenue • Garden City, New York  11530 •  (516) 741-9000
Donate-Make A Difference