FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should I expect from Music Therapy with the aging?
Music therapy provides opportunities for:
Memory recall: contributes to reminiscence and satisfaction with life
Positive changes in mood and emotional states
Sense of control over life through successful experiences
Awareness of self and environment
Anxiety and stress reduction for older adult and caregiver
Nonpharmacological management of pain and discomfort
Stimulation which provokes interest even when no other approach does
Structure as an adjunct to physical rehabilitation
Emotional intimacy: spouses/families share creative music experiences
Social interaction with caregivers and families* Participants without a music background can benefit from music therapy.
How does music therapy work for families?
Music therapy provides:
A forum to share common experiences and enjoyment
Meaningful time spent together in a positive, creative way
Relaxation for the entire family
Stimulation for reminiscence of family bonds
Unity and intimacy for families through verbal and nonverbal interaction
Respite for the caregiverWhat does research say about music therapy?
Research Highlights:
Music therapy reduces depression among older adults.
Music experiences enhance social/emotional skills
Music assists in recall and language skills
Music tasks can be used to assess cognitive ability
Music decreases the frequency of agitated and aggressive behaviors
Individuals with dementia respond to and interact with music
Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?
There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier.
Services may be covered in part by your health insurance plan. Please contact your healthcare insurance provider and be sure to ask all of the following questions:
Do I have mental health benefits?
What is my deductible and has it been met?
How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
How much does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider?
What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
Is approval required from my primary care physician?
Do you offer reduced rates?
A reduced rate may be agreed upon for the initial consultation. During this first meeting, we will discuss the ongoing rate for services provided in the future and an individual arrangement may be made at this time.
How can I pay for your services?
Typically, payment is due at the time of service. Bills may also be sent at the end of each month after it has been established that we will be working together (after about 2 sessions).
Cash, checks, and credit cards (online only) are acceptable form of payment.
Payment for the initial consultation must be paid for at time of service.
What happens if I need to cancel?
For the initial session, please provide 24-hour notice if you cannot keep your appointment for any reason. If you do not show up for your scheduled appointment, you will be required to pay the full cost of the treatment as booked.
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:
Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.
Kimberly Atwood, M.A., LCAT, MT-BC, CGP| (917) 696-8418
280 North Central Avenue | Westchester | 19 West 34th Street | New York City
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