Empowering individuals through sensory-informed music therapy services in Indiana
At Mainstay Music Therapy in Indiana, we believe that before we can grow, we have to feel grounded. That’s why sensory regulation isn’t just a helpful tool—it’s foundational to the way we approach our music therapy services for individuals with autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, sensory processing disorder, and other developmental disabilities.
Whether we’re singing with a child in their home, co-creating rhythm with a teen in our sensory-friendly clinic, or engaging an adult client in improvisational music-making, our team always begins with this essential question:
“Is this person regulated enough to feel safe, connected, and present in this moment?”
In this post, we’ll explore how music therapy supports sensory regulation and integration, why it matters, and how our trained music therapists tailor each session to meet the unique needs of every client.
🧠 What Is Sensory Integration and Why Is It Important?
Sensory integration refers to the way our brain receives and organizes information from our senses—touch, sound, sight, movement, and more. When this process isn’t smooth, the world can feel overwhelming.
Many of our clients—especially those with autism, ADHD, developmental delays, or sensory processing disorder—experience difficulty processing sensory input. This may look like avoiding touch, becoming overwhelmed by sound, or constantly seeking movement.
Without regulation, engaging in therapy, learning new skills, or building relationships becomes incredibly difficult.
That’s why supporting sensory regulation through music therapy is not an extra—it’s our starting point.
🎶 Why Music Therapy Is a Natural Fit for Sensory Needs
Music is inherently sensory. It offers rhythmic structure, rich auditory input, opportunities for movement, and emotional expression. But in the hands of a trained professional, music becomes so much more—it becomes a regulatory tool.
At Mainstay, our board-certified music therapists are experts in understanding and responding to sensory needs in real time. We serve clients across Indiana, providing music therapy services in both home and clinic environments, with a consistent emphasis on sensory-informed care.
Our therapists use techniques such as:
- Rhythmic entrainment: Using steady beat to help regulate breathing, heart rate, and movement
- Instrument play for sensory input: Drumming for proprioception, swinging with music for vestibular input
- Auditory pacing: Adjusting tempo, pitch, and dynamics to soothe or alert the nervous system
- Co-regulation through music: Supporting connection and emotional regulation via shared musical experiences
- Affect matching: Mirroring the client’s emotional state musically to validate their experience and support self-awareness and regulation
- Flexible routines: Creating predictable yet adaptable structures that support sensory safety
🤝 Collaboration Is Key: OT + Music Therapy + Family Support
We know that all therapy works best when it’s part of a collaborative approach. That’s why Mainstay values partnerships with Occupational Therapists and families to create a shared understanding of each client’s sensory needs and goals. It’s important to keep in mind our Scope of Practice as Music Therapists, and consult with professionals (like OT’s for sensory needs) when nearing the edge of our scope!
For example:
- If a client covers their ears when we sing, we explore whether certain pitches or frequencies are overstimulating.
- If a child avoids sitting still, we may include swinging or bouncing with music to provide calming vestibular input.
- If an adult client becomes overwhelmed by unexpected changes in their environment, we may use familiar songs and predictable musical cues to support transitions and promote a sense of stability.
These aren’t just behaviors to manage—they’re messages we can interpret through a sensory lens.
🎵 What Sensory-Aware Music Therapy Looks Like
Imagine a client arrives dysregulated—restless, stimming, or disengaged. Instead of diving into a structured activity, our music therapist pauses and adapts. They might:
- Begin with grounding rhythms on a buffalo drum
- Invite movement in our swing or sensory room
- Use soft vocalizations or calming melodies to lower arousal
- Wait until the client is ready to join musically—on their own terms
Only when regulation is established do we shift toward skill-building, communication, or emotional exploration. Our clients don’t have to “be ready” to receive therapy—we meet them exactly where they are.
👂 What Music Therapists Notice That Others Might Miss
Because music engages the entire brain, our therapists are trained to notice the small shifts:
- A sudden pause in pacing during a rhythmic song
- A smile when a certain sound is repeated
- A calming breath as the beat slows down
- Increased vocalization when paired with sensory-friendly instruments
These observations guide every moment of our sessions. We adapt dynamically, using music as a tool to regulate, relate, and build trust.
🌱 Why Sensory Regulation is the Foundation of Growth
When a child or adult is regulated, they’re open to growth. Whether it’s learning to communicate, building peer relationships, or simply enjoying a moment of musical connection, everything begins with sensory safety.
At Mainstay, our mission is to support this clients where they are at. We provide sensory-aware music therapy for all ages, from early intervention to adulthood, in both home and clinic settings across Indiana.
We believe that when we support the body and the brain in working together, the possibilities are endless.
💬 Learn More About Music Therapy and Sensory Support
If someone in your life is navigating sensory challenges, we’d love to help.
Reach out to our team to learn more about sensory-informed music therapy in Indiana and how we can support you or your loved one.
👉 Contact Us to get started.