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Devereux New York’s music therapy program helps adults, one note at a time

Author Hans Christian Andersen once said, “Where words fail, music speaks.”  

The music therapy program at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health New York is helping adults with developmental disabilities find their voice. 

About 60 adults, age 21 and older, participate in Devereux New York’s music therapy program, which is supported by the generous contributions of family members and friends.  

The program is offered in both day habilitation and residential treatment settings on a weekly and bi-weekly basis, respectively.  

Music therapy activities offered at Devereux New York include:

• Singing
• Playing instruments
• Dancing, moving and stretching
• Music mixing and composing 

“Music therapy helps the adults we serve better express their emotions and become more engaged,” said Devereux New York Executive Director John Lopez. “More importantly, music therapy is fun! Whether our adults are singing and dancing to their favorite tunes or simply smiling – it is easy to see the powerful and positive impact of music therapy.” 

Music therapy hits all the right notes

Merritt Lutz, whose son, Reid, has autism, sees first-hand the social, emotional, physical and cognitive benefits of Devereux New York’s music therapy program.  

“The program has brought so much joy into our son’s life,” Lutz shared. “Reid’s communication skills and vocabulary have improved, and he enjoys, and looks forward to, the sessions. We are grateful to the staff, especially music therapist Amy Recchia, for all she does to motivate and support Reid and his classmates.” 

Devereux New York Community Outreach Coordinator Kailee McIntyre noted that the music therapy program has had a positive impact on staff, as well.   

“To see the individuals we serve reacting positively to the music and interacting with their peers is truly amazing,” McIntyre explained. “Our staff are filled with a sense of pride when they witness what our adults have accomplished, and the milestones they have reached, thanks to this program.”  

Make a contribution to Devereux New York’s music therapy program. Learn more about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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