Thanks for posting, Karen. Families need service and location options. They were so limited with DD was young, comparatively to now.

LEISA: MLM Moderator-Div/Single-SpecNeeds-WAHM

Count your Blessings. Find the Joy. Celebrate the Good.

Blog: www.leisahammett.com * Autism Art: www.GraceGoad.com

What do music groups consist of? I'm trying to find someone that can teach my deaf son (who also has PDD among other issues) how to play a guitar and wondered if a music therapist would be the course to go. We are moving to Carthage in June and I'm looking for resources now.

originally posted by carben

What do music groups consist of? I'm trying to find someone that can teach my deaf son (who also has PDD among other issues) how to play a guitar and wondered if a music therapist would be the course to go. We are moving to Carthage in June and I'm looking for resources now.

I DO think a  music therapist is the route to go given your son's particular challenges.  I have used a music therapist as well as a couple other forms of specialized arts therapist and I cannot sing the praises and importance enough of having this specialized training! These people have the developmental know-how and expertise to help our special children.

You are not going out of the zone as much as you may think in moving out of Nashville regarding this service bc Tennessee Tech for many many years had the state's only Music Therapy degree.  So, my bet is there are some therapists scattered about those parts still, even though the school, unforutnately no longer offers that degree. 

I suggest calling the Autism Society of Middle Tennessee and getting a lists of therapists and start networking with them.  FYI, I just gave this same suggestion to another mother who's moving into that area. Just so you know if these people think you're calling twice.  Google Music Therapy Association in Tennessee and look for people in that area.  Also look up Tennessee Disabilty Pathfinder to see if they have any listings. Last resort, contact TTU's school of music or special ed and see if they have leads.

Have you considered percussion? For a person who is deaf, I'd be interested in persuing this.  However, I dont' have anything to go on other than a hunch and having seen percussion used w/ disAbilities quite a lot. 

Being a local disAbilities arts advocate for others and my child, I know from experience you have to beat the bushes and network like nuts, but you can find these people and form some rewarding relationships for everyone.   

Don't forget that the Autism Society of Middle Tennessee (assuming your son has PDDNOS,) has an active county chapter in the greater Cookeville area.  Look into what PACERS is doing.  There are actually some innovative disAbility things happening in the area.  And, if you are interested, I can see if my acquaintance who's moving to Smithville who has a son on the autism spectrum would be interested in networking with you.  PM me if so.

Good luck!

LEISA: MLM Moderator-Div/Single-SpecNeeds-WAHM

Count your Blessings. Find the Joy. Celebrate the Good.

Blog: www.leisahammett.com * Autism Art: www.GraceGoad.com

Carben-

I just saw your post.  Did you find a music therapist to work with your son?  I practice here in Nashville but know some wonderful people I can refer you to in Carthage/Cookeville. 

Music therapists have the training and specialization to adapt instruments in unique ways for each person... and as Leisa said, drumming would be a great idea. Let me know if you'd like a referral. 

OH! Hi, Melissa! Ya'll Melissa House, music therapist,  is SO COOL and FUN!

LEISA: MLM Moderator-Div/Single-SpecNeeds-WAHM

Book: www.fromheartachetohope.org

Blog: www.leisahammett.com * Autism Art: www.gracegoad.com