b'ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND , over 2,000 One of the ways Brain Injury Matters is delivering innovativepeople each year experience Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). approaches to those with ABI is through their Music TherapyWhether through accidents or illness, individuals and families Programme. Using song writing, musical improvisation, songexperience radical changes after a brain injury. Skills must be lyric analysis, discussion and music listening, specializedrelearned, social circles are affected and entire lives must be therapists have seen remarkable improvement in those withrebuilt.ABI. We started the programme in 2011 and almost immedi-Improving quality of life after ABI is the goal of Brain In- ately saw the success, says Lorraine Ni Bhriain, Music Ther-jury Matters (formerly Headway Belfast) and their work across apist. The feedback was so positive and we had a queue forNorthern Ireland.those who wanted to participate. The organization promotes independence, fosters per- A grant from The Ireland Funds in 2013 has allowed themsonal development and supports people as they adapt to life to expand this program from their Belfast-based center outafter illness or accident. Their services are delivered by a com- into the community. A combined Music & Movement ap-bination of professional clinicians and staff with specialist proach is targeting people who would not otherwise be able toknowledge of ABI rehabilitation.travel for their services. Ireland is so rich in music and art,says Lorraine. To see our service-users connect with that artand culture is often a chance to see their creativity return.How does Music Therapy help? Y:musiC THerApY CAn HeLp B Providing a non-verbal means of communication and self-expression. Alleviating feelings of depression. Enhancing memory capabilities and developing attention and concentration skills. Enhancing social interaction and re-integration. Physical goals in conjunction with Physiotherapy input. Developing and enhancing communication skills. Encouraging creativity and spontaneity. Providing opportunities to develop relationships with other service users. Increasing condence and self-esteem.PE TER: Music Therapy is relaxing and DANNY: soothing. Its not stressful and I like singing in Music Therapygives me a break from feeling for the company, it gives me atain stressed.sense of achievement and cersongs make me feel emotional.connect2014 | 27'