ATLANTA (May 9, 2011) – State Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell) recently visited Jacob’s Ladder in Roswell, a Neurodevelopmental school and therapy center, to recognize the work of music therapists across Georgia. These credentialed professionals apply the clinical and evidence-based use of music intervention to address physical, psychological, cognitive and social functions in patients of all ages and disabilities.
“Using music as a therapeutic tool is widely recognized as an effective way to teach those with developmental disabilities. It’s estimated that between 10,000 and 12,000 Georgians receive music therapy services each year,” said Albers. “Georgia boasts an array of resources geared toward music therapy, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees at a number of colleges and universities, as well as clinical internships across the state. Additionally, schools like Jacob’s Ladder utilize music therapy to offer children a unique educational experience that is tailored to fit their needs.”
Jacob’s Ladder is an SAIS-SACS Accredited Private School educating children Pre-K through 12. The school utilizes a brain-based methodology, incorporating targeted Neurodevelopmental interventions that create and strengthen a foundation for learning, combined with a vigorous academic program.
Founding Director Amy O’Dell notes, “At Jacob’s Ladder we utilize an individualized brain based stimulation approach to education. Our children are engaged and working every moment at their challenge point, making great strides and overcoming obstacles many thought they would never overcome.
“Music Therapy has been a dynamic and integral part of our methodology. Once you observe a session, you would have no doubt of its effectiveness. It is an intervention which provides an opening in multiple ways – the children’s hearts and minds are open to input, interaction and learning as the joy, laughter and music begins. Music therapy as a language intervention is well researched and documented for kids with Developmental Delays and Autism – we see this evidence daily.”
Albers was also joined by Jamie George, a nationally board-certified music therapist and founder of The George Center for Music Therapy in Atlanta. “The George Center for Music Therapy, Inc. is proud to provide music therapy services all over the metro Atlanta area. We serve children and adults of all abilities. We are proud affiliates of Key Music Center in Norcross, FOCUS (Families of Children Under Stress), Lekotek of Georgia, Kate’s Club, and Jacob’s Ladder Center in Roswell. At Jacob’s Ladder Center we offer social skills groups, music and movement groups, teen drumming groups, Kindermusik, and individual music therapy sessions to students who have been referred,” said George.
There are 120 nationally board-certified music therapists in Georgia employed in residential care facilities, schools, general medical hospitals, adult day centers, geriatric facilities, behavioral and mental health agencies and private practice.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
May 9, 2011
For Information Contact:
Natalie Strong, Director
Kallarin Richards, Deputy Director
Kallarin.Richards@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028