The Healing Power of Music Therapy with Sarah Dunstan | Thriving with Autism Podcast

In this inspiring episode of Thriving with Autism, Jay from Autism Music Australia sits down with trauma-informed community music therapist Sarah Dunstan from Melodica Music Therapy. Together they explore how music can be a life-changing tool for emotional regulation, communication, and confidence building — especially for children and adults with autism and diverse abilities.

Sarah shares her personal journey from teaching to music therapy, and the profound transformations she’s witnessed through rhythm, breathwork, and connection. Jay and Sarah also dive deep into how traditional music education can evolve to become more inclusive, intuitive, and healing — bringing back the heart, spirit, and science of sound.

🌟 Key Topics Covered:

• What music therapy really is and how it helps people across the lifespan

• Using rhythm, breath, and movement for emotional regulation

• Why adaptability and connection matter more than rigid teaching methods

• The intersection of music, spirituality, and Indigenous healing traditions

• Simple daily practices parents can use to boost their child’s confidence

🎶 Whether you’re a parent, educator, therapist, or music lover, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical tools to help children thrive through music.

🔗 Learn more about Sarah at melodica.com.au 🎸 Explore Jay’s colour-coded rhythm program at autismmusicaustralia.com

#ThrivingWithAutism #MusicTherapy #AutismAwareness #Neurodiversity #ParentSupport #SoundHealing #MelodicaMusicTherapy #AutismMusicAustralia #JayHoad #SarahDunstan