In celebration of Music Therapy Awareness Month, Sarah Cheung and Josh Lio, Music Therapists at Kensington Health's long-term care home, share their passion for music therapy. Music therapy is more than just enjoying music. It can provide a moment of reflection, healing and connection. 

Sarah and Josh work with those living at the long-term care home. They lead one-on-one and group sessions with residents and spend their time exploring the role of music in each of their lives. 

In the one-on-one sessions residents work towards emotional, physical, or cognitive goals. While in group session they may practice improvisation, where instruments are used to self-express, and residents come together to create musical dialogue playing drums and singing. It’s a fantastic way for residents to socialize and have fun rocking out in a safe space. Both those with a lot or just a little musical experience can benefit from these exercises led by Sarah and Josh. 

Through music therapy, Sarah and Josh can support the mental and physical well-being of residents. Music plays an important role in the lives of the residents at Kensington, and for Sarah and Josh, too! Let’s get to know the people behind the music. 

Sarah Cheung

What do you enjoy most about being a Music Therapist? 

Learning about people through a musical lens is incredibly unique and meaningful. Music opens up the dialogue of one’s childhood, significant memories and hardships, allowing me to connect with people on a deeper level.

What is your favourite intervention to facilitate? 

Relaxation interventions are my favourite as I enjoy seeing how music can immediately relax and provide serenity to a space.

What is your favourite instrument? 

Harp. I love the unique sound of the harp and how any song played sounds delicate and beautiful!

Josh Lio

What do you enjoy most about being a Music Therapist? 

To be able to connect with people in a deeper level that is beyond words. I feel privileged to be able to use music (something I can't live without) to help people feel heard and understood.

What is your favourite intervention to facilitate?

I love improvising with our residents because I'm always impressed by how musically creative and responsive, they are!

What is your favourite instrument? 

Cello. The depth of the sound makes me feel grounded and calm.