Elisabeth Coulson -

HCPC Registered Music therapist

Hi there! My name is Elisabeth Coulson and I am an HCPC registered Music Therapist. I received my masters qualification in psychodynamic Music Therapy from Roehampton University in 2023. I am based in Brighton, UK but can travel to other areas of the South East to offer therapeutic services.

I am passionate about using music and the creative arts to support a holistic approach to care and create a space where my clients feel safe and welcome to come as they are. I operate using a trauma informed approach as well as utilising attachment theory and considering the unconscious mind and past relationships within the context of working. Building a safe and trust focussed therapeutic relationship and adopting a client led approach is at the centre of the work I do.

I have experience working with children, young people, adults and older adults in different settings. My past work has included areas of attachment, emotional and behavioural difficulties, trauma, mental health, physical illness and dementia care, as well as extended work tackling additional mental health needs within the neurodivergent community.

I also have years of experience as a gigging musician, with voice being my main instrument alongside also being proficient in guitar and piano.

Please feel free to look through my website to find out more about Music Therapy and the services I can offer.

Do get in touch if you have any questions or would like to organise a free 15 minute consultation call to discuss things further.

Best wishes,

Lizzy

Credentials

  • MA in Music Therapy

  • HCPC accredited Healthcare Professional

  • Enhanced DBS checked

  • Level 3 Children & Adults safeguarding certification

  • Beacon House Developmental Trauma for Professionals Training

What is Music Therapy?

Music Therapy is a form of psychotherapy which aims to facilitate non-verbal and verbal communication through shared music making. It is a proven clinical intervention that aims to meet the social, emotional, communication, learning, physical and mental health needs of the individual. Music Therapy can support in encouraging self expression, facilitating communication, increasing social interaction, improving self awareness and awareness of others. It can also provide an opportunity to build confidence and a sense of agency.  

Music Therapy could be a particularly supportive intervention if you want to process and explore without talking. Talking can be part of the intervention, but is not a requirement within Music Therapy.

Music therapy can take many forms; Improvised music making, song writing and listening to music to name a few. Alongside music making, other creative outlets can be utilised such as art, storytelling, games and talking.

Sessions are client-led, therefore the process and content within sessions is based around what each individual brings to their sessions.

Who Music Therapist’s work with?

Music Therapists work can work with anyone and everyone of all ages and needs! You do not have to have any previous musical training to engage in Music Therapy.

Those seeking support can include but are not limited to:

-Individuals who have experienced grief or trauma

-Non verbal individuals

-Those experiencing mental health challenges

-Living with dementia

-Family/Adoption support

-Learning Disabilities

-SEN needs

Where Music Therapists work?

Music Therapist can work in a variety of settings including but not limited to:

-Schools

-Mental Health facilities

-The individuals home

-Care homes

Testimonials

Lizzy has been a valuable part of our SEN school, working at both the primary and secondary site, offering music therapy sessions that provided a calm and enjoyable space for our children. Many of them felt safe and secure during her sessions, and it was clear they looked forward to their sessions each week.

Lizzy took the time to understand the individual needs of the children she supported and was also approachable and willing to offer advice to staff when needed.

Her contribution has had a noticeable impact, and we appreciate the difference she has made during her time with us.

— Deputy Headteacher at SEN School, Croydon.


My son has been having Music therapy sessions with Lizzy for primarily to support him with his sense of self, anxiety and alexithymia associated with his Autism and ADHD and a traditional talking therapy wouldn't have suited my son. He loves it and is always happy to attend sessions. 

I have noticed some subtle but important changes in him since the sessions started. E.g. how he regulates himself after he has been dysregulated has improved and he is less angry.

Lizzy is always so respectful and puts my son at the very centre of everything. I am so glad we found her.

— Parent of a young person with ASD and additional mental health needs.

-Wellbeing lead at SEN school,

Brighton & Hove

Lizzy swiftly became a crucial part of our Wellbeing provision at School - an autism specialist provision for teenagers with a history of school-based trauma within Brighton & Hove - where her incredibly relatable, empathetic and warm personality provided our students with a space where they finally felt safe enough to share & explore their feelings. 

Lizzy takes the time to truly understand each individual student, connecting with them in such a genuine and compassionate way, including building trusting relationships with the student's parents/carers, too. Her ability to use music to support and connect with people is truly special, and her kindness, patience, playfulness and professionalism have left a lasting impression on both our cohort, their families, and our staff! 

Services

I can offer 1:1 Music Therapy sessions & group Music Therapy sessions. Alongside this I can be involved in professional meetings surrounding the individual’s care, as well as writing clinical reports.

Please get in touch directly to find out more about costs. Packages are tailored around each individual’s/the groups needs.

All hourly rates will include contact time as well as the therapists set up, pack down and note taking.

There may be additional charges for room hire & travel time depending on geographical area.

Interested in finding out more?

Please do fill in your details and I will get back to you as soon as I can.