HORTICULTURAL THERAPIST
Trees and plants soothe the mind. The cultivation of flowers, vegetables and
ornamental plants is thought to have therapeutic value in building
confidence and self esteem. Horticultural therapists offer the following services:
Giving mentally retarded as well as physically disabled children and adults,
the opportunity to work with a variety of plants and thus promoting
independence, motor skills and psychological well being.
The patients show talent and aptitude can be selected for work in gardens
or parks.
MUSIC THERAPIST
Who does not love music? Music is one of the finest of the fine arts. It can
carry one to the highest plane of ecstasy.
The intervention of the music therapists may involve instrumental or vocal performance or appreciating music or attending musical events. This goes a long way in:
1. Helping children or adults with cerebral palsy or other paralytic
Conditions, to improve coordination and develop gross and fine motor
skills through playing instruments or exercising to music. (creative
movement therapy) Some children with Downs syndrome respond
naturally to music.
2. Relaxation, sedation or control of pain or anxiety.
3. Improving speech through articulation training or melodic intonation.
4. Preparing selected patients for music related careers (e.g. visually
impaired piano tuners).
5. Improving socialization skills, self confidence and esteem through group
music activities.
6. Improving quality of life for patients in palliative care.
N E X T⎘