How sessions work
Sessions are client-focused and built around musical experiences that succeed, with family participation welcomed throughout. Individual, group and co-treatment settings are available.
Faculty
Music therapy
Credentialed music therapists working one-to-one and in groups with children and adults with special needs.
Melissa Taveras
Music Therapist
- Music Therapy
- Special Needs
- ASL
Melissa L. Taveras holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Therapy from Montclair State University and a Registered Music Therapist designation through the American Music Therapy Association and National Music Therapy Registry. Ms. Taveras has extensive experience working with special needs individuals, from preschool age to adulthood, in group, individual and co-treatment settings. She has been a staff member at The Mount Carmel Guild Schools and The Cerebral Palsy League/Jardine Academy, and has provided in-home therapy sessions. She is also proficient in American Sign Language, and is dedicated to improving students' lives through positive musical experiences.
Sheri Kandel
Music Therapist · Piano
- Music Therapy
- Piano
- Family Participation
Sheri Kandel began her studies in music therapy in 1981 under the tutelage of Dr. Charles Eagle at Southern Methodist University. She relocated from Dallas to Philadelphia and received her master's degree in Creative Arts in Therapy from Drexel University in 1989. She then worked in hospitals providing individual and group music therapy at both Carrier and UMDNJ, until she settled in Westfield where she owned and operated Music Therapy For All Ages from 2007 to 2017. Being herself the parent of a special needs child gave her a unique understanding of the dynamics of raising these children. Ms. Kandel has served on The New Jersey Parent Caucus and co-founded the Parents Executive Council at Trinitas Hospital.
Arrange a music therapy consultation
Call the office and we'll talk through goals, scheduling and whether individual or group sessions fit best.