Jessica Bennett

Specialist Music Therapist

MMusThpy, RMTAshgrove

Independent health professional providing services to patients from Paeds in a Pod rooms.

Jessica Bennett is a Registered Music Therapist who tailors music-based programs to support children’s mental health, development, and overall well-being. She collaborates closely with families to design sessions around each child’s unique strengths, interests, and developmental needs, helping them build skills and resilience in a supportive and creative environment.

Jessica’s therapy work includes supporting children in a wide range of areas, such as:

Emotional health: Developing emotional awareness, regulation, and literacy
Social skills: Building and sustaining positive relationships
Resilience: Establishing positive coping strategies and self-understanding
Educational engagement: Improving attention and engagement in learning
Self-concept: Exploring and strengthening identity
Developmental needs:
Enhancing speech, communication, and social abilities
Supporting body movement, coordination, and physical function
Strengthening memory, attention, and cognitive skills

A typical music therapy session with Jessica may involve activities like instrument play, songwriting, lyric discussions, music-based games, and movement to music. Depending on each child’s needs and preferences, Jessica also brings in other creative outlets, such as visual art and movement, to enhance their experience.

Jessica has a strong background in supporting children with mental health challenges, including anxiety, autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities. Her professional experience is diverse, spanning roles in paediatric mental health, paediatric oncology, and adult disability services. Jessica also has years of experience as an early childhood music teacher. She continues to work as a professional live musician, bringing a rich understanding of music’s therapeutic and expressive power.

Jessica earned her Master of Music Therapy (MMusThpy) from the University of Melbourne and holds Registered Music Therapist (RMT) status with the Australian Music Therapy Association. Her training included her final independent placement at Paeds in a Pod, where she applied her expertise in children’s mental health with authenticity, curiosity, and kindness.

Growing up, Jessica experienced music as a powerful tool for mental well-being. This personal connection inspired her to deepen her knowledge and pursue a career in music therapy, allowing her to share the positive impact of music with others. She finds great fulfilment in witnessing children discover music as a health resource, helping them gain confidence, resilience, and joy.

Outside of her therapy work, Jessica enjoys performing live music and connecting with others through the arts, continually inspired by music’s ability to connect, heal, and uplift.

Further information and resources: