Innovative Music Therapy Program Supports New Mothers in Reno
A pioneering initiative in Reno is leveraging the power of music to support new mothers. This year-long pilot program offers twice-weekly music therapy sessions designed to provide emotional and community support for postpartum parents.
Inspired by the Lullaby Project, which encouraged mothers in recovery to compose lullabies for their children, the new program aims to bring the benefits of music into the lives of more families. “This postpartum time having a new baby in the family can be a really joyful time, a really exciting time, but it can also be, you know, very new and scary and stressful, and music is such a great way to address some of the issues that come up in this stage of life,” explained Manal Toppozada, the executive director.
Each session is conducted by a professional music therapist alongside a bilingual community health worker, allowing participants to engage in singing, movement, and rhythm exercises. Parents also have the opportunity to create personalized playlists to help manage their emotions.
The initiative focuses not only on infants but also on the well-being of mothers, offering a space for rest, connection, and community building with fellow parents. The program is accessible in both English and Spanish, with additional language support in Arabic and French. Importantly, mothers can choose to attend alone if they need personal time, and siblings are welcome to join.
Open to all new parents within a year of childbirth, the program does not require a diagnosis of postpartum depression for participation. This inclusive approach ensures that all new parents have the chance to benefit from the therapeutic effects of music.
Note-Able Music Therapy Services
