ABOUT US
I am Alphonso Archer, a professional HCPC registered music therapist
in Calne, UK.
With a master's degree in music therapy
from the University of the West of England (UWE), I bring a wealth
of knowledge and expertise to my practice. As a dedicated member of
the British Association for Music Therapy (BAMT) and The Black,
African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN), I stay at the forefront
of developments in the field.
My journey into music therapy was inspired by a personal experience
that ignited my passion for helping others. Following my diagnosis
of prostate cancer in 2016 and an arteriovenous malformation (AVM)
on the brain, both detected early and successfully treated, I
embarked on a path to follow my dreams. These challenges underscored
the importance of healing and motivated me to retrain as a music
therapist. I have also taught piano, guitar and drums for over
twenty years in private settings and as a creative music lead in
mainstream and specialist schools.
With a master's degree in music therapy from the University of the
West of England (UWE), I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise
to my practice. As a dedicated member of the British Association for
Music Therapy (BAMT) and The Black, African and Asian Therapy
Network (BAATN), I stay at the forefront of developments in the
field.
My use of music and instruments extends beyond traditional methods and apparatus. I empower clients to embark on a self-directed journey into creative expression by harnessing an extensive array of conventional instruments and state-of-the-art technology in a safe space I call "The Sound Sanctuary". In music therapy, you do not need to be able to play an instrument; many clients comment that "they are not musical," but judgment on musical ability is nonexistent in this therapeutic space. Whether strumming a guitar, exploring digital synthesisers, or crafting their rhythms on a drum kit, individuals can access their inner worlds in ways that sometimes surpass the limitations of spoken language.
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This holistic approach underscores the versatility of music therapy, adeptly addressing a broad spectrum of psychological, emotional, cognitive, physical, communicative, and social needs for those whose lives have been impacted by injury, illness, or disability. My approach embraces neurodiversity and fosters equality within the therapeutic space, ensuring everyone can benefit from its transformative power.
I have worked extensively with diverse clients, including children with autism, adults with mental health issues, and older adults with dementia. My experience spans a wide range of settings, enabling me to adapt my therapeutic approach to suit the unique needs of each individual I work with.
Beyond my role as a music therapist, I actively engage in fundraising and awareness-raising activities for Prostate Cancer and Autism research. I have organised and participated in numerous music events to generate funds for this vital cause. This personal connection fuels my dedication to making a difference in the lives of my clients and the broader community.
Growing up with a father diagnosed with schizophrenia has deeply influenced my perspective on mental health issues. It has nurtured a profound interest and empathy for those facing similar challenges, motivating me to specialise in this area within my music therapy practice. I firmly believe that music possesses the extraordinary power to forge connections on a soulful level, facilitating healing and fostering personal growth.
In addition to my therapeutic work, I am actively involved in advocacy and awareness-raising initiatives concerning mental health, autism, social justice, and race. With over seven years of experience creatively using music to support children with autism, I have gained invaluable insights into neurodiversity, selective mutism, ADHD, identity, intergenerational trauma, and mental health issues.
As a compassionate and highly skilled music therapist, my ultimate goal is to help individuals from all backgrounds embark on their healing journeys and find profound meaning through the transformative power of music. My expertise in working with issues surrounding identity, intergenerational trauma, and autism and my active involvement in BAMT and BAATN exemplify my unwavering commitment to promoting cultural awareness, social justice, and healing within my practice.
I approach each client with deep compassion and employ my extensive knowledge and skills to design personalised, music-based interventions tailored to their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. Whether working with children with autism, adults with mental health issues, or elderly individuals with dementia, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and holistic care that nurtures growth, well-being, and a sense of connection.
The Sound Sanctuary
A Safe Space to Be You, Create, Explore, and Discover
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