In this active music therapy experience, clients create and perform personal “power phrases” set to rhythm, using percussion and voice to express inner strengths and coping strategies.

Instructions:

1. Intro & Discussion
   • Briefly talk about inner strength and coping tools.
     • Prompt: “What’s something you tell yourself when things are tough?”
       • Example answers:
         • “One breath at a time”
         • “I’ve done hard things before”
         • “I have support”
2. Phrase Creation
   • Guide each client to choose or create a short power phrase.
   • Write them down for everyone to see.
3. Rhythm Exploration:
   • Hand out instruments.
   • Have clients try different rhythms to match the natural cadence of their phrase.
4. Layered Groove:
   • Invite the group to build a groove using their individual phrases.
     • Start with one person leading by repeating their phrase to a beat.
     • Gradually add other individuals in, layering the rhythms of their phrases together.
     • Optional: loop a simple chord progression underneath for support.
5. Adaptations:
   • Song form
     • Structure phrases into a full group chat or song:
       • Verse 1: Individual power phrases
       • Chorus: A shared group affirmation (e.g. We’ve got the power)
       • Instrumental break for free play
       • Final Chorus
   • Art Work
     • Print the downloadable pages on cardstock, watercolor paper, etc
     • Have the clients write in their power phrase in the blank
     • have Clients use art materials to make art around their power phrase if using a blank page or color the existing patterns
     • If in a group, arrange each sheet in an order to create a musical representation of their physical art almost as if it is a lyrical line.
6. Reflection:
   • Conclude with a discussion of the experience if appropriate:
     • “How did it feel to say your phrase out loud with music?”
     • “Can this be a tool for when you feel overwhelmed?”
     • “How will you take this from the session into your day with you?”