In this inspiring episode of Thriving with Autism, Jay from Autism Music Australia sits down with trauma-informed community music therapist Sarah Dunston from Melodica Music Therapy. Together, they explore how music can be a life-changing tool for emotional regulation, communication, and confidence building — especially for children and adults with autism and diverse abilities.

Sarah shares her personal journey from teaching to music therapy, and the profound transformations she’s witnessed through rhythm, breathwork, and connection. Jay and Sarah also dive deep into how traditional music education can evolve to become more inclusive, intuitive, and healing — bringing back the heart, spirit, and science of sound.

🌟 Key Topics Covered:

• What music therapy really is and how it helps people across the lifespan

• Using rhythm, breath, and movement for emotional regulation

• Why adaptability and connection matter more than rigid teaching methods

• The intersection of music, spirituality, and Indigenous healing traditions

• Simple daily practices parents can use to boost their child’s confidence

🎶 Whether you’re a parent, educator, therapist, or music lover, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical tools to help children thrive through music.

🔗 Learn more about Sarah at melodica.com.au

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In this episode, Jay sits down with Erena from Abloom Care Services for a real conversation about what families truly need. Erena brings eleven years of experience with ASD, ADHD, and high physical support needs, and shares a powerful guiding question: Who is the person behind the plan? Together, they explore how behaviour communicates needs, how to create care that is compassionate and effective, and how to reduce overwhelm for time-poor parents.

Inside, you will hear • What dignity-driven care looks like in everyday life, including complex behavioural support • How to advocate with confidence, and why families deserve to be heard, respected, and included • Practical ways to navigate changing NDIS settings with more clarity and less stress • Erena’s simple four-step onboarding that centres the person, the family, and allied health teams • Why consistent supports and predictable rhythms build trust and progress • How Autism Music Australia’s weekly live jam sessions give kids confidence and give parents time back

Who this helps Parents and carers seeking calm, clarity, and supportive partners who listen. Educators and support coordinators who value collaboration. Anyone who believes that every child can shine with the right environment.

Stay connected Join the Autism Music Australia community to access colour-coded programs, weekly live jam sessions, and parent training. Share this episode with a family who could use a little hope and a lot of support today.

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In this heart-filled episode, Jay sits down with the inspiring Storm, a 24-year-old powerhouse and the founding director of Triple E Support Services in Brisbane, Australia.

From growing up surrounded by disability advocacy to creating transformative social programs that empower neurodivergent youth, Storm shares the story, spirit, and spark behind her work.

We explore:

• Practical tools to help parents avoid burnout and build connection

• The power of community in raising confident, resilient kids

• Surprising insights from neurodivergent young people

• Music, memory, and the healing force of creative expression

Storm’s story is one of radical heart-leadership and soulful service. Whether you're a parent, carer, educator, or ally, this episode is packed with tools, truth, and tenderness.

🎧 Tune in to feel uplifted, empowered, and maybe even a little emotional.

autismmusicaustralia.com

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