Beyond the Notes: Music as a Bridge to Connection | Ep. 31

In this heart-opening episode of Finding Hope on the Spectrum, host Brooke sits down with Michelle Hardy, a board-certified music therapist and spelling-to-communicate practitioner with over 25 years of experience supporting individuals with autism. Michelle shares how music becomes more than melody—it becomes movement, connection, and voice. Through rhythm and relationship, she shows how music therapy can unlock non-musical skills like communication, regulation, and confidence. Together, they explore the power of whole-body learning, sensory awareness, and the importance of presuming competence in every child. Michelle also opens up about her own journey into music therapy and offers insight on finding practitioners who truly understand the neurodevelopmental experience of autism. This episode is a reminder that when we listen with our hearts—and not just our ears—music has the power to connect us beyond words.00:00 Introduction to Functional Skills Through Music01:28 Welcome to Finding Hope on the Spectrum02:19 Introducing Michelle Hardy03:17 Michelle's Journey into Music Therapy05:39 Discovering the Power of Rhythm in Autism08:39 Spelling to Communicate: An Overview15:12 Understanding Whole Body Apraxia29:29 The Role of Sensory Processing in Autism35:04 A Chance Encounter on the Airport Shuttle35:59 Facing the Thesis Defense37:58 Introduction to Body Coaching40:09 Breaking Down Motor Plans46:42 Understanding Stuck Loops53:01 The Importance of Sensory Accommodations57:26 Final Thoughts on Apraxia and Music Therapy01:01:19 Resources and Mentorship for Music TherapistsConnect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum:Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrumTikTok: FindinghopeonthespectrumGuest Contact: https://hardyautismservices.com/