Music Therapy

Music therapy is a therapeutic approach part of the Allied Health Workforce, that uses music and musical elements to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Music therapists are trained professionals who use their musical expertise to help clients achieve specific therapeutic goals and enhance their overall well-being. The use of music in therapy is based on the understanding that music has the power to evoke emotions, memories, and physical responses, making it a valuable tool for communication, self-expression, and personal growth.

At River Road we have two Registered Music Therapists:

Patrick Nellestein is a Registered Music Therapist (RMT) having completed a Master of Music Therapy at Western Sydney University, and now a registered member of the Australian Music Therapy Association.

Anna Chapman, Anna is a highly experienced and sought-after Registered Music Therapist, known for her warm, person-centred approach and ability to connect through music. She brings depth, skill, and compassion to every session, supporting clients across a wide range of needs.

Music therapy services are available to all people, including NDIS participants.

Contact Pat to discuss further 0408 617 143 patrick@riverroad.edu.au

Art Therapy

with Alesha Elbourne

Enquiry Form

Let us know you are interested!

Alesha is currently completing her Master of Art Therapy at Western Sydney University, Alesha will soon graduate as a Registered Art Therapist, bringing to River Road a deep passion for creativity, community, and wellbeing through her work at the Moss Vale Arts Factory 😊

Alesha grew up in the Southern Highlands, attending Glenquarry Public School and Bowral High School, where she fell in love with art, drama, and design and technology. With 25 years of experience in theatre-making, sustainable arts, design, and community projects, she has worked with organisations such as Moss Vale Players, Bathurst Theatre Company, Shopfront Contemporary Arts, and most recently, Melting Pot Theatre Bundanoon.

Alesha holds:

🎓 Master of Art Therapy – Western Sydney University (in progress)

🎓 Bachelor of Communication – Theatre/Media (Honours) – Charles Sturt University Bathurst

📜 Cert IV in Digital Arts and Media – TAFE

📜 Cert IV in Design – TAFE

Her creative practice spans:

🎭 Theatre – directing, performing, design, production, drama therapy

🌿 Sustainable Arts – eco arts using recycled materials, nature/play therapy, sustainability education

🎨 Design & Art – 2D/3D art, puppetry, wearable art, drawing, painting, mixed media, community installations

Alesha is offering the following programs in 2025:

🖌️ Individual Art Therapy Sessions

Supportive one-on-one sessions using art, play, nature, or drama therapy. Mondays and Wednesdays - 30-minute or 1-hour sessions

🌏 Community Outreach Project – Waste 2 Art: Wizard of Oz

In partnership with Melting Pot Theatre Bundanoon, River Road will lead a group eco-art program alongside the 2025 Winter Singalong of The Wizard of Oz.

We’ll explore the themes of home, courage, love, and wisdom while creating artworks from recycled materials.

🎨 PLUS = our Creative Youth Drop In Sessions and more coming soon!

Want to get involved or learn more?