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 Music
01:28 Welcome to Finding Hope on the Spectrum
02:19 Introducing Michelle Hardy
03:17 Michelle's Journey into Music Therapy
05:39 Discovering the Power of Rhythm in Autism
08:39 Spelling to Communicate: An Overview
15:12 Understanding Whole Body Apraxia
29:29 The Role of Sensory Processing in Autism
35:04 A Chance Encounter on the Airport Shuttle
35:59 Facing the Thesis Defense
37:58 Introduction to Body Coaching
40:09 Breaking Down Motor Plans
46:42 Understanding Stuck Loops
53:01 The Importance of Sensory Accommodations
57:26 Final Thoughts on Apraxia and Music Therapy
01:01:19 Resources and Mentorship for Music Therapists
Connect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum:
Email: bwagner@findinghopeonthespectrum.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/
Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrum
TikTok: Findinghopeonthespectrum
Guest Contact: https://hardyautismservices.com/
