Haven Songs
Music Therapy for Expectant Parents & New Families
Welcome to Haven Songs, a therapeutic music group designed to nurture the well-being and strengthen the bond between parents and their children during the profound transition into family life.
What is Haven Songs?
Haven Songs is a specialised group delivered by Angharad Sanders, an HCPC Registered Music Therapist. This is not a recreational music class, but a professional, clinical service utilizing the unique power of music to meet therapeutic goals for the entire family unit. We provide a safe, calm space to process emotions, reduce anxiety, and connect with your baby through sound and song.
Who is This Group For?
This group provides essential support for the perinatal period, focusing on:
- Expectant Parents: Third Trimester (approximately 28 weeks onwards).
- New Families: Fourth Trimester (the first 3 months/12 weeks after birth or until baby is mobile).
Why Choose Music Therapy? The Professional Difference
Choosing a group led by an HCPC Registered Music Therapist means you receive care that is:
- Evidence-Based: We use techniques proven to impact stress hormones and neurological development. Research, including that highlighted by BBC News, demonstrates that group singing activities can help reduce symptoms of postnatal depression (PND) faster than standard care.
- Clinical & Targeted: Sessions are structured to meet specific therapeutic aims, far beyond simple entertainment. We address challenges like antenatal anxiety, difficulties with parent-infant bonding, and emotional regulation.
- Holistic: We support both the parent’s mental health (wellbeing, mood, stress) and the infant’s early cognitive and auditory development.
Key Areas of Focus
The Haven Songs curriculum covers all aspects of perinatal well-being:
| Focus Area | Benefit |
| Wellbeing & Relaxation | Significant reduction in stress, anxiety, and risk factors for postnatal depression (PND). |
| Parent-Baby Bonding | Therapeutic techniques (singing, humming) that actively release oxytocin, the bonding hormone, strengthening the connection before and after birth. |
| Birth Preparation | Learning relaxation and rhythmic techniques that can be used effectively for pain management and to increase a sense of control during labour. |
| Developmental Support | Promoting the baby’s auditory processing, rhythm awareness, and early language development. |
| Postnatal Wellness | Building confidence, self-efficacy, and a vital community network for new parents in Pembrokeshire. |
Booking
Location: The Fold, Church of the Holy Spirit, Hakin, Milford Haven.
Commitment: To ensure therapeutic continuity and foster group connection, registration is essential. Spaces are limited.
Support Our Vision (Pay What You Can):
Hiraeth Haven is committed to making this service accessible to everyone. We are currently operating on a ‘Pay What You Can’ model while actively seeking external funding to secure this project long-term for our community. Your contribution helps cover essential operational costs (venue, resources) and keeps these vital services running.
Ready to start your harmonious journey?
Email today to secure your place.
Email: angharad@hiraethhaven.co.uk