This support group is for care partners and family members of individuals with Parkinson’s and Parkinson’s-like conditions. The group, led by Cole Center Social Worker, Laura Clabo, LAPSW, is a safe place where you can be yourself, share your experiences, learn from others and much more. Because this is intended to be a small group allowing for everyone to participate, attendance is limited, registration is preferred.

This group is held at the same time as our Cole Community Music Program so that patients with Parkinson’s have a safe place to interact while being supervised, allowing the care partners to receive support.

Led by Certified Music Therapist Cecilia Stair, this weekly group uses evidence‑based music therapy to support individuals with Parkinson’s disease and related movement disorders.

What to Expect
Stretching
Vocal warmups
Group Singing
Instrument playing
Discussion and reminiscence
Social connection
Opportunities for community building through performance and outreach

Participants are not required to have prior training in music or the ability to read music. We use songs in a variety of genres that are likely to be familiar to participants of all ages. Care partners and family members are welcome to join. Participants are welcome to bring their preferred instruments.

Why Participate
Singing can help increase vocal volume, articulation, breath support, and swallowing function.
Humming may help relax tense vocal folds.
Following song lyrics can support memory, recognition, and attention.
Group music therapy fosters social connection and reduces feelings of isolation.