About Helping Notes

Meet Your Therapist

Elsjé (Koetsier) Defty

My name is Elsjé (Koetsier) Defty, and I am the founder and primary music therapist at Helping Notes. I am passionate about helping people through music and other art forms in therapy.

I believe that creative processes offer unique ways for individuals to explore and express. My work is rooted in a client-centred approach, ensuring that each client's unique needs and goals guide the therapeutic journey.

Connect with Elsjé

BMus

Bachelor of Music from the University of Cape Town

MMus

Master of Music Therapy from the University of Pretoria

HPCSA

Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa

My Approach & Philosophy

I specialise in working with individuals experiencing behavioural, physical, emotional, or learning difficulties. Music therapy is especially valuable for clients who are non-verbal, providing alternative channels for communication, emotional expression, social engagement, and sensory or motor development.

My approach is holistic and client-centred, using music and creative arts. Each therapeutic journey is unique, guided by the individual needs and goals of my clients.

"Above all, my goal is for each client to leave our sessions with a sense of growth, personal development, and improved well-being."

Built with v0