SIPARI® is a directed music-supported treatment approach developed to improve language and speech capabilities of patients suffering from chronic aphasia. SIPARI® was developed by Dr. Jungblut and was first tried and tested in cooperation with the Medical Faculty of the University of Witten-Herdecke, Germany. In a controlled group-study with patients suffering from chronic non-fluent aphasia (average duration of aphasia: 11 years) significant improvements of 75% of all patients were assessed by a standardized language procedure, the Aachener Aphasie Test (AAT). In 2010 SIPARI® was listed in the Cochrane Review “Music therapy for acquired brain injury” in the category “communication” as the only evidence-based method. ref.: Bradt J, Magee WL, Dileo C, Wheeler BL, McGilloway E. Music therapy for acquired brain injury. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2010, Issue 7. Art. No.: CD006787. DOI: 10.1002/14651858. CD006787.pub2. Meanwhile, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) as well as further single case studies substantiate the extraordinary efficacy of SIPARI® in the treatment of severely impaired chronic aphasia patients and also patients who additionally suffer from apraxia of speech. Music and language consist of melodic and rhythmic elements, although these basic components are differently emphasized. Undoubtedly, the human voice represents the most direct connection between music and language. Starting from singing towards intonation up to prosody, the human voice takes over a bridging function, which combines rhythmic and melodic components in a unique manner because transitions can be produced step by step. Therefore, specifically targeted rhythmic- melodic voice training represents the starting point of the SIPARI® method. Apart from the voice, further instruments are used. Rhythmic cognition trainings, which are performed on instruments, vocally or in combination serve to encourage planning and sequencing performance. Another basic component of this method constitutes joint instrument playing on instruments, which can be used without any musical experience. These communication trainings support social interaction but also promote cognitive functions (e.g. attention, working memory).

Treatment objectives using SIPARI® include improving linguistic, motor, and cognitive functions and thereby supporting speech- motor processes and those speech-systematic processes that encourage planning and sequencing performance. The SIPARI® treatment is offered as individual as well as group therapy. The duration of an indivual therapy session is 45 minutes. If required, home visits can be arranged. There is no agreement to cover costs by health insurances. At the beginning, a SIPARI® diagnostic examination is conducted in order to make sure that this treatment is suitable for the respective patient. In order to intensify motor and cognitive improvement, training- CDs and DVDs can be purchased for home training from therapists who successfully completed the SIPARI® training. Appointments by arrangement If you have further questions, please contact Dr. rer. medic. Monika Jungblut Am Lipkamp 14 Duisburg tel. ++49 203-711319