Since earning her qualification from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in 2023, Shimona Thevathasan has gained experience working with a variety of client groups, including children with special educational needs and adults with complex neurological disabilities. In December 2025, she also qualified as a Registered Neurologic Music Therapist (NMT™), further specialising in applying evidence-based, neuroscience-informed techniques to support cognitive, motor, speech and psychosocial functioning.

Shimona previously worked as an HCPC-registered music therapist within an NHS  child development service where she collaborated closely with caregivers and multi-disciplinary allied health professionals to support children with profound and complex needs. She also worked alongside a special education company connecting specialists with schools and education providers supporting children with additional needs.

In addition, Shimona led a weekly Singing for Memory group for older adults living with dementia and their carers, and provided individual clinical sessions for both children and adults across a range of community and healthcare settings. 

Shimona’s practice is rooted in a psychodynamic and client-centred approach, emphasising the importance of the therapeutic relationship and creating safe, responsive spaces for growth. She is a strong advocate for equality, diversity, and inclusion in both the workplace and wider community, and actively participates in a network of music therapists who identify as People of Colour: We are Monster. 

Alongside her therapeutic work, Shimona continues to perform as an opera singer, having been named the 2024 Pendine International Voice of the Future. She continues to work regularly as a singing and piano teacher, and previously served as a Music Therapy Instrumental Tutor at Guildhall.