JEFFERSON CITY (AP) – Missouri lawmakers are pushing for music therapists to obtain state certification and access to funding through a program for infants born with developmental delays.

Music therapy uses music to help individuals reach therapeutic goals in the physical, cognitive and social-emotional areas.

Cape Girardeau Republican Rep. Kathy Swan says she wants to find a way to help young children get access to a service that’s shown clinical results. She and a state senator are sponsoring bills, but neither have received a hearing yet.

Johnna Carrender is the caretaker and step-grandmother of a 7-year old with shaken baby syndrome. She pays out-of-pocket for music therapy because she says it’s a way to help him tap into his abilities and bring joy to his life.