Naviella Dowds

Trustee

Naviella Dowds is a Music Therapist, researcher, and creative practitioner specialising in rap, hip-hop, and DJ therapy within contemporary Music Therapy practice. She is the Founder and CEO of Lyrical Minds, the first rap, hip-hop, and DJ therapy organisation in the United Kingdom, dedicated to supporting mental health, emotional wellbeing, and empowerment through music, lyricism, and creative expression.

Naviella completed her Master’s degree in Music Therapy at UWE Bristol (University of the West of England) and is currently affiliated with Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where her PhD research explores the therapeutic benefits of rap and hip-hop in Music Therapy practice.

Recognised as the first registered Music Therapist in the United Kingdom to pioneer rap, hip-hop, and DJ therapy within clinical and community settings, Naviella’s work challenges traditional approaches to therapy by creating culturally responsive and accessible spaces for expression, identity, healing, and connection. Her practice integrates songwriting, beat-making, spoken word, freestyle, and DJ techniques to engage young people and diverse communities in meaningful therapeutic experiences.
Through Lyrical Minds, Naviella also delivers a range of CPD training courses for Music Therapists, educators, youth practitioners, and mental health professionals, helping to expand understanding of culturally informed and contemporary therapeutic interventions. Her work is recognised as groundbreaking within the UK Music Therapy profession, paving the way for new interventions and broader conversations around representation, accessibility, and innovation in therapeutic practice.

As a Board Member and Trustee of BAMT, Naviella is committed to shaping the future of the profession through advocacy, inclusion, and creative leadership. She is passionate about developing new pathways within Music Therapy that reflect the lived experiences, cultures, and voices of contemporary communities.