Mrs Anita Connell

Dr Anita Connell's research focuses on two intersecting strands. The first focuses on reducing dementia risk and mitigating cognitive decline in older adults through scalable, music-based arts and health approaches. The second examines evaluation frameworks and implementation methods to inform organisational policy and program design to strengthen family-centred health, mental health and wellbeing, and disability supports.

Drawing on expertise in music therapy, music psychology, and mixed-methods research evaluation, Anita collaborates with clinicians, families, educators, community organisations, and creative arts practitioners to explore how music and relational approaches promote cognitive health, emotional development, and social connection.

Anita is particularly committed to early intervention and prevention frameworks aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those relating to quality education, inclusion, good health and wellbeing, and healthy ageing.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO RESEARCH, & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Postdoctoral research contribtions span rigorous empirical research, interdisciplinary collaboration, program evaluation, and sector advocacy across ageing, dementia care, and parent-child mental health. Recent work as part of a research team at the MARCS Institute, Western Sydney University, conducted in partnership with Dementia Australia (2025), has involved consultations with executive-level school and sports sector stakeholders to inform a large-scale study promoting brain health among young people in schools and sporting organisations.

Evaluation of ReachOut’s parent coaching service (completion Jan 2026), which provides caregivers with evidence-based strategies to support their child’s mental health. This evaluation will inform organisational decision-making, program refinement, and policy directions for the organisation to enhance family wellbeing and adolescent mentla health.

Evaluating the effectiveness of personalised music listening interventions for people living with dementia in residential aged care (2025). This work included providing training, support, and consultation to caregivers to embed the intervention into individualised behaviour support plans, in line with Royal Commission recommendations for person-centred care. 

Additional contributions include significant advocacy work for the Australian Music Therapy Association (2023-2025) and engagement in policy reform. This work supports professional development and amplifies practice-based knowledge across the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), allied health and community settings.

RELATED PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Director and Registered Music Therapist: Tuned In Connections and Tuned In Music Therapy

• Leadership of a music therapy team to design and implement  evidence-based music therapy programs supporting cognition,communication, and emotional well-being for children, adolescents and young adults with disabilities.

Corporate and Public Sector (retail, banking & education), 2006-2012: Leadership and Development Consultant

• Supported organisational culture change and people capability initiatives designing experiental learning programs, collaborating and consulting with executive teams across retail, banking and education.