What is Music Therapy?

“Rhythm turns listeners into participants, makes listening active and motoric, and synchronizes the brains and minds (and since emotion is always intertwined with music, the “hearts”) of all who participate. Therefore, rhythm binds people together, builds community, and cements human connection on a neurophysiological level.”
-Sacks & Landless-

Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.

Music Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals.

After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the qualified music therapist provides the indicated treatment including creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. (AMTA)

Why Music Therapy?

Music is a non-invasive therapy medium that is both success-oriented and motivating. The Process of making music is interactive, supportive, and playful. This "lubricates the process of change".

-Waters-

Music Therapy services can address goals including (but not limited to):

Increase appropriate social skills (sharing, turn taking, following directions)
Provides an outlet for self-expression (non-verbal/verbal) and creativity
Improve attention to task and increase positive behavior
Improve independence and leadership skills
Improve mood and regulate emotional states
Improve fine and gross motor skills
Develop appropriate recreational/ leisure skills
Improve problem solving skills
Develop individualized coping skills for everyday stressors
Improve self-esteem and quality of life
Improve pre-literacy and academic skills
Improve impulse control
Improve effective communication
Group Cohesion
Ability to recall information