Discover the Healing Power of Music Therapy
- Noel Anderson, MMT, MT-BC
- Aug 29
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 17
When you think of therapy, you might picture sitting in a room with a counselor. You may imagine diving deep into your past experiences and feelings. While this traditional method is valuable, it isn't the only way to heal. If you or someone you love responds better to music or movement, music therapy might be the perfect fit. But what exactly is music therapy?
At its core, music therapy helps clients work towards their goals using music. It’s not about entertainment; it’s about unlocking emotions and using music as a tool for your journey. This approach is tailored to you as an individual, with your therapist customizing their method to fit your unique situation and musical preferences.
Want to find out more? Read on to discover our comprehensive guide to music therapy.
How Does Music Therapy Work?
Music therapy removes the pressure that can come from sitting on a therapist’s couch. It creates a space for emotions to flow freely, allowing you to navigate your challenges. This method encourages you to express yourself in a more relaxed manner.
Music therapy isn't just for emotional challenges. It can also support those with physical health conditions. It can improve motor skills, coordination, and even reduce the perception of pain in chronic conditions, as noted by Musicians Without Borders.
Benefits of Music Therapy
If you've ever felt uplifted by your favorite song or moved by certain melodies, you've experienced music's power. Music therapy harnesses this energy, along with the physical movement involved in playing an instrument.
The benefits of music therapy are extensive and can apply to many people. Here are some key advantages:
Reduce stress, anxiety, and depression
Improve cognitive functioning
Help with communication challenges
Encourage self-expression
Aid in recalling important memories
Enhance social functioning
Provide emotional relief
Boost memory
Assist with pain relief
Improve sleep quality
And much more
One of the greatest benefits of music therapy is its adaptability. It’s a non-invasive approach that can be tailored to each client. Many people find it more comfortable than traditional talking therapies. You can move around and choose which instruments to engage with, making it especially suitable for children, teens, and older adults with conditions like dementia.
Who Can Benefit?
As we've mentioned, everyone can benefit from music therapy. However, it is particularly effective for children, teens, and older adults.
Children
Children with special needs can gain immense benefits, especially if they struggle with emotional processing. It can be challenging for children to express their feelings safely, which can lead to what is often labeled as bad behavior. Music therapy provides these children with a way to share their emotions, helping parents and caregivers understand them better. It also offers a safe outlet for working through feelings.
Teens
Adolescents face numerous challenges, from identity development to peer relationships and academic pressures. Many struggle to articulate their feelings, leading to frustration or withdrawal. Music therapy offers a creative outlet for self-expression. It allows teens to explore their emotions, build coping skills, and develop healthy communication methods. This support can significantly boost their confidence and self-esteem during this critical stage of life.
Older Adults
As we age, memory loss can become a significant issue, often accompanied by anxiety or depression. Additionally, physical mobility may decline. Music therapy can address these challenges by improving memory recall, enhancing social interaction, and boosting cognitive functioning. It can also aid in improving motor skills. Group sessions in nursing homes or community settings can amplify the social benefits of music therapy.
Music therapy is particularly effective for adults with Alzheimer’s disease. Music is closely linked to memory, and familiar songs can help seniors access memories from their past. In fact, musical memories often remain intact despite Alzheimer’s disease, making music therapy a powerful tool.
What a Session Looks Like
There’s no ‘typical’ music therapy session. Each one is personalized, tailored to meet individual needs. However, sessions often include a mix of improvisation, listening to music, songwriting, and live music recreation, where the therapist accompanies the client. Each technique is chosen based on the client’s goals and treatment plan, which is established after an initial consultation.
How to Access Music Therapy Services
While some individuals may qualify for grants or have sessions covered by private insurance, many will need to pay for their treatment privately. The first step is to reach out to your chosen music therapist. Typically, you’ll begin with a consultation where both you and the therapist can discuss whether music therapy is a good fit. From there, your therapist will guide you through a suggested treatment plan.
Training & Credentials of Music Therapists
When choosing a music therapist, it’s crucial to look for specific credentials. This ensures you’re working with a qualified professional. To become a Board Certified Music Therapist, an individual must earn a degree in Music Therapy from an accredited college program. This includes 200 hours of clinical practicum and a 1000-hour internship. After completing their internship, they can take a test to become Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC). That’s a lot of training, highlighting the importance of selecting someone with the right qualifications.
In addition to their general education, some music therapists pursue further qualifications in areas like neuroscience, neonatal care, or hospice and palliative care.
Access The Power Of Music Therapy
Everyone faces challenging times – even musicians. Music therapy offers a supportive route to navigate these challenges in a safe, welcoming environment. With the guidance of a licensed music therapist, you can work towards your goals and find a safe space to express your emotions. Learn more on our website, or get in touch today.