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Who Are Music Therapists? Music therapists' objectives are to determine and utilize music therapy approaches that effectively aid in the restoration, maintenance, and improvement in mental and physical health.Music therapists believe in the dignity and worth of every person.
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Music therapy draws on the power of music in a therapeutic relationship to manage a range of conditions and improve your quality of life. A music therapist tailors sessions to your needs. You may sing or play instruments, listen to music or discuss the meaning of lyrics. You don’t need musical skills, and people of all ages can benefit.
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Where does music therapy take place?
Music therapy takes place in many different settings, including: Hospitals. Schools. Nursing homes. Senior centers. Outpatient clinics. Mental health centers. Residences for people with developmental disabilities. Treatment facilities for people with substance use disorders. Correctional facilities.
What happens before music therapy?
Your music therapist will assess your needs and strengths. You may discuss your: Emotional well-being. Physical health. Social functioning. Perceptual/motor skills. Communication abilities. Cognitive skills. Musical background, skills and preferences. Trauma history. Trauma triggers. Your music therapist will work with you to identify goals and design appropriate experiences for your session. In doing so, they’ll consider: Your music preferences and interests. Your age and developmental level. Your physical and cognitive abilities. Your trauma triggers. Advertisement
What happens during a music therapy session?
Your music therapist will guide you in making and/or listening to music during your session. You may do one or more of the following: Create music. You compose music, write lyrics or make up music together. Sing music. You use your voice to share a piece of music. Play an instrument. You use an instrument like a guitar, drums or piano to share music. Improvise. You and your therapist work together to make music and sounds that reflect how you’re feeling. This may involve singing and/or playing instruments. Move to music. This can be as simple as tapping your toes together or as complicated as a coordinated dance. Listen to music. With directed listening, your therapist makes music or plays a recording, and you listen to it. You then talk about the music and use it to help process your emotions or experiences. Your therapist may also play music to relax you, using the rhythm to guide you in breathing or stretching. Discuss lyrics. You read or listen to the lyrics of a song and talk about their meaning.
What are the potential benefits of music therapy?
The benefits you gain depend on the condition or symptoms you’re treating and your goals for music therapy. Your music therapist can explain more about what you might expect in your unique situation. In general, research shows that music therapy may: Help you relax. Help you explore your emotions. Reduce anxiety or depression. Ease your stress levels. Regulate your mood. Strengthen your communication skills. Improve speaking and language skills. Build social skills. Strengthen your self-confidence. Help you form healthy coping skills. Develop your problem-solving skills. Reduce perceived levels of pain. Improve your physical coordination, motor functions and movement. Improve your quality of life.
What are the risks of music therapy?
Music therapy is safe and low risk. But it’s possible for music to trigger painful or unexpected memories for you. To lower the chances of this happening, your music therapist will talk to you about your life experiences. These include any history of trauma or other aspects that may influence your response to music. Sharing this information, to the extent that you’re comfortable, will allow your therapist to tailor the session to your needs. Your therapist will do everything possible to create a comfortable, safe and meaningful experience for you.
How many music therapy sessions do I need?
It depends on your treatment goals. You’ll work with your music therapist to decide how many sessions you’d like, how long they should be and how often you should meet.
When should I call my healthcare provider?
Contact your music therapist any time you want to discuss: Your music therapy treatment goals. How you’re feeling in response to music therapy. The timing or scheduling of your appointments. Any questions or concerns you have. Contact your primary care physician or other healthcare providers if you want to discuss: Other aspects of your treatment plan, including medications or their side effects. New or changing symptoms.
What is the difference between music therapy and therapeutic music?
Music therapy is a healthcare profession in which a qualified music therapist designs your sessions with specific, individualized goals in mind. Therapeutic music is a method for relaxing you or lifting your emotions in times of need. It doesn’t require a music therapist and can involve a range of experiences. This can be as simple as listening to calming music through headphones. Music can positively influence your emotions wherever you hear it, including in hospitals or schools. This is why some healthcare professionals, like nurses, play music at the bedside to help people who are recovering or in pain. But these experiences aren’t the same as music therapy, in which a music therapist designs a treatment plan for you and guides each session. A music therapist can help you understand more about the unique aspects of music therapy and how it may benefit you. They can also explain how you may use music in your daily life, outside of your sessions, to enjoy other benefits.
How can I become a music therapist?
In the U.S., you can become a music therapist by: Earning a bachelor’s degree in music therapy. The American Music Therapy Association offers a list of colleges and universities with approved programs. Your curriculum will include classes in music, music therapy, psychology and biology, among other areas. You’ll also complete 1,200 hours of clinical training, which includes an internship in a healthcare or educational setting. Getting certified. The Certification Board for Music Therapists issues a national exam that sets the standard for music therapy professionals. Passing this exam gives you the Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC) credential. You’ll need to engage in professional development activities to stay certified. Board certification is voluntary, but many states require it for you to legally work as a music therapist. You may need to meet additional requirements, like obtaining a state license, depending on the state where you live or work. You can learn more by contacting the American Music Therapy Association or speaking with a mentor or professor. A note from Cleveland Clinic Music can bring people together, and it can also heal. Music therapy builds upon these possibilities of music in a clinical context. Together with your music therapist, you’ll set goals and work toward achieving them. Your therapist will talk with you each step of the way to see how you’re feeling. They’ll design each session just for you and continue to adapt sessions to your evolving interests and needs. It’s important to keep in mind that music therapy isn’t just for children. Adults of all ages can also benefit. If you’re interested in music therapy for your child, talk to your pediatrician about how you can connect with a music therapist to learn more. Medically Reviewed Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 07/18/2023. Learn more about our editorial process.
Feb 13, 2024 · Music therapists assess emotional well-being, physical health, social functioning, communication abilities, & cognitive skills through musical responses; design music interventions for individuals and groups based on client needs; & follow up progress. Who is Qualified to Practice Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a form of treatment that uses music within the therapeutic relationship to help accomplish the patient’s individualized goals. This evidence-based...
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Dec 16, 2021 · Frequently Asked Questions. Music therapy is a therapeutic approach that utilizes music to help foster health and well-being. It can involve making music, singing, dancing, listening to music, or talking about music. It has been used in adults, children, and even infants.
Nov 14, 2023 · Types. Techniques. Uses. Benefits. Effectiveness. Music therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the naturally mood-lifting properties of music to help people improve their mental health and overall well-being. It’s a goal-oriented intervention that may involve: Making music. Writing songs. Singing. Dancing. Listening to music. Discussing music.
