Music Therapy (MT) is an evidence-based practice that uses music as a medium to accomplish therapeutic goals in a clinical setting. Those individualized goals may address issues of cognition, academic concepts, motor functioning, emotional & spiritual needs, or socialization. The interweaving relationship between the individual(s), the music, and the credentialed professional, establish a success-oriented therapeutic relationship. MT interventions are used to assess, develop, and maintain individualized goals. Interventions involve the process of active music listening, creating, sharing, developing and working through challenges. Research continues to dig deeper into the evidence that supports its value in our world today. (American Music Therapy Association, Certification Board for Music Therapists)
Music Therapy may be provided in an individual or group setting. People of all ages and abilities benefit from MT treatment (Children, Adolescents, Adults & Elderly).
Music Therapists provide treatment in the following settings:
Music is the heart of the therapeutic relationship that develops between client and therapist, as social interactions meet with moving emotions found in musical improvisations and performance, the individual is able to creatively express and release emotions through sound.
MT Interventions are based on the client needs and use composition, singing, moving, and listening to music to assess, address, and evaluate progress. The interventions may be designed:
Most MT interventions address multiple goals at the same time.
What an intervention involves:
Music therapists work within a variety of styles and modalities, and adapt the use of music for the individual or group of clients they are working with. Interventions are designed to promote health and healing, and progress towards individualized growth.