Music Therapy

Music therapy is a discipline in which credentialed professionals (MTA*) use music purposefully within therapeutic relationships to support development, health, and well-being. Music therapists use music safely and ethically to address human needs within cognitive, communicative, emotional, musical, physical, social, and spiritual domains.

*Music Therapist Accredited/Musicothérapeute accrédité

Canadian Association of Music Therapists
 

Neurologic Music Therapy

(NMT) is a research-based system of 20 standardized clinical techniques for sensorimotor training, speech and language training, and cognitive training. It’s treatment techniques are based on the scientific knowledge in music perception and production and the effects thereof on nonmusical brain and behavior functions. Populations served by Neurologic Music Therapists include, but are not limited to: stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and other neurological diseases affecting cognition, movement, and communication (e.g., MS, Muscular Dystrophy, etc). NMT encompasses neurologic rehabilitation, neuropediatric, neuropsychiatric, neurogeriatric, and neurodevelopmental therapy. Therapeutic goals and interventions address rehabilitation, development, and maintenance of functional behaviors (Thaut, 2015).

The Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy

Who benefits from music therapy

Music therapy can be adapted for persons of any age and ability.  It is used to address a wide range of needs including:  

•Autism  •Alzheimer's Disease  •Anxiety  •Depression  •Developmental Disabilities  •Dementia  

•Emotional Trauma  •Hearing Impairments   •Mental Health Issues  •Pain  •Physical Disabilities

•Speech and Language Impairments   •Substance Abuse  •Stroke  •Traumatic Brain Injury

•Personal Growth  •Post Traumatic Stress Disorder  •Visual Impairment

You can find music therapy in a variety of settings including:

•Geriatric Care  •Hospitals  •Mental Health Facilities  •Neonatal Care  •Obstetrics  •Oncology

•Palliative Care  •Correctional Facilities  •Private Practice   •Rehabilitation Facilities  •Schools

•Teens at Risk Programs  

Why Music works as therapy

There are many reasons why using music and musical elements are effective as a therapy.  

•Music activates many areas of the brain

•Music is accessible to everyone

•Music has clear structures

•Music creates expectations

•Music is motivating

The Music therapy process

Music therapy sessions can look very different depending on the primary focus of the session.  There are both group and individual music therapy options.  Group sessions may be designed for a specific purpose such as improving memory or attention, reducing anxiety, or maintaining physical abilities (muscle tone, balance, endurance) while individual sessions are tailored for one person and could include a wider range of goals. The music therapy process should always include:

• Assessment
• Goals
• Reassessment 
• Progress reports