​How does Music Therapy help with mental health needs?

​Music therapy is an efficacious and valid treatment for persons who have psychosocial, affective, cognitive and communicative needs. Research results and clinical experiences attest to the viability of music therapy even in those who are resistive to other treatment approaches. Music is a form of sensory stimulation that provokes responses due to the familiarity, predictability and feelings of security associated with it. Music therapy for clients with mental health concerns uses musical interaction as a means of communication and expression. The aim of therapy is to help individuals develop relationships and address issues they may not be able to address using words alone. (AMTA 2006)

Music Therapy interventions provide opportunities to

  • Build coping skills to manage anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms
  • Support emotional regulation
  • Explore personal feelings and issues
  • Make positive changes in mood and emotional states
  • Have a sense of control over life
  • Enhance awareness of self and environment
  • Express oneself both verbally and non-verbally
  • Develop coping and relaxation skills
  • Support healthy feelings and thoughts
  • Improve reality testing and problem solving skills
  • Interact socially with others
  • Develop decision making skills
  • Adopt positive forms of behavior
  • Improve motivation

Music Therapy sessions include

  • Active Music Making
  • Playing or Learning instruments
  • Singing
  • Songwriting
  • Music listening and discussion
  • Lyric analysis
  • Playlist Building