Music Therapy has been shown to have a significant effect on an individual’s relaxation, respiration rate, self-reported pain reduction, and behaviorally observed and self-reported anxiety levels. A coordinated program of music and music therapy interventions in response to crisis or trauma, designed and implemented by a qualified music therapist, provides opportunities for: • Non-verbal outlets for emotions associated with traumatic experiences • Anxiety and stress reduction • Positive changes in mood and emotional states • Active and positive participant involvement in treatment • Enhanced feelings of control, confidence, and empowerment • Positive physiological changes, such as lower blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and relaxed muscle tension • Emotional intimacy with peers, families, caregivers • Relaxation for family groups or other community and peer groups • Meaningful time spent together in a positive, creative way • Increase in self-esteem • Teach coping skills for emotions that can later be generalized in every-day living.
Group music therapy sessions will include: • Drumming and Drum Circles to increase non-verbal emotional expression and help the clients work together as a group. • Improvisation on various instruments to encourage the creative process, emotional expression, and increase self-esteem. • Progressive muscle relaxation to soothing music to decrease anxiety, fear, and stress associated with crisis and trauma. • Lyric analysis of client preferred music for emotional expression. • Songwriting and composition for an increase in self-confidence and as an outlet for emotional expression. • Guided meditation and imagery to teach clients coping skills for anger, anxiety, and fear associated with crisis, trauma and the disease of addiction.
What is Music Therapy?
Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program. (American Music Therapy Association definition, 2005). Music therapists assess emotional well-being, physical health, social functioning, communication abilities, and cognitive skills through musical responses; design music sessions for individuals and groups based on client needs using music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, music performance, and learning through music; participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning, ongoing evaluation, and follow up. Music therapy can serve children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly with mental health needs, developmental and learning disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease and other aging related conditions, substance abuse problems, brain injuries, physical disabilities, and acute and chronic pain, including mothers in labor. Music therapists work in psychiatric hospitals, rehabilitative facilities, medical hospita...
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