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. It is an established health service similar to occupational therapy and physical therapy and consists of using music therapeutically to address physical, psychological, cognitive and/or social functioning for patients of all ages. Because music therapy is a powerful and non-invasive medium, unique outcomes are possible. In addition to its applications in mental health, music therapy is used successfully in a variety of additional healthcare and educational settings.

Why is Music so Effective?

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. Music therapy sessions include the use of active music making, music listening, and discussion.

What do Music Therapists Do?

Music therapists use music strategies, both instrumental and vocal, which are designed to facilitate changes that are non-musical in nature. Music selections and certain active music making activities are modified for client preferences and individualized needs (i.e., song selection and music may vary). Music therapy programs are based on individual assessment, treatment planning, and ongoing program evaluation. Frequently functioning as members of an interdisciplinary team, music therapists implement programs with groups or individuals that display a vast continuum of needs, from reduction of anxiety to deeper self-understanding.

What Kinds of Goals are Addressed?

Music therapists work with the interdisciplinary team to assess emotional well being, physical health, social functioning, communication abilities, and cognitive skills through musical responses. When individualized music experiences are designed by the music therapist to fit functional abilities and needs, responses may be immediate and readily apparent. Clients need not have a music background to benefit from music therapy. Music therapy intervention provides opportunities to:

1. •Explore personal feelings and therapeutic issues such as self-esteem or personal insight
   

1. •Make positive changes in mood and emotional states
   

1. •Have a sense of control over life through successful experiences
   

1. •Enhance awareness of self and environment
   

1. •Express oneself both verbally and non-verbally
   

1. •Develop coping and relaxation skills
   

1. •Support healthy feelings and thoughts
   

1. •Improve reality testing and problem solving skills
   

1. •Interact socially with others
   

1. •Develop independence and decision making skills
   

1. •Improve concentration and attention span
   

1. •Adopt positive forms of behavior
   

• Resolve conflicts leading to stronger family and peer relationships

Who is Qualified as a Music Therapist?

Graduates of colleges or universities from more than 70 approved music therapy programs are eligible to take a national examination administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT), an independent, non-profit certifying agency fully accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. After successful completion of the CBMT examination, graduates are issued the credential necessary for professional practice, Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC). In addition to the MT-BC credential, other recognized professional designations are Registered Music Therapists (RMT), Certified Music Therapists (CMT), and Advanced Certified Music Therapist (ACMT) listed with the National Music Therapy Registry. Any individual who does not have proper training and credentials is not qualified to provide music therapy services.

Where do Music Therapists Work?

Music therapists offer services in psychiatric treatment centers, outpatient clinics, community mental health centers, substance abuse programs, group homes, rehabilitation facilities, medical hospitals, senior centers, schools, hospice and other facilities. Some music therapists specialize in mental health and have additional training in advanced music therapy techniques and psychology. Some music therapists are self-employed and may be hired on a contractual basis to provide assessment, consultation, and treatment services for children and adults.

What Research And Resources Are Available To Substantiate And Support Music Therapy?

AMTA has promoted a vast amount of research exploring the benefits of music as treatment through publication of the Journal of Music Therapy, Music Therapy Perspectives, and other resources. The CD-ROM “Music Therapy Research - Quantitative and Qualitative Foundations” offers a complete collection of research published by the music therapy associations in the United States from 1964 through 2003.