Music Therapy

Music therapists use music to help improve a person's health. We use music as a form of therapy. Most people know that the playing of music can be mood changing, relaxing or invigorating. Music can also be used therapeutically to address a wide variety of needs such as anxiety reduction, pain reduction, tolerance to medical procedures, cognitive functioning, stress management, depression, disability, self-expression and communication.

Music is an effective non-verbal means of non-verbal communication. It to bring feelings, memories and ideas to the surface. Music is also used therapeutically to treat depression, anxiety, cognitive functioning, pain and stress, and can assist with self-expression, communication and rehabilitation. Music creates measurable physiological responses such as increased heart rate, changes in breathing, flushing of the face, skin sensations, cognitive, emotional and hormonal changes.

Music has intrinsic qualities which make it a very effective catalyst in therapy. Since the development of the brain scan, scientists have been able to “map” the brain. That is, work out what areas of the brain are used for the many different brain functions (speech, the senses, emotions). They have observed electronically the areas in the brain that “light up” when being used.

The fascinating thing about music is that it “lights up” the entire brain – from the subconscious to the highest executive functioning. This is why music can evoke extra-musical responses. So in a therapeutic situation, there is usually a way of reaching a person and addressing their needs through music – the challenge of the music therapist is to find the right piece of music for each situation.

What does a music therapist do?

The music therapist is a trained and qualified musician and clinical specialist who understands the ways in which music can assist individuals, groups and organizations in achieving therapeutic goals.

In Australia, a fully qualified music therapist is recognized by the title Registered Music Therapist (RMT). Music therapists complete a course at a university and must hold accreditation with the Australian Music Therapy Association (www.austmta.org.au) to be able to practice as an RMT.

Music therapists firstly assess individuals or groups to establish their needs. In consultation with members of any team working with the individual or group, they then plan and implement a suitable musical program to address these needs. They can also help groups, communities and organisations achieve their goals. Music therapy programs are documented and evaluated to assess their effectiveness.

Music therapists employ several techniques to address the identified needs of groups or individuals. These include: msong singing, music listening, song writing, facilitated discussion, dance and movement, relaxation, storytelling and humour.

Music therapists work in hospitals, in private homes, aged care facilities, community facilities, organizations, drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities and in private practices.