WHAT IS MUSIC THERAPY?
Music therapy is a discipline in which credentialed professionals (MT-BC) 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.
The Canadian Association of Music Therapy
WHO BENEFITS FROM MUSIC THERAPY
Music therapy can benefit anyone. Music therapy has been proven to be especially effective with the following:
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Developmental Disorders
Global Delays
Down Syndrome
Learning Disabilities
Speech Disorders
Mental Health
Dementia
Alzheimers
Parkinsons
Behavioural Disorders
Cerebral Palsy
Physical Disabilities
WHAT HAPPENS IN A MUSIC THERAPY SESSION
Adapted from the Canadian Association of Music Therapy Website
Certified music therapists use various active and receptive interventions and techniques tailored to the needs and preferences of the individuals with whom they work. These techniques include, but are not limited to the following:
Singing
Songwriting
Free and Guided Improvisation
Musically Supported Talk Therapy
Musical Role Playing
Music for Relaxation
Composing
Music and Movement
Lyric Analysis
Activity-Based Music Intervention
Music Listening
Imagery and Music
Rhythm Based Activities
COMMON GOAL AREAS ADDRESSED IN MUSIC THERAPY
Gross Motor Skills
Fine Motor Skills
Appropriate Social Behaviours and Interactions
Emotional Regulation
Academic Concepts
Self-Awareness
Impulse Control
Speech Production
Non-Verbal Communication Skills
Mood Enhancement
Cognitive Development
Problem Solving Skills
Reminiscence
Reality Orientation
Self-Expression
Self-Confidence
Pain Management
LINKS AND RESOURCES
Canadian Association of Music Therapy
www.musictherapy.ca/about-camt-music-therapy/about-music-therapy/
Music Therapy Association of Alberta
Music Therapy - Autism Canada
autismcanada.org/living-with-autism/treatments/related/music-therapy/
American Association of Music Therapy
