 How Does Music Therapy Work?
Music is the primary therapeutic tool used to establish a trusting relationship. From within this relationship the Music Therapist works to improve the client's physical and mental functioning through carefully structured interventions. This may include the client creating/improvising the music, playing along to pre-composed music, or listening to music.
It is not necessary for the client to have any previous musical background. How someone plays an instrument, even if it is his or her first time having contact with it creates expressive music and is communicating. Improvising between two people can also allow for musical conversations, opening alternate routes of communication for non-verbal clients as well as those with difficulties expressing themselves verbally.
Processing music uses a different part of the brain than language that often allows clients with brain injuries to sing words with less difficulty than speaking. There are many approaches and therapeutic models that a Music Therapist may draw upon dependent on the need of the client.
What happens in a music therapy session?
There are several different ways Music Therapy can be applied to help each individual:
- Playing Instruments. This encourages self-expression regardless of any past experience playing instruments. This provides a socially acceptable release of tension and anger, plus it helps to build social skills and group participation.
- Listening to music. This is a tool used in sessions to increase attention span and improve memory skills. It can alter behaviour and mood states in addition to providing a non-verbal form of communication and a means of relaxation.
- Movement. The playing of instruments or musical activities facilitates non-verbal communication, self-expression, and the development of fine and gross motor skills. It can also promote the development/maintenance of muscle tone and improve balance and range of motion.
- Singing. This facilitates self-expression, aids in the learning of new concepts, and improves speech and language skills, as well as breath control. It can also build social skills and increase self-esteem.
- Improvising/Composing. This creates the opportunity for the discovery and validation of feelings and emotions. It also encourages instrumental tasks and provides a safe method of communication.
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About Music Therapy