The healing power of music

Music therapy, also known as sound therapy, employs music as a therapeutic modality. The goal is the use of musical interventions to accomplish goals within a therapeutic relationship. Music therapy sessions typically include making and listening to music, followed by discussion. After an assessment, music therapy treatment can include creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music. Moreover, music therapy is based on psychological disciplines like psychodynamic, behavioral, and humanistic therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, music therapy opens up avenues for communication that transcend the limitations of verbal expression. Consequently, this form of therapy can be particularly impactful for teens. Additionally, it has been used to foster emotional balance, while also providing insight into feelings below the surface that need to be expressed. There are two different forms of music therapy, active and receptive. Active music therapy—the therapist and the client(s) create music with instruments, their voices, or other objects. Receptive music therapy—the therapist plays or makes music as the client listens. Benefits of Music Therapy When it is used to support mental health, it provides opportunities to

• Explore feelings around issues such as self-esteem or personal insight

• Make positive changes in mood and emotional states

• Enhance your sense of control over life by having successful experiences

• Increase awareness of self and environment

• Express oneself both verbally and non-verbally

• Develop coping and relaxation skills

• Support healthy feelings and thoughts

• Improve reality-testing and problem-solving skills

• Interact socially with others

• Develop independence and decision-making skills

• Improve concentration and attention span

• Adopt positive forms of behavior

• Resolve conflicts, leading to stronger family and peer relationships.

Therefore, the outcomes of music therapy include the following:

• Reduced muscle tension

• Improved self-image

• Better self-esteem

• Decreased anxiety/agitation

• More skillful verbalization

• Enhanced interpersonal relationships

• Stronger group cohesiveness

• Increased motivation

• Successful and safe emotional release.

—Source: American Music Therapy Association