Does music therapy simply consist of music used therapeutically? The short answer is no. This article will explain what music therapy truly entails and go over the different types and most common methods.
— June 28th, 2021
Throughout the years, there have been many different definitions attributed to music therapy. One of the most widely accepted was rendered by professor Kenneth E. Bruscia who defined it as ‘an interpersonal process in which the therapist uses music and all of its facets to help patients to improve, restore or maintain health.’
But, music therapy is much more than using music in a therapeutical environment. It should be administered by trained music therapists who must consider five key factors:
- Modulation of Attention
- Modulation of Emotion
- Modulation of Cognition
- Modulation of Behavior
- Modulation of Communication
Music therapy is a multi-disciplinary field, and the area of music psychology is an innovative interdisciplinary science drawing from the fields of musicology, psychology, acoustics, sociology, anthropology, and neurology.
The Different Types and Methods of Music Therapy
Music-based therapy is based on two fundamental methods – the ‘receptive’ listening-based method and the ‘active’ method based on playing musical instruments. Additionally, there are two receptive methods:
- Receptive ‘relaxation’ music therapy — used to treat anxiety, depression, and cognitive disorders.
- Receptive ‘analytical’ music therapy — used as the medium for ‘analytic’ psychotherapy.
These methods should not be confused with music medicine. The therapist may also ‘prescribe’ music medicine or guided imagery recordings containing music for the client to listen to outside the therapy room by using a digital psychotherapy platform.
Another well-known music therapy method is Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) which is based on neuroscience. It considers the perception and production of music and its influence on the function of the brain and behaviors.
What Does a Music Therapist Do?
Music therapists work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, mental health service locations, and nursing homes. They help a variety of different patients/clients.
A music therapist evaluates each clients’ unique needs. They ascertain a client’s musical preferences and devises a treatment plan that is customized for the individual.
Music therapists are part of a multi-disciplinary team, working with other professionals to ensure treatment also works for the client to achieve their goals. For example, a music therapist could introduce dance into their treatment plan if a person is working on strengthening and movement to address physical limitations.
For more information on music therapy, its uses, methods, and more, you can visit positivepsychology.com.
