Everything You Need to Know about Music Therapy
We all know someone who has been impacted by music. Whether it is a family member a close friend, it almost seems impossible to imagine living in a world with no music.
Whether it’s the radio or the songs of nature we listen to, it almost seems as if everyone has that one song they run to for comfort after a long day.
My nephew is on the autism spectrum. He is the most fun, loving and kind boy I have the pleasure of knowing. He struggles, however, communicating how he feels. But then, there is that “Oo Na Na” song by Camila Cabello we all know.
My nephew not only knows how to get down to the popular song, but after he listens to it, there is a night and day difference in his attitude; a sense of relief and comfort can be seen in his eyes.
Music is truly an incredible gift and research behind the effects of music is constantly explored in this age of information.
Many people don’t understand the true impact music therapy has on its patients. Although it seems as if it is a new therapy technique, it has actually been around for over 200 years.
Music therapy is defined as “the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.”
Research regarding music therapy has come a long way since its beginnings in the 1800s, and it is continually progressing through new studies and adapting technologies.
My nephew is just one testament of the tremendous impact music therapy techniques have had on millions of lives over the past two centuries.
What are some of these music therapy techniques used today, you ask? Here is a list of just a few of the many techniques out there.
Common Music Therapy Techniques:
VibroAcoustic therapy (VAT) is one of the most commonly used therapies that professional therapists across the U.S. are currently using. VAT essentially uses soundwaves of music to transfer throughout the human body by causing internal vibrations.
Orff-Schulwerk is a music therapy with the goal of improving the learning ability of children and their interactions with others.
Kodaly is a music therapy focused on the rhythm and beat of music to improve patients coordination.
Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music is a therapy that uses specific types of music to match images stimulating both the audio and visuals of patients. This can improve inner peace and a better self-concept within patients.
The following equipment contains just a few of the tools children often use in music therapy:
- Handbells
- Electronic blood pressure units
- Electronic keyboards
- Rhythm Sticks
- Music Parachute
Some of these items such as rhythm sticks, keyboards and handbells may seem quite simple, although, they are still considered some of the most effective music therapy tools used for children. I would highly recommend the music parachute. It is one of my nephew’s favorites!
Items such as blood pressure units and music parachutes are just as effective to children, although some individuals are more affected by sound stimulation when having visual stimulation hand-in-hand (such as the music parachute provides).
My nephew wouldn’t be where he is today without the amazing music therapists who have worked using different techniques with him. Using music as a tool to better his health has been the best form of therapy for him.
Through watching my nephew’s journey I have learned to never be afraid to ask for help and never to feel silly for doing whatever it takes to take care of you or your loved ones.
