Anyone with a treasured album collection knows that music has the power to heal.
But music therapy goes far beyond a relaxing replay. Music therapy is proven to heal physical and psychological issues. It offers a variety of creative expressions that can be tailored to clients facing different problems.
While each method offers different advantages, they all share the same general benefits of music therapy. Music therapy methods have several benefits, including:
What it is: A method where the client composes music with the assistance of a therapist. These compositions can contain both lyrics and instruments.
Who it’s for: Composing music is a great way to get creative. This confidence-boosting method is ideal for clients struggling with self-esteem or processing grief.
What it is: Spontaneous song creating. The music therapist interprets their client’s mood based on the sounds and lyrics of their compositions.
Who it’s for: This method forces the client to make choices, making it ideal for a client that struggles with confidence or self-expression. Improvisation is therapeutic for those dealing with trauma or other issues that they don’t feel comfortable directly talking about.
What it is: The therapist plays music for their clients to respond to. The client can express their thoughts through words, their own compositions, or dance.
Who it’s for: Listening to music can calm the nerves of clients with anxiety. This method is also beneficial for patients with hearing or memory issues.
What it is: In this method, the client will recreate the music played by the therapist. The client can sing the lyrics or recreate the instrumentals.
Who it’s for: This method fine tunes motor skills, making it perfect for clients struggling with developmental issues. This includes patients with dementia and children with movement disorders.
Have a passion for music?
As a music therapist, you and your clients can connect over what you love. A music therapy degree gives you the psychological and musical knowledge that clients need.
Visit Drury University’s website for more information on our music therapy program.
