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Music Therapy Techniques
Learning to play an instrument is an excellent musical activity to develop motor skills
in individuals with developmental delays, brain injuries, or other motor impairment. It
is also an exercise in impulse control and group cooperation. Creative movement is
another activity that can help to improve coordination, as well as strength, balance,
and gait. Improvisation facilitates the non-verbal expression of emotion. It
encourages socialization and communication about feelings as well.
Singing develops articulation, rhythm, and breath control. Remembering lyrics and
melody is an exercise in sequencing for stroke victims and others who may be
intellectually impaired. Composition of words and music is one avenue available to
assist the patient in working through fears and negative feelings. Listening is an
excellent way to practice attending and remembering. It may also make the patient
aware of memories and emotions that need to be acknowledged and perhaps talked
about. Singing and discussion is a similar method, which is used with some patient
populations to encourage dialogue.
Guided Imagery and Music is a very popular technique developed by music therapist
Helen Bonny. Listening to music is used as a path to invoke emotions, picture, and
symbols from the patient. This is a bridge to the exploration and expression of
feelings.
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