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When is Music Therapy prescribed?
Music therapy is the prescribed use of music and musical interventions in order to
restore, maintain, and improve emotional, physical, physiological, and spiritual health
and well-being. Within this definition are the key elements that define interventions as
music therapy.
Abroad, music therapy is essentially prescribed by members of the client's treatment
team, which can include doctors, social workers, psychologists, teachers, case
workers or parents.
Music is the primary therapeutic tool. Using music to establish a trusting relationship,
the music therapist then works to improve the client's physical and mental functioning
through carefully structured activities. Examples can include singing, listening, playing
instruments, composition, moving to music, and music and imagery exercises.
Music is administered by a trained music therapist. A music therapist's education and
training is extensive. Musical interventions are developed and used by the therapist
based on his/her knowledge of the music's effect on behavior, the client's strengths
and weaknesses, and the therapeutic goals.
Music therapy works towards specific therapeutic goals and objectives. Goal areas
include communicative, academic, motor, emotional, and social skills. It is important
to be aware that while clients may develop their musical skills during treatment, these
skills are not the primary concern of the therapist. Rather it is the effect such musical
development might have on the client's physical, psychological and socio economical
functioning.
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