11 Interesting Facts About Music Therapy
Music therapy is a type of treatment that utilizes music to assist patients in managing physical and mental health conditions. This rehabilitative service has been proven to reduce stress, enhance moods, boost concentration levels, and boost self-worth.
Music has been used therapeutically since ancient Greece, when it was used to treat illness and disease. Unfortunately, this concept wasn’t widely accepted until the 20th century.
Over the centuries, music therapy has evolved into a profession with professionals trained to apply its methods to physical and emotional difficulties. Now referred to as AMTA (American Music Therapy Association), a 2012 survey revealed that there are more than 7 percent of music therapists working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Music therapy utilizes two primary types of techniques: active and receptive. Active techniques involve creating music through singing, chanting or playing instruments; while receptive approaches focus on listening to and responding to music.
Music therapy has the unique ability to treat a range of issues and ailments, such as cancer, arthritis, depression, ADHD and PTSD. Additionally, it can be beneficial for those recovering from strokes, brain injuries or traumatic events like the loss of a loved one.
Music therapy can incorporate almost any genre, from classical to jazz and rock to folk. It is important to remember that each person’s experience is unique, so a professional music therapist will collaborate with each client to determine which approach will be most beneficial for them.
Music therapy often uses improvisation as a technique, where clients make choices based on how they feel and what they hear in their head. This can be an excellent approach for clients who are shy about talking about their feelings or afraid of making mistakes to express themselves safely within a secure setting.
Another popular technique is composition, which involves using lyrics and instruments to craft new songs. This approach works best for clients suffering from low self-esteem or grieving.
The Nordoff-Robbins approach is a music therapy technique that emphasizes music-making as an enjoyable and social activity. It can be particularly beneficial for those who feel isolated or socially deprived, and can be applied in many other types of scenarios as well.
For instance, it can be employed with a group of clients at a community center or school. It could even be employed in hospitals to enhance interaction and communication between patients, nurses, doctors and other staff members.
Studies have consistently demonstrated the therapeutic value of music therapy in treating mental and physical health conditions. It can reduce anxiety, enhance focus and concentration, boost self-esteem, ease pain symptoms and promote sound sleep patterns.
