How Music Therapy Can Help With Behavioral Disorders
Music therapy is a treatment that utilizes various methods to assist individuals in dealing with various disorders. It has the potential to address emotional problems such as depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Music therapy is often used to treat behavioral disorders such as autism, ADHD, schizophrenia and other forms of mental illness. These conditions can impair a person’s capacity for socialization, engaging with others and leading an enriching life.
Music therapy helps clients express themselves and connect with their therapist through various instruments and songs. Through music therapy, clients will gain skills in singing, playing an instrument, and dancing as a means of self-expression and connection.
They will have the unique chance to hone their music and songwriting abilities, which can aid them in managing emotional difficulties and boosting self-esteem.
These techniques can also be employed to address other areas of a person’s life, such as their relationships and career choices. This type of treatment is especially helpful for adolescents who require guidance in managing their emotions in a healthy way.
Research is increasingly showing that music can be beneficial in treatment. Francesca Albergato-Muterspaw conducted a study with a grief support group and discovered it helped foster feelings of belonging, culture, and spirituality.
She discovered that music could provide clients with an outlet to reflect on their lives and past experiences which may have contributed to a shift in identity. Furthermore, it served as a means for therapists to keep their client focused during sessions, encouraging them to remain committed and productive at work.
Studies have also demonstrated the therapeutic power of music for Autistic individuals, with multiple brain regions associated with emotion induction and modulation being activated by it. Thus, music has the potential to serve as an effective treatment option for these individuals.
Children who have endured physical, sexual or psychological abuse may benefit from music therapy. These children often struggle to process and cope with overwhelming feelings. Unlike other methods of psychotherapy, music provides a non-threatening space for these kids to explore their emotions and work through any trauma that has been suffered.
Additionally, music can provide kids with a way to regulate their emotions and express themselves safely in an outlet that can be taught to them over time.
Teens who have experienced bullying or violent behavior can especially benefit from this type of treatment. Studies have demonstrated that those students gain a newfound level of self-assurance and motivation through learning communication techniques through music.
