How to Use Music and Art Therapy to Treat Breast Cancer
Music and art therapy are frequently combined to help patients manage symptoms associated with illness, such as anxiety, fatigue and depression that may accompany breast cancer treatment. If you don’t have private insurance coverage for traditional forms of therapy, music and art can be done in small groups or one-on-one sessions by a qualified professional at an affordable cost.
In order to work as a music therapist, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology or music. Furthermore, you must obtain licensure from your state in which you practice; this requires completion of training programs and passing an examination. For added support and to stay current on industry trends, consider joining professional associations such as American Art Therapy Association to foster your career development opportunities.
Art therapy can take many forms, but the most popular technique involves painting and drawing to express your clients’ thoughts and feelings. For instance, you might ask them to listen to music for a moment and then paint or draw the song they hear in their head. You might also encourage them to compose a song that accurately expresses how they are feeling or experiencing during that particular session.
Music can be used therapeutically to benefit many patients, from those with developmental disabilities to those who have suffered stroke. It helps improve fine motor skills and coordination as well as the capacity for speaking clearly and responding clearly to stimuli such as rhythms or sounds. It has the potential to transform lives.
Additionally, yoga can foster a sense of belonging and self-expression that helps patients cope with their emotions. This type of therapy is especially useful for children with autism or limited social skills as well as those who struggle verbally expressing their emotions.
Music therapy has proven beneficial for Schneider in dealing with anxiety and PTSD, just as it has for many others. Not only does it reduce stress and tension, but it can also improve memory while encouraging a healthy lifestyle.
Music therapy is a type of psychological therapy that utilizes music to aid in the development and recovery of emotional, cognitive, physical and social functioning. Research has indicated that it can improve patients’ quality of life when combined with other forms of psychotherapy or medication.
Music therapists are taught not only traditional methods of listening and playing instruments, but they are also trained in other tools like vocal exercises and dance. Furthermore, they learn how to work with people of all ages and abilities – including those who may be deaf or disabled – regardless of age or ability level.
Science is increasingly taking arts therapies seriously. For instance, studies are investigating whether singing improves brain activity in areas affected by diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Recently, artists and brain scientists joined forces to form the NeuroArts Blueprint initiative, testing these types of creative practices on real-life patients with serious conditions like PTSD or Parkinson’s.
