Mtbc Music Therapy and Technology
Mtbc music therapy is the practice of using musical interventions to promote mental and physical wellbeing, reduce suffering, and enhance quality of life. To become certified in this profession, one must possess at least a bachelor’s degree as well as board certification.
Music therapists have integrated technology into their clinical practices as a means to facilitate their work with patients (e.g., via video conferencing sessions and the use of smart devices). Some MTs have even begun creating apps or other tools that teach social-emotional skills through music.
These applications can help patients better regulate their emotions and promote overall emotional health (Randall & Rickard, 2013; Gold et al., 2017). Some have even created games with movements triggered by musical stimuli – perfect for those with disabilities or physical limitations!
Studies have discovered a connection between emotional control and overall wellbeing, including stress management and improved mood. For instance, musical games that require participants to use their imaginations and creative talents may aid those suffering from anxiety, stress, depression or other emotional challenges in overcoming feelings of isolation, hopelessness or fear while building confidence and elevating self-worth (Gold et al., 2017).
However, technology in music therapy (MT) is still relatively new, and there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Patients who can’t hear or see therapists may struggle to engage with sessions; this is especially true for older adults who cannot move their hands; however, research has demonstrated that even young children with hearing impairments or visual disabilities benefit from music-making activities in hospitals (Boyd et al., 2015; Gupta and De Witte, 2015).
Many music therapists who have been working with patients for years rely on their experience to accurately assess patients’ musical preferences and comfort levels. They do this through regular dialogue and by inviting patients into spontaneous music-making experiences.
Therapists usually conduct these sessions at their patient’s bedside, using instruments such as guitars, keyboards, drums, flutes and recorders to aid the therapeutic process. Depending on the patient’s needs and abilities, therapists may also incorporate singing or imagery to foster musical identity development.
Despite the challenges and restrictions regarding technology in music therapy (MT), many music therapists are eager to adopt new tools in order to continue their practice. When asked which types of technologies would be most helpful in the future, over half (59 individuals or 52.7%) reported specialized MT software as being of greatest benefit for their practice. A similar number expressed an interest in MIDI instruments, recording tools, digital musical interfaces (e.g. virtual instruments), teleconferencing tools/apps and wearable devices as well.
Although many music therapists are open to using technology in their practice, there remains some doubt as to its effectiveness. It appears that most respondents prefer face-to-face sessions over online ones. Furthermore, North American MTs were the most likely to report success with online sessions while only 40% of music therapists from Europe and Asia have done so. This suggests a strong need for face-to-face MT rather than tele-music-therapy in the future.