Music Therapy in Bucks County
Music therapy is a clinically oriented form of treatment that utilizes music to meet individual goals. This evidence-based, well-established therapy can be utilized by people of all ages and abilities to reduce stress, elevate moods and promote self-expression.
Music therapists work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes, outpatient clinics and mental health centers. Additionally, they may work at juvenile detention facilities, residences for individuals with developmental disabilities or private practices.
Music therapists use musical experiences such as singing, listening to music, playing instruments and composing to address a person’s individual mental, physical and social needs. It can help reduce anxiety, fatigue and depression, enhance communication and social skills, promote stress management strategies and develop coping mechanisms for dealing with emotions.
In sessions, music therapists often assist patients in creating lyrics that express their emotions and then discussing these with their therapist. This provides patients with a chance to express themselves creatively that is often not possible with traditional talk therapy methods.
This approach is unique and encourages patients to feel more connected to their therapist, which can aid in recovery. Additionally, it helps patients put problems into perspective and learn healthy ways of managing emotions.
When working with a patient, an occupational therapist will collect information about their musical background and what they enjoy listening to or playing. With this knowledge, the therapist can create tailored musical activities for the person to enjoy.
The therapist must ensure the music they use is suitable for both the patient and environment. This is essential both for safety reasons and to enhance comfort levels for everyone present.
Seth Laucks, MA, MT-BC, LPC is the Creative Arts Therapy Coordinator at Living Branches Behavioral Health’s dementia care program. For several years he has been providing music therapy to residents with various conditions and disorders and believes strongly in its healing power.
He believes music is an empowering force, capable of unlocking doors to memories, relaxation and pain relief. Additionally, he thinks music helps residents connect to their loved ones, neighbors and communities.
Music has the unique power to heal both body and mind. It also inspires hope and positive change in those dealing with addiction, depression or anxiety.
Offering your patients an exciting, creative, and rewarding experience can be incredibly rewarding!
The therapist’s role is to ensure patients enjoy themselves and get the most out of their sessions. They will offer support, direction and feedback as patients discover new ways of expressing themselves and managing emotions more healthily.
They will offer patients a safe space to express their emotions and listen to music without judgement or criticism. Drawing upon their training and expertise, the therapist will craft an individualized positive experience for each patient that is tailored specifically to them.
