Neurologic Music Therapy Training in Boston
Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) is an evidence-based clinical practice that uses standardized therapeutic music interventions to address sensorimotor, cognitive, speech and language, as well as psychosocial needs of those with neurological conditions or impairments. NMT draws upon research in neuroscience about music perception, cognition and production to facilitate functional change in clients (Thaut & Hoemberg, 2014).
At MedRhythms, we believe that everyone with a neurological injury or disease should have access to NMT as part of their rehabilitation. We are actively working to widen our access and make NMT accessible to everyone who could benefit from it.
Rhythm is one of the most powerful stimuli on earth and, when applied to walking, can be particularly helpful at improving gait. That is why, back in 2015, neurologic music therapists at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital began using rhythmic auditory stimulation with patients’ feet – an effective way for them to regain their ability to walk after stroke or other traumas to the nervous system.
Now, thanks to cutting-edge technology and a partnership with Universal Music Group, the company is creating prescription music for rehabilitation that patients can access on their smartphones or tablets. Once selected, an algorithm will screen it for minimum criteria to use in music therapy and mix it into an individualized track that’s sent directly to a wearable device so patients can treat themselves using its earbuds or headphones without needing interaction with a music therapist.
The MusicWorx Toolbox is an extensive collection of neurologic rehabilitation music therapy ideas that have been tested and proven successful with various populations. These interventions can be tailored by any music therapist to meet the individual needs of almost any client population.
Topics in the toolbox include musical exercises that address sensorymotor, speech and language needs as well as cognitive ones like improving concentration, increasing a sense of accomplishment or stimulating social interactions. They may be beneficial for treating children and adults who have autism or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder as well.
The toolbox is the ideal starting point for music therapists to hone their expertise in working with a wide range of clients in various settings. It contains over 60 interventions that are adaptable to fit almost any population, from children to adults. These techniques have been shown to have beneficial effects on client cognition, sensorimotor control, speech and language development, as well as social goals – and all can be customized using any therapist’s individual artistic interpretation to create sessions that are dynamic, engaging and personalized for each client.