Portland Music Therapy
Music Therapy is a form of healthcare that utilizes music to assist people in recovering and healing. This type of treatment can be utilized for those suffering from mental illness, physical disabilities, addictions, and other chronic conditions; additionally, those looking to enhance their quality of life or cope with trauma may find benefit from music therapy as well.
Music therapy is an effective form of counseling that can help reduce anxiety and stress. Additionally, it has been known to prevent depression as well as enhance memory retention and learning.
A music therapist is a licensed healthcare professional with formal training in both music and psychology. These practitioners work with people of all ages in hospitals, schools, outpatient clinics, elder care facilities, and other settings.
They utilize musical techniques to assess a person’s strengths and needs, then create a treatment plan that takes into account both the patient’s musical preferences as well as non-music goals related to emotional, cognitive, communicative, sensorimotor, and physical requirements.
Portland Music Therapy provides both group and individual sessions tailored to the needs of each client, their family or caregiver. These sessions create a safe space where clients are encouraged to reach their goals through musical activities, instruments, and singing.
These sessions are typically conducted in a group setting, where the client and therapist come together to craft an individualized program tailored to meet each person’s individual requirements.
Individual therapists collaborate with clients to help them hone their musical skills, such as playing instruments, singing and performing. Activities can be tailored for different levels of ability while the therapist also assists with musical literacy and theory.
This type of session can be especially helpful for individuals with limited mobility or social and communication difficulties. Music also has the power to evoke new memories and relax mind and body through its rhythm and order.
Music therapists can be found at numerous medical centers and schools throughout Oregon, typically possessing either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field. Furthermore, they must pass a national board exam to earn their Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC) credential.
Music therapists have the unique ability to work with a wide range of patients, such as those suffering from autism, dementia, Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions such as traumatic brain injuries. They offer therapeutic relief for their clients.
Some music therapists specialize in working with specific populations, such as children with disabilities or seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. They use music’s energizing and empowering aspects to help their clients communicate, express themselves, and feel at home in their environment.
For further details on music therapy in Portland, consult the American Music Therapy Association website or reach out to a nearby music therapist. They can assist you with finding a provider near you or provide referrals for an appropriate therapist.