The Music Therapy Center of California
A music therapy center is a type of medical clinic that offers services to patients and their families. Staffed with board-certified music therapists and other health professionals, these professionals offer individual and group sessions with the goal of helping patients heal from illness, injury or hospitalization.
The Music Therapy Center of California is an organization that seeks to raise public awareness about the therapeutic value of music in healthcare and provide access to music therapy services for all individuals. They accomplish this mission through educational resources, training programs and community-based outreach initiatives.
Research has repeatedly demonstrated the beneficial effects of music therapy in treating symptoms associated with depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders. This practice relies on the notion that music alters brain chemistry in a natural, non-invasive manner to relieve stress symptoms and enhance moods.
Music therapy sessions allow a trained therapist to use musical experiences to assess and treat a patient’s physical and emotional wellbeing. Through various forms of music, the therapist also strives to boost self-esteem in the patient while improving their capacity for expressing emotions through song.
Music therapists’ skill and experience can have a significant effect on patients’ emotional, social and cognitive health. Music therapists are essential members of the healthcare team that includes physicians, nurses and other health practitioners that provide treatment to patients in any clinical setting – hospitals, nursing homes or outpatient clinics included – regardless of location.
Shultis emphasizes the purpose of music therapy: to reduce symptoms and enhance quality of life for patients, families and caregivers. Together with their client, the music therapist creates a tailored program tailored to each person’s individual requirements.
Music therapy sessions for children and teenagers have been proven to promote communication skills, emotional health and self-esteem. Furthermore, studies suggest music therapy could be an effective treatment for people with autism, ADHD or other behavioral disorders.
Shultis believes that music therapy, by using music to develop social and communication skills, can have a beneficial effect on patients with dementia or other neuropsychiatric conditions that impact mental functioning. A study published in the Journal of Music Therapy demonstrated this phenomenon: participants who engaged in music-related activities found it an enjoyable way to learn about Alzheimer’s disease; additionally, researchers observed improvements to memory, attention and mood among those participating.
Studies have indicated that music therapy helps people recover faster from illness or injury and return home sooner. It has been known to lift moods, reduce pain, and assist patients and their families cope with difficult circumstances such as hospitalization or surgery.
For instance, an 11-year-old named Jimmy who has been treated at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh for an inoperable brain tumor has found solace through music therapy. His love of music and natural rhythms have allowed him to feel less anxious and more relaxed during his stays.