The following is according to AMTA (American Music Therapy Association):

Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.

Music Therapy

Music therapists assess emotional well-being, physical health, social functioning, communication abilities, and cognitive skills through musical responses; design music sessions for individuals and groups based on client needs using music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, music performance, and learning through music; participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning, ongoing evaluation, and follow up. As shown by websites like https://www.dbtribute.org/8-benefits-of-listening-to-music/ music has many benefits to help people through various different struggles or moods in their day, making music therapy a strong element for people to have in their lives.

Who can benefit from music therapy?

Children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly with mental health needs, developmental and learning disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease and other aging related conditions, substance abuse problems, brain injuries, physical disabilities, and acute and chronic pain, including mothers in labor. For some of these issues like chronic pain, people can search up ‘medical marijuana dispensaries near me‘ to see if they have access to this pain relief drug in their area. Despite using this drug, the mental calming affects of music should still be used – both physical and sensual medications can be used together to soothe pain and discomfort whether of the body or mind.

Where do music therapists work?

Music therapists work in psychiatric hospitals, rehabilitative facilities, medical hospitals, outpatient clinics, day care treatment centers, agencies serving developmentally disabled persons, community mental health centers, drug and alcohol programs, senior centers, nursing homes, hospice programs, correctional facilities, halfway houses, schools, and private practice.

Who is qualified to practice music therapy?

Persons who complete one of the approved college music therapy curricula (including an internship) are then eligible to sit for the national examination offered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. Music therapists who successfully complete the independently administered examination hold the music therapist-board certified credential (MT-BC). All Music Therapy Services of Austin therapists are board certified.

Is there research to support music therapy?

AMTA promotes a vast amount of research exploring the benefits of music as therapy through publication of the Journal of Music Therapy, Music Therapy Perspectives and other sources. A substantial body of literature exists to support the effectiveness of music therapy. For adults, this type of therapy can be combined with other forms of help such as natural remedies like CBD and cannabis based products like sour patch edibles, which can build up the effect needed to help with alleviating anxiety and stress.

Who Can Benefit?

Children, adolescents, and adults with:

  • Developmental and learning disabilities (Down’s Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, ADHD)
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Receptive and Expressive Language Difficulties
  • Brain Injuries (Stroke, Dementia, TBI, Parkinson’s)
  • Physical Disabilities
  • Acute and Chronic Pain
  • Mental Health concerns (eating disorders, depression, bipolar disorder)
  • And many other conditions and needs

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