Music Therapy is a clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship. A trained music therapist helps individuals address emotional, cognitive, physical, and social needs.
Key Points:
- Techniques: Listening to music, singing, playing instruments, songwriting, improvisation, and music-based relaxation.
- Applications: Beneficial for reducing anxiety, managing pain, improving mood, enhancing communication, and supporting rehabilitation (e.g., after a stroke).
- Populations Served: Used in mental health settings, hospitals, special education, eldercare (particularly with dementia patients), and developmental disability programs.
- Mechanism: Music can stimulate multiple brain regions, aiding memory, emotional processing, and social interaction.
