"Music Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the qualified music therapist provides the indicated treatment including creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness in many areas such as: overall physical rehabilitation and facilitating movement, increasing people's motivation to become engaged in their treatment, providing emotional support for clients and their families, and providing an outlet for expression of feelings."
Introduction to Music Therapy
This course provides an overview of the field of music therapy from its historical development to current practices, national and international. The uses of music in therapy are explored with all of those who might benefit, including people who have developmental disabilities, terminally ill, dependent on substances, have psychiatric disorders, those in acute or chronic care hospitals, birthing centers, and pain management clinics. Lectures, videotapes, and professional conferences provide insight into what is music therapy and who is best suited as MT practitioners.
