Can music therapy help heal trauma, anxiety, and depression? And are there any qualified musical therapists nearby?
Plus, as you search for music therapy, it’s crucial to be aware of the common myths and misconceptions surrounding this therapeutic approach.
The Online Mental Health Reviews team is qualified to write about music therapy due to our extensive experience in researching and comparing various mental health products, services, and courses.
In this listicle-themed blog post, we’ll debunk some of the most prevalent misunderstandings about the private practice of music therapy and highlight the true benefits of this unique form of therapy.
What do Music Therapists Do?
Music therapists play a vital role in addressing various mental health concerns through the therapeutic use of music.
- They create customized treatment plans based on clients’ individual needs and goals, incorporating activities such as creative arts therapies such as improvisation and playing, songwriting, singing, and instrument playing.
- These interventions help clients express their emotions, improve self-awareness, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
- Music therapists work with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and various other mental health challenges.
- By offering a supportive and empathetic environment, music therapists empower clients to overcome obstacles and enhance their overall well-being.
Who Can Benefit From Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a form of therapeutic intervention that uses music to improve physical, emotional, and mental health. According to music therapy for cancer patient study1:
- Music therapy can be beneficial for people of all ages and backgrounds, from children with support needs to typically developing children.
- Music therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and the physical effects of stress, help manage Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, improve healing, and even relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Additionally, it can help patients gain clarity to discover the underlying cause of their anxiety.
- Music therapy is also versatile and offers benefits for cognitive, physical, emotional, and social needs.
Who Will Most Likely Not Benefit From Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a beneficial form of treatment for many people, but some may not benefit from it.
- People with an aversion to music or sound, those who are easily overstimulated, elderly persons, and those with certain mental health conditions such as schizophrenia may not find music therapy helpful.
- Additionally, those who do not have the cognitive ability to understand and respond to musical cues may not benefit from music therapy either.
What are the Disadvantages of Music Therapy?
Music therapy is generally a safe and beneficial form of treatment, but it does come with some risks and drawbacks.
- For example, if someone has a hearing problem, music therapy may not be as effective for them. Other forms of therapy like CBT may be more effective.
- Additionally, listening to music excessively can also increase anxiety levels or trigger memories that may be unpleasant.
- Furthermore, it may not be suitable for dementia patients or those who become overly emotional when listening to music.
- Finally, there is the risk of overstimulation or confusion from very loud music or particular types of music.
Alternative to Music Therapy – Headspace
Headspace, an evidence-based mindfulness app, can serve as an alternative to music therapy for those seeking mental health support. The app offers a variety of sleep sounds and background noises designed to help users calm down, relax, and find inner peace.
While music therapy focuses on emotional expression through creative outlets, Headspace emphasizes emotional regulation and self-awareness.
In our Headspace review, we bought their annual subscription and extensively tried their service. We believe their structured approach empowers individuals coping with stress, burnout, and other mental health concerns to develop effective strategies for managing their emotions and achieving a more balanced state of mind.
Both mindfulness practices offered by Headspace and art forms like music therapy are essential tools for connecting to one’s sense of presence and fostering personal growth. By incorporating these methods into their daily routines, our readers can overcome the challenges they face, such as anxiety, PTSD, OCD, trauma, depression, and more.
Looking for evidence based mindfulness training?
What Disorders Does Music Therapy Treat?
- Music therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been proven to help with a variety of disorders, including physical and mental ailments.
- Music therapy can be used to treat conditions such as cardiac conditions, depression, anxiety, the autism spectrum, Alzheimer’s disease, emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), hypertension, and dementia.
- Additionally, music therapy can be used to lower blood pressure and improve memory and communication skills. It can also provide an outlet for emotions and reduce stress.
How does Music Therapy Help with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
Music therapy is an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)2.
- It can help reduce symptoms such as avoidance, hyperarousal, and re-experiencing.
- Music therapy can also help with other anxiety and depression disorders, as well developmental disabilities such as brain injuries.
- Music therapy is a form of evidence-based treatment that uses music to improve physical and psychological well-being.
- Music therapy can also provide a distraction from intrusive thoughts and memories associated with trauma.
- Additionally, research suggests that music may activate the release of hormones like oxytocin which are known to reduce stress levels.
- It involves activities such as listening to or creating music, art, improvisation, songwriting, and playing instruments.
These activities can help people with PTSD to express their emotions in a safe environment and gain control over their thoughts and feelings.
Mythbust Music Therapy
Myth 1: Music Therapy is Only for Musicians or People with Musical Talent
One common myth about music therapy is that it’s only suitable for musicians or individuals with inherent musical talent.
In reality, music therapy can benefit anyone, regardless of their musical background or abilities. Music therapists tailor their sessions to meet the individual’s needs and preferences, using various music-based activities and techniques to address specific therapeutic goals.
Myth 2: Music Therapy is Just Listening to Music
While listening to music can undoubtedly have therapeutic benefits, music therapy goes beyond merely listening. It’s a structured, evidence-based practice that involves active participation in music-making, improvisation, songwriting practice music therapy, or other creative processes.
These activities help individuals express their emotions, enhance self-awareness, and develop coping skills to overcome various mental health challenges this is a type of partial hospitalization programs
Myth 3: Music Therapy Isn’t Effective for Serious Mental Health Issues
Some people might believe that music therapy isn’t suitable for addressing severe mental health concerns.
However, research demonstrates that music therapy can be highly effective in treating a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral disorders. Music therapy can also complement other therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication, to provide comprehensive support for individuals facing diverse challenges of success stories.
Myth 4: Music Therapy Doesn’t Require Professional Training
Another misconception about music therapy is that anyone can conduct it without professional training. Music therapists undergo extensive education and training to develop the skills and knowledge needed to provide effective music therapy services.
They are often board-certified professionals who specialize in using music-based interventions to address various serious mental health needs and concerns. It’s essential to seek a qualified music therapist when considering this therapeutic approach.
Myth 5: Music Therapy Results Take Longer to Achieve
Some individuals might assume that music therapy takes longer to produce results compared to more traditional talk therapies. However, this isn’t necessarily true.
The timeline for progress in music therapy, like any other therapeutic approach, varies depending on the individual’s needs, goals, and circumstances. In many cases, music therapy can lead to significant improvements in a shorter period, as it allows individuals to engage more effectively in the therapeutic process.
Myth 6: Online Music Therapy is Less Effective than In-Person Sessions
With the increasing popularity of online therapy services, some individuals may doubt the effectiveness of online music therapy.
However, research has shown that online music therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions. Online music therapy allows individuals to access specialized support from the comfort of their homes, making it an excellent option for those with limited access to in-person therapists or busy schedules.
Myth 7: Music Therapy is Only Beneficial for Individuals with a Diagnosis
It’s a common misconception that music therapy is only helpful for individuals with a specific mental health diagnosis. However, music therapy can benefit individuals experiencing a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, even if they don’t have a formal diagnosis. Music therapy can be particularly beneficial for some adults and individuals going through transitional periods, experiencing stress, or coping with grief and loss.
How does Music Therapy Work?
Music therapy is a form of therapy that uses music to improve physical, emotional, and mental health according to Healthline. It involves the use of music and musical instruments to help people express their feelings, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
Music therapy clinic therapists assess the needs of each client and create a treatment plan that includes goals set by both the therapist and the client.
Music therapy sessions involve activities such as listening to relaxing music while talking, playing musical instruments, discussing lyrics, using imagery, performing songs, or learning through music.
Research has shown that music therapy can be effective in treating mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
What are the 4 Methods of Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a form of therapy that uses music to improve physical, emotional, and mental health. It is based on the idea that music can be used to promote healing and help people cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental and physical health issues.
There are four main methods of music therapy: receptive, re-creative, improvisation, and composition. Each method has its unique benefits and can be used to address the different needs of individuals seeking therapeutic support.
- Receptive – Receptive music therapy involves listening to music and responding to it in some way.
- Re-creative music therapy involves creating new pieces of music or adapting existing pieces.
- Improvisation music therapy focuses on spontaneous musical expression.
- Compositional music therapy involves composing original pieces of music with the guidance of a therapist.
Find a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC)
Finding a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) to find a music therapist is an important step in receiving quality music therapy services.
To become board-certified, music therapists must have completed a bachelor’s degree in music therapy and passed the national board certification exam administered by The Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).
After passing the exam, they are granted the MT-BC credential.
To find a qualified music therapist in your area, you can use the CBMT’s Individual Directory Search to search for someone with the MT-BC credential (https://www.cbmt.org/candidates/certification/).
How Much Does Music Therapy Cost?
Music therapy can be an expensive service, but the cost varies depending on the type of session and the length of time. Individual music therapy sessions typically range from $50-90 per hour, while contracted music therapy services may start around $90 for a private pay 45-minute group session or $150 for a 90-minute group session.
How is Music Therapy Utilized in Nursing Homes?
Music therapy is being increasingly utilized in nursing homes to help improve the quality of life for residents.
- Music therapy has been found to have many benefits, including reducing depression and anxiety, improving cognitive function, and aiding in memory recall.
- It can also be used to help with physical rehabilitation, as well as providing emotional support.
- Music therapy can be used in a variety of ways, such as group music sessions, one-on-one music therapy sessions, seeking music therapy services, or even playing music through speakers throughout the home.
This type of therapy has been shown to have a positive impact on nursing home residents and can help them feel more connected to their environment.
Music Therapy Near Me Conclusion
As you search for “music therapy near me,” remember that music therapy is a versatile and effective therapeutic approach that can benefit individuals of all ages facing various mental health concerns.
By debunking common myths and misconceptions about music therapy, we hope to empower readers to make informed decisions about their mental health journey.
If you have any questions about music therapy or suggestions on which mental health service, app-approved site, of course the Online Mental Health Reviews team should explore next, please leave a comment. We’re here to support and empower you on your mental health journey!
Sources
- Bradt J, Dileo C, Myers-Coffman K, Biondo J. Music interventions for improving psychological and physical outcomes in people with cancer. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2021, Issue 10. Art. No.: CD006911. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006911.pub4. Accessed 30 May 2023.
- Landis-Shack N, Heinz AJ, Bonn-Miller MO. Music Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress in Adults: A Theoretical Review. Psychomusicology. 2017;27(4):334-342. doi: 10.1037/pmu0000192. PMID: 29290641; PMCID: PMC5744879.
Additional Resources
While Zocdoc is excellent for finding local healthcare professionals who take your insurance, you may want to find other types of therapy. In that case, use the list below:
- Find Art Therapy: Unravel Myths, Discover Local Options
- Find Play Therapy: Locate Services, Bust Myths
- Find Hypnotherapy: Local Resources, Dispel Myths
- Find Music Therapy: Explore Locally, Break Myths
- Find Right Online Hypnotherapist: Weigh Benefits, Challenges
- Find Mental Health Centers: Your Local Guide
- Find Parent Therapy: Strengthen Family, Overcome Challenges
- Find Texas Physical Therapist: Understand Benefits
- Find Therapy for Emotional Abuse
- Find Humanistic Therapy: Right Therapist Guide
- Find Men’s Therapy: Comprehensive Local Services
- Find Binge Eating Therapy: Local Guide
- Find Skin Picking Help: Local Therapist Finder
- Better Speech Therapy Review
- Find Reading Guidance: Book Therapy Review
Our team invites you to share your thoughts in the comments section below. Let us know which mental health software products, apps, or courses that Online Mental Health Reviews should explore and review next.
If You Are In Crisis
In a crisis, waiting for an online therapy session might not be the safest option. If immediate assistance is needed, please call 911, especially if there’s a risk of self-harm or harm to others. For those considering self-harm, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by dialing 988 and offers 24/7 support.
Additionally, the National Helpline of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) can be contacted at 800-662-HELP (4357). This helpline provides a free, confidential service that assists individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues in finding treatment and gathering information, available 24/7, all year round.