What Happens in a Music Therapy Session?
Board-certified music therapists are trained to use a variety of evidence-based techniques and methods of applying music to foster therapeutic outcomes for patients and families.
Through discussion and observation with patients and caregivers or referral from medical staff, a music therapist will conduct an assessment in relation to the patient’s social, emotional, physical, or physiological needs and well-being. A patient’s musical background and music preferences will be identified and used as a reference as the music therapist designs goals and interventions to meet the patient’s immediate or future needs. While sessions are centered around experiencing music within the therapeutic relationship, patients do not need to be a musician or have a musical background to benefit from music therapy services.
Music Interventions can include:
- Singing familiar, comforting songs together for reminiscence and emotional support
- Guided meditation accompanied by soothing music to encourage relaxation
- Writing original music or lyrics that shares your story
- Talking about messages found in lyrics and what we can learn from them
- Playing drums or other percussion instruments to release tension and stress
For more information, please contact Supportive Care at scccsupport@utsouthwestern.edu.