Music Therapy is a psychological clinical intervention that fosters therapeutic connections by utilising elements like rhythm, melody, and tonality. Various accessible instruments are employed, encouraging clients to create a musical language reflecting their emotional and physical state, fostering self-connection and interpersonal bonds. This therapy can help people whose lives have been affected by injury, illness or disability through supporting their psychological, emotional, cognitive, physical, communicative and social needs.
Everyone can respond to music, and Music Therapy uses this connection to facilitate positive changes in emotional well-being and communication through the engagement in live musical interaction between client and therapist. For instance, it can help develop and facilitate communication skills, improve self-confidence and independence, enhance self-awareness and awareness of others, and improve concentration and attention skills
Music Therapists tailor sessions, employing improvised or pre-composed music and voice, sung or spoken. Offered in diverse settings across the UK, therapists draw on theoretical frameworks aligned with their training and the specific health needs of their clients.
Sreeraj Kollarukandy, a Music Therapist working with the NHS, was recognised for his work, integrating my music therapy at the various acute psychiatric wards across the mental health hospital in Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust at the Allied Health Professionals Awards 2023 in the integration. He is a pioneer in using the instrument, handpan, in his practice.
He spoke to Asian Voice detailing what the practice is about and how it can help with holistic care and healing.
In what ways does music therapy contribute to overall health and well-being?
Music therapy provides a holistic approach to addressing emotional, physical, and cognitive aspects of an individual's well-being in several ways, helping reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, enhance emotional expression, and promote relaxation. Additionally, music therapy has been shown to aid in physical rehabilitation, boost cognitive function, and foster social connections. Studies have proved that the rhythmic and melodic elements of music can engage various brain regions, stimulating cognitive processes and memory.
What role does music selection play in the therapeutic process?
Music selection is crucial in the therapeutic process as different types of music can evoke specific emotions and responses. Therapists carefully choose music based on individual client needs, goals, and the therapeutic context. For example, calming music may be selected to reduce anxiety, while upbeat music can enhance mood and motivation. The client's preferences, cultural background, and personal associations with music are the primary guide to the selection. Therapists use different music techniques such as listening to familiar songs, music improvisation and songwriting depending on the goals of therapy.
How can music therapy be integrated into traditional healthcare practices for a holistic approach to treatment?
Music Therapy, an established psychological intervention in the UK, is delivered by HCPC-registered music therapists. They aid individuals with physical and mental health conditions, collaborating with various professionals in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, pupil referral units, day centres, hospices, care homes, etc.
However, Music therapy can be integrated more into traditional healthcare practices for a holistic approach to treatment by providing music therapy awareness and collaborating with more healthcare professionals. This collaboration allows for a comprehensive care plan that addresses physical, emotional, and psychological aspects. For example, in hospitals, music therapy might be incorporated into pain management, rehabilitation, or palliative care. Communication between music therapists and other healthcare providers ensures alignment with treatment goals and enhances the overall patient experience.
Are there specific populations or conditions that particularly benefit from music therapy, and why?
Music Therapists use the inherent qualities of music to support people of almost all ages and abilities and at all stages of life; from helping newborn babies develop healthy bonds with their parents, to offering vital, sensitive and compassionate palliative care at the end of life. My experience extends to working with diverse populations including autistic children, children diagnosed with eating disorders and learning disability, young people with personality disorders, adults facing various mental health challenges and older adults with dementia at the acute psychiatric hospital in England. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to work with adults in a Forensic mental health unit and children in a Special Education needs school.
Different people will benefit from music therapy in different ways depending on their needs. For example, children with developmental disorders often respond well to music therapy due to its non-verbal nature, while individuals with neurological conditions, such as stroke survivors, may benefit from music therapy by improving their motor skills and coordination.
What advice would you give to someone considering exploring music therapy for their health and wellness?
If considering music therapy for your health and well-being, start by finding a certified music therapist who can tailor the sessions to your needs. Make sure to communicate your goals, preferences and the need for therapy, additionally, be open to exploring different musical approaches. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the therapeutic process and how it aligns with your objectives. Remember that it's not necessary to be musically skilled to attend music therapy. Music therapy is designed for individuals of all musical abilities. The focus is on the therapeutic process, self-expression, and achieving personal goals rather than musical proficiency. Whether you're a seasoned musician or have no musical background, you can still benefit from and participate in music therapy.
