The benefits of music therapy cannot be overstated. This evidence-based treatment helps with a number of conditions such as autism, substance abuse diagnoses, and depression. At Avedis Recovery, we believe in the benefits of music therapy and would be happy to talk to you more about our music therapy program if you call today at 833.514.0579.
What Is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a treatment that can help with a variety of disorders and conditions ranging from psychological to physical.
With music therapy, music is used clinically to help:
- Reduce stress
- Improve self-expression
- Improve mood
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve memory
- Enhance communication skills
- Patients learn to self-regulate
- Increase motivation
- Improve self-reflection
- Reduce pain
There are both physical and psychological benefits to music therapy that have been well-proven in clinical settings.
One unique aspect of music therapy to consider is that no musical talent or skill is required to participate. Therapy sessions may include playing instruments, composing music, singing, or listening.
What Conditions Can Music Therapy Help?
Music therapy is used in all kinds of medical programs and treatment centers. Music therapy helps with a number of conditions, including:
- Autism
- Substance abuse disorders
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Chronic pain
- Cancer
- Headaches
This isn’t a complete list. Most conditions can benefit from music therapy to a degree.
The nice thing about music therapy is that it can be used among people of all ages, from children with an autism spectrum disorder to the elderly struggling with Alzheimer’s.
A Typical Music Therapy Session
During a typical music therapy session, you will do some of the following things as part of your treatment plan.
Create Music
Clients who enjoy composing music may create lyrics or compose a song with other patients or the therapist in a one-on-one session.
Listen to Music
Those who don’t wish to play music, sing or create music might enjoy listening to music to enjoy the lyrics and sounds.
Move or Dance to Music
Anything from nodding to the beat or dancing a choreographed number can be a part of music therapy.
Play an Instrument
For people with musical talents or those who wish to learn an instrument, pianos, guitars, and other instruments can be used to share music therapeutically.
Sing
Some people may enjoy sharing music through singing with one another.
Discuss Lyrics
Reading or listening to the lyrics of songs can bring up great topics of discussion. Therapists and their clients may talk about lyrics from one or multiple artists that they enjoy.
The Emotional Benefits of Music Therapy
The emotional benefits of music therapy can help with expression, communication, and exploring a person’s thoughts and feelings.
Music has been shown to be an excellent mood booster, and one study by the Global Council on Brain Health found that music has a positive effect on a person’s emotional wellbeing.
Some of the direct benefits of music therapy include:
- Decreasing anxiety
- Managing stress
- Improving mood
Why? Music triggers the parts of the brain responsible for memory and emotions.
Research has also shown that music can have a beneficial effect on dopamine and oxytocin, both of which help produce feelings of pleasure and love. It’s also believed that cortisol, the stress hormone, may be lowered by music.
With these obvious mental-health benefits, music therapy is suited to anyone struggling with mental health, developmental, or substance use disorders. Therapists adapt to each person using different techniques, like deep listening and active listening, to help clients understand what they feel as their emotions arise.
Contact Avedis Recovery in Los Angeles to Learn More About the Benefits of Music Therapy
At Avedis Recovery in Los Angeles, California, we want to help you on your journey. If you are interested in learning more about music therapy and how it may help you, please reach out to us at 833.514.0579.
