Music therapy is a form of holistic treatment that utilizes music to promote emotional, physical, and mental well-being. During a music therapy session, a trained and licensed music therapist works with a client to achieve specific goals and objectives.
The session may involve singing, playing instruments, listening to music, and discussing the emotional content of the music. Here are five things you can expect from a music therapy session.
1. A Personalized Approach to Treatment
Music therapy is a highly individualized form of therapy. Each client is unique, and the music therapist will tailor the treatment to the client’s specific needs and goals.
The therapist will conduct an initial assessment to determine the client’s strengths and challenges and develop a treatment plan accordingly. The plan may involve specific musical activities, such as improvisation or songwriting, or it may focus on using music to address emotional or physical challenges.
2. A Safe and Supportive Environment
Music therapy sessions take place in a safe and supportive environment. The therapist creates a space where the client feels comfortable expressing themselves through music and discussing their emotions.
The therapist will listen to the client’s concerns without judgment and help them explore their feelings through music. This can be particularly helpful for clients who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally.
3. Active Participation in Music-Making
Music therapy is an active form of therapy that involves the client in music-making. The therapist may ask the client to sing, play an instrument, or improvise music. The therapist may also use music to facilitate movement and physical activity.
Active music-making can be especially effective for clients who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally or who may be resistant to traditional talk therapy.
4. Emotional expression through music
Music is a powerful medium for emotional expression. During a music therapy session, the therapist may use music to help the client explore and express their emotions.
The therapist may choose music that reflects the client’s emotional state or encourage the client to create their own music that expresses their feelings. The therapist may also use music to help the client regulate their emotions, such as using calming music to help a client relax or upbeat music to help a client feel more energized.
5. A Focus on Achieving Specific Goals
Music therapy is a goal-oriented form of therapy. The therapist and client work together to identify specific goals for the therapy sessions, such as improving communication skills, reducing anxiety, or increasing socialization.
The therapist will track the client’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure that the client is making progress towards their goals.
Conclusion
Music therapy is a highly individualized and goal-oriented form of therapy that uses music to promote emotional, physical, and mental well-being. During a music therapy session, clients can expect a safe and supportive environment and active participation, among others. Music therapy can be especially helpful for clients who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, may resist traditional talk therapy, or are seeking a more holistic approach to treatment.
If you’re looking for a holistic and personalized approach to therapy, the Crossroads Collective can help. We offer music therapy in Kelowna so you can achieve your goals and promote emotional, physical, and mental well-being through music. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards a happier and healthier you.
