Music Therapy
What is music therapy?
Music is increasingly used as a complementary therapy, along with conventional cancer treatments, to help patients cope mentally, emotionally, and even physically with their diagnosis. Music therapy may involve listening to music, creating music, singing, and discussing music, in addition to guided imagery with music.
Can music therapy help people with cancer?
Yes. Throughout history, and all across the world, people have used music to promote healing and enhance their quality of life. Modern scientific studies have shown the positive value of music therapy on the body, mind, and spirit. Researchers have found that music therapy, when used along with antinausea drugs, can ease the physical symptoms of nausea and vomiting for patients receiving chemotherapy. Music therapy can also help decrease the intensity of a patient's experience of pain and reduce dependence on pain medication.
Music can also help accomplish the following:
Relieve stress, apprehension, and fear
Improve mood
Lower heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate
Relieve depression
Relieve sleeplessness
Relieve muscle tension
Provide relaxation
Music therapy alone is not a proven treatment for cancer, nor has not been found to affect either cancer cells directly or the biology of an individual’s disease. It should not be used as a substitute for conventional care.
How does music therapy work?
Music therapy can be incorporated into many different environments. People listen to music alone or in groups, with trained therapists or without. It can be as simple as someone listening to a CD. Specially selected music can be broadcast into hospitals, chemotherapy suites, and other clinical environments.
Music therapy sessions are designed and conducted in a variety of ways, and can be tailored specifically for individuals or groups with a wide variety of needs and goals. These may include:
Music improvisation
Receptive music listening
Song writing
Discussion of lyrics and meanings
Imagery and relaxation
Performance of music
For example, in a music therapy session that is specially designed to promote self-expression, the therapist might create a musical and emotional environment that encourages you to respond by revealing personal experiences or feelings. The session might incorporate speech and drama as well as music. Or, the therapist might use singing and discussions. By playing music without lyrics, the therapist can encourage you to make up words that are then formed into a unique, empowering song.
Music therapists usually receive formal education, training, and/or certification at various programs and institutions throughout the United States. For example, certification from the Certification Board of Music Therapists (CBMT) requires a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from a Music Therapy Association-approved school, 1,200 clinical hours of training through an internship, and passing the (CBMT) national certification examination. However, there is no formal government licensing procedure for music therapists. It is always wise to ask therapists about their credentials and training before working with them.
Are there any risks or complications associated with music therapy?
No. Music therapy is very safe. As an addition to your cancer treatment plan, it has the potential to be pleasant and productive.
How can I find a qualified music therapy practitioner?
It is important to select a practitioner who is qualified, experienced, and trustworthy. Click here to learn more about how to do this.