Music Therapy is an established health profession that involves the use of evidenced-based music interventions to promote an overall sense of health and wellness. A Board-Certified Music Therapist uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and spiritual needs of an individual or group.
Grassroots Music Therapy is passionate about delivering an excellent music therapy session, catered to each client's individual needs.
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Who is Qualified to Practice Music Therapy?
According to the American Music Therapy Association one must earn a bachelor’s degree from an approved program and have at minimum the entry level credential, MT-BC to ethically practice as a music therapist. Clinical skills are developed through 1200 hours of required fieldwork, including an internship in healthcare and/or education facilities. These experiences allow students to learn how to assess the needs of clients, develop and implement treatment plans, and evaluate and document clinical changes.
Once the music therapy degree is earned and internship is completed, the student is eligible to sit for a board certification exam to earn the entry level credential, MT-BC, (music therapist, board certified) from the credentialing body, the Certification Board for Music Therapists.
What Do Music Therapists Do?
Music therapists are highly trained, board-certified professionals who work with a wide variety of individuals to help manage pain, reduce stress, express emotion, enhance memory, improve communication, and promote physical rehabilitation.
Music Therapists work with a variety of clients of all ages and populations such as those with developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, neurological conditions, trauma, and at the end of life.
Who Can Benefit From Music Therapy?
Grassroots Music Therapy specializes in the treatment of older adults experiencing dementia and other related aging conditions, terminal illnesses, and adults and children with disabilities.
Music Therapy can benefit children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly with mental health needs, developmental and learning disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease and other aging related conditions, substance abuse problems, brain injuries, physical disabilities, and acute and chronic pain, including mothers in labor.
Music therapy enhances the quality of life. It involves relationships between a qualified therapist and individual or group. These relationships are structured and adapted through the elements of music to create a positive environment and set the occasion for meaningful experiences.
Where Do Music Therapists Work?
Music therapists work in a variety of settings including; in client’s homes, Long term care facilities, music therapy centers, hospitals and community center and correctional facilities.
Here at Grassroots we work primarily in clients homes and or long term care facilities.
What Is A Typical Music Therapy Session Like?
A music therapy session can vary widely depending on the client's needs and goals. However, here's a general idea of what a session might look like:
- Assessment
- Goal Setting
- Music Making
- Songwriting
- Discussion
- Improvisation
- Lyric Analysis
- Movement to Music
- Relaxation
- Games
- Feedback and Reflection
Remember, the key is flexibility. A music therapy session is tailored to the individual or group, and the activities can be adjusted based on the client's responses and needs during the session.