Music therapy encompasses a range of techniques, involving listening to, creating, and playing music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs under the guidance of a trained music therapist. These techniques aid in emotional expression, communication, and relaxation, contributing to enhanced well-being and the management of various challenges, from pain to mental health issues.
Music has been around since the beginning of civilization and man first strung together a rhythm on some random object. Since then, music has been a source of communication and healing. Music has come to define generations and cultures. It is a daily part of our lives and has become something we wake up to, go to bed to, and work to. It is such an integral part of our lives that hardly a minute goes by that we are not exposed to some sort of rhythmic tune whether it be from our phones, we our humming a tune, TV, computer, or the radio.
How does music affect my emotions?
Music is very emotional and powerful and it affects our minds and our hearts. It can make us feel happy, sad, and afraid. It is a powerful tool and when used correctly can be an effective intervention to use in healing. Music therapy has been formally around since WW1 and WW2 when it was used to entertain troops. From its humble beginnings Music therapy has grown to be a clinical evidence based practice in treating mental health issues.
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a form of expressive art therapy that uses music to improve and maintain the physical, psychological, social well being of individuals. The American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) defines music therapy as “the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional.” Music therapy is known to be particularly helpful with children, adolescents, and those who struggle to express themselves verbally.
What does music therapy involve?
Music therapy involves a broad range of activities such as listening to music, singing, and playing a musical instrument. Generally there are 4 music based interventions that are used in music therapy:
- Performing/Playing: singing or play an instrument
- Composing: writing a song
- Improvising: creating music on the spot
- Receiving /Listening: analyzing lyrics, moving to music
How can Music Therapy help Me?
Like all therapies the goal behind music therapy is to improve the overall mood and functioning on the individual. Music Therapy will allow the individual to:
- Explore personal feelings
- Make positive changes in mood
- Improve self awareness
- Develop coping and relaxation skills
- Improve conflict resolution skills
- Learn to better express yourself
- Improve concentration and attention span
- Identify and support positive and healthy feelings and thoughts
- Improve self confidence and self image
- Develop positive behaviors
Where can I get Music Therapy?
Although not regularly offered at most practices. At Thriveworks, we have licensed and clinically trained Board Certified Music Therapists on staff ready to address and meet your therapeutic needs.
Same and next-day appointments!
We also know how difficult it can be to get an appointment with a qualified therapist or counselor who accepts your health insurance. Many practices don’t even answer the phone, much less call you back if you leave a voicemail. At Thriveworks, we always answer the phone and typically are able to offer same or next-day appointments.
We accept insurance!
We accept most major insurance plans and typically offer appointments within 24 hours of your initial call. Insurance plans we accept include Blue Cross Blue Shield / Highmark, Magellan, Independence Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Keystone Health Plan East, Personal Choice, United Behavioral Health, Cigna, and Compsych.
Convenient location
We are conveniently located in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, at 600 N Jackson St, Suite 300, Media, PA, 19063, and are accessible by public transportation via SEPTA Regional Rail, Trolley, and bus. We also offer ample free parking.
Call 610-808-9923 to schedule an appointment, or fill out a contact form and we’ll call you!
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