Expert explains how music therapy can heal mind and body

Imagine a therapy that uses the universal language of music to heal the mind and body.

Music therapy, an emerging field gaining traction worldwide, does just that. A Dubai-based specialist explains how this powerful intervention is making waves in healthcare, offering new hope and harmony to patients of all ages.

“Music therapy is a clinical and evidence-based use of music intervention to accomplish individualised goals within a therapeutic relationship,” Sasha McLeod, a specialist at Georgetown Early Years Intervention Centre, told Khaleej Times.

“It is an organised therapeutic procedure that includes assessment, goal-setting, treatment, and suggestions, as opposed to a workshop or performance. This method is called the Transformational Design Model in Neurologic Music Therapy,” she explained, adding: “It is facilitated by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program or Master’s Degree and has mastered more than one instrument.”

McLeod said: “The primary goals of music therapy depend on the client population and their needs. These objectives may include fostering cognitive function and physical rehabilitation as well as strengthening mental health, communication skills, and emotional support.

“It can also aid in developmental milestones, emotional regulation, social skills, and patient and family attachment.”

Session structure
“The session might begin with a greeting song to establish rapport and set the session’s tone,” said McLeod. “This could be followed by a combination of activities such as instrument play, singing familiar songs, engaging in musical and improvisational techniques.”

A calming exercise, such as listening to soothing music or song, is frequently done at the end of the session to help the patient return to their regular schedule.

The effectiveness of other medical treatments increases when music therapy is incorporated smoothly with them. “It can reduce anxiety and stress, making patients more receptive to other treatments,” said McLeod. “Rhythmic entrainment can inspire and direct movement during physical therapy, enhancing outcomes for stroke or ASD patients. Music therapy aids in emotional expression in mental health by assisting patients in identifying and expressing challenging feelings.”

She, however, clarified: “Music therapy and its services are a protected title in some parts of the world and not necessarily a complementary therapy.

“Music therapy should not be seen as a complementary therapy along with sound therapy, reiki therapy, massage therapy, hypnotherapy, aromatherapy, and more.

“Music therapy goes further than complementary sessions. It integrates with the life of the person both inside and out of the clinical space towards a clinical goal. Music therapy is a multi-disciplinary allied health profession – meaning it works in conjunction with other health or medical interventions,” McLeod further explained.

Benefits of music therapy
Music therapy has shown particular efficacy for various conditions. Mcleod said it is effective for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, developmental disabilities, neurological disorders such as stroke and Parkinson’s disease, chronic pain, and pre- and post-surgical care.

The patients that receive music therapy benefit from a wide range of treatments. “Improvisation involves creating spontaneous music to express feelings and ideas, while receptive listening allows patients to listen to live or recorded music and discuss their emotional or cognitive responses,” McLeod said, outlining many popular techniques. Other essential skills include lyric analysis, instrument playing, movement to music, composition, and therapeutic singing.”

Customising sessions to meet each patient’s needs is essential to successful music therapy. “This involves assessing the individual’s needs, preferences, and therapeutic goals,” McLeod said, adding: “To guarantee that therapies are interesting and successful, factors including the patient’s age, developmental stage, health, musical background, and personal interests are taken into account.”