 |
Music Therapy is the planned and creative use of music to attain and maintain health and well being. People of any age or ability may benefit from a music therapy program, regardless of musical skill or background. Music therapy involves a structured treatment program, which focuses on meeting therapeutic aims, which distinguishes it from musical entertainment or education - it may address physical, psychological, emotional, cognitive and social needs of individuals within a therapeutic relationship.
Music therapy programs may address a variety of objectives such as socialisation, communication, relaxation, stimulation, pain or stress management, emotional expression or coping, self-esteem, motivation, independence, physical or motor skills and cognitive skills. Music therapy can involve a range of musical applications including instrument playing, singing, vocalising, composition, song/lyric writing, music and movement, listening, improvisation and performance.
Music therapy programs operate in a variety of settings such as medical, community based, special education, aged care, paediatric, hospice, psychiatry, early intervention, correctional facilities, rehabilitation and private practice.
Within Queensland Health, the largest music therapy department is located at the Royal Children’s Hospital. Music therapists provide services to children with complex medical conditions and their families. They assess and implement individualised music therapy programs for each patient through a range of musical interventions including instrumental playing, singing, song/lyric writing, music & movement, improvisation and performance. The following areas may be addressed:
Inpatient and limited outpatient services are provided. The music therapy department provides core services in the following clinical areas:
Music therapists are registered with the Australian Music Therapy Association. They must be proficient musicians before undertaking one of the tertiary courses of training accredited with the Australian Music Therapy Association.
Other languages