Benefits of Music Therapy Music therapy services benefit individuals and families facing a variety of challenges. Each individual and family has a unique situation. The following lists highlight possible benefits of music therapy. Music therapy is appropriate for the populations listed below and is also appropriate for individuals with other disabilities and disorders. Benefits of Music Therapy for Individuals with Autism: Encourages social interaction Communicates and teaches academic concepts through music Improves non-verbal communication skills (eye contact, turn-taking etc.) Improves attending skills (sustained attention, selective attention etc.) Reduces aggressive behaviors Opportunities for sensory stimulation in a structured environment Eases transitions between activities Benefits of Music Therapy for Individuals Who Have Cancer Include: Nonpharmacological form of pain and anxiety reduction Reduces feelings of nausea Encourages emotional expression Increases feeling of control Improves motivation for movement Engages the patient in relaxation Encourages development of coping techniques Provides a mean of communication between the patient and loved ones Benefits of Music Therapy for Individuals Who Have a Neurologic Disorder: Addresses gait deficits through Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS) Improves motor movement Improves speech rate, intelligibility and initiation Improves cognitive skills such as executive functioning skills Provides an outlet for emotional expression Creates a sense of control due to success Benefits of Music Therapy for Wellness Include: Reduces stress and anxiety Provides an outlet for emotional expression Nonpharmacological management of pain and discomfort Creates an environment that promotes physical rehabilitation Provides a sense of control due to success Creates positive changes in mood and emotional states Opportunities for memory recall and reminiscence Provides opportunities to for social interaction Provides opportunities for families and caregivers to a meaningful experience together Why Music Therapy? Music is a non-threatening medium that is motivating and engaging for individuals of all ages. We know from ongoing scientific research that music is processed on both sides of the brain. Music is processed in a different way than some other mediums such as speech. This unique processing can create opportunities for some exciting and unique results. Music therapy is appropriate for individuals with no musical experience, and also for individuals with musical experience. The music therapist is a competent musician who is trained to create successful and challenging applications that meet a person’s unique needs.