Family Music Therapy
When life takes unexpected turns, sometimes it can be difficult to manage new challenges as well as changing family dynamics.
Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music to treat non-music therapeutic goals under the care of a board-certified music therapist.
In a couples and family music therapy session, the music therapist and family work together to address emotional, psychological, cognitive, social, communication, motor, or spiritual goals using a variety of musical interventions. Potential music therapy experiences might include music listening, lyric analysis, songwriting, and expressive instrument play.
More About Couples and Family Music Therapy Sessions
What happens in each session?
While sessions look different for every person, you can expect the first session to involve getting to know your music therapist, reviewing your music therapy intake and consent forms, and identifying your treatment goals. In the first session you may also listen to music, play instruments, or sing! We think that’s the best part. In subsequent sessions, various creative interventions such as songwriting, music and art, or sharing songs will be used to help you move toward your goals. Your music therapist will be with you every step of the way to check-in on your progress and help you establish new goals as needed.
Do I have to play an instrument to participate?
No, you do not have to have prior musical experience to participate in and benefit from music therapy.
What does research say about the therapeutic use of music?
Research has shown that music can:
- Reduce anxiety, stress, depression, or pain
- Enhance intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships
- Improve self-esteem and self-awareness
- Provide a safe space for emotional release and self-expression
- Increase motivation
- Promote bonding
What is a board-certified music therapist?
A board-certified music therapist (MT-BC) is a professional who has completed an approved degree in music therapy and 1200 hours of clinical training, including a supervised internship. The credential is granted by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) following a candidate passing the national board certification exam. MT-BC’s are responsible for continuing education and adhering to the ethical and professional standards of the profession. For more information, visit the American Music Therapy Association’s website: https://www.musictherapy.org/.
What topics can I work on in music therapy?
In music therapy we can address:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Stress
- Development of Coping and/or Relaxation Skills
- Self-Esteem
- Trauma
- Grief & Loss
- Relationships
- Self-Expression
- And much more…
It’s Easy to Get Started
Schedule a Q&A
Set up a free 15-minute Q&A session with a board-certified music therapist to ask any questions you have about music therapy.
Book an Assessment
Our board-certified music therapist will conduct an assessment to determine if music therapy is an effective treatment and establish goals for future sessions.
Make Some Music
If an assessment determines that music therapy is an effective treatment, it’s time to make music! We’ll work together to determine a therapy schedule that’s right for you.