An Introduction to Music

Therapy to Children
Anita Mitra
Masoom Playschool, Air Force
Lohegaon
 What is Music Therapy?
• Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-
based use of music interventions to
accomplish individualized goals within a
therapeutic relationship by a credentialed
professional who has completed an approved
music therapy program (AMTA, 2009)
 What do Music Therapists do?
• Assess strengths and weaknesses in the following
areas: affective, emotional and behavioral responses,
physical health, social functioning, communication
abilities, and cognitive skills
• Design music sessions for individuals and groups based
on client needs using patient/client preferred music
and interventions like: music improvisation, receptive
music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music
and imagery, music performance, and learning through
music
• Participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning,
ongoing evaluation, and follow up and discharge
planning.
 What Objectives can Music Therapy
Address?
• Promote wellness
• Manage stress
• Alleviate pain
• Express feelings
• Enhance memory
• Improve communication
• Promote physical rehabilitation
• Enhance/improve socialization
• Teach/enhance educational objectives
 Misconceptions about Music Therapy
Treatment
• Musical ability is required to benefit from
music therapy
• Certain types of music are more therapeutic
than others.
– All styles of music can be useful in effecting
change in a client or patient's life.
– Individual's preferences, circumstances and need
for treatment, and the client or patient's goals
help to determine the types of music a music
therapist may use (AMTA, 1999)
What Children can Benefit from Music
Therapy?
• Children and the elderly with mental health
needs
• Children with developmental and learning
disabilities
• Children with Alzheimer's disease and other aging
related conditions
• Children with substance abuse problems
• Children with brain injuries and physical
disabilities
• Children with acute and chronic pain
• Children who are terminally ill
THANK YOU