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What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is the clinical application of music as provided by a credentialed professional who encourages, maintains, and promotes improved health in individuals with various health implications. Individuals receiving music therapy do not need a background in music nor a "disability" to benefit from music therapy sessions. In times of difficulties, our complicated emotions might be challenging to express, limiting our ability to find relief. Music therapists cultivate resilience in our clients using music as a tool to develop personal growth and cultivate resilience for all life's challenges.
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"Music with Sydney"
(Music Therapist: Sydney Freedman)
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A modified music class with Sydney aims to make learning an instrument enjoyable and engaging. Students can choose from piano, guitar, ukulele, or percussion. The lesson will involve addressing the student's interests and learning styles as decisions are made about the content of the lessons and methods of instruction. Students can be taught music in various ways, including games, props, alternative communication tools, sensory breaks, and other imaginative strategies. These sessions can be beneficial for people on the autism spectrum as well as neurodiverse people who can benefit from music therapy in a variety of ways.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does Music Therapy do?
Research and anecdotal information indicate that music therapy is a useful tool to improve health and well-being. Rehabilitative work in music therapy can occur in the physical, psychological, emotional, cognitive, social, and spiritual realms. If someone is aware that music is helpful for them or feels that music therapy would help, music therapy may be an excellent choice for them.
What should I expect from my Music Therapist?
INFORMATION – Your Music Therapist will develop a plan in consultation with you and/or your guardian to work on appropriate goals for your music therapy program. Feel comfortable to ask questions to help you understand the process of your music therapy experience.
PROFESSIONALISM - Certified Music Therapists honour a strict code of ethics set out by the Canadian Association for Music Therapy. Client confidentiality and trust are held in the highest regard.
How are Music Therapists trained?
In Canada, music therapists complete a four year Bachelor's degree or equivalent as determined by the Accreditation Review Board of the Canadian Association for Music Therapy. Approved curriculum requires rigorous study and a thorough understanding of many related scientific and artistic disciplines including but not limited to psychology, physiology, anatomy pathology, psychology, music theory, history, performance, music therapy theory, practice, and philosophy.
To be accredited in Canada, Music Therapists must complete a 1000-hour supervised internship and then submit documentation of music therapy clinical work for approval by the Canadian Association for Music Therapy Accreditation Review Board. Music therapists may specialize in a wide variety of clinical work dependent upon clinical experience, expertise and advanced training.
What kind of techniques do Music Therapists use?
Music Therapists use music in both active and passive ways to address the needs of the client. Music Therapy activities might include such things as improvisation, song writing, listening, working with music and imagery, story making with music, and singing or actively learning to play an instrument. Activities are developed based on the needs and interests of the client and grounded in music therapy research and sound psychological principles.
How much does it cost?
At RMS, Music Therapy Sessions are charged by hourly rate starting from 30 minutes session, 45 minutes, or 1 hour. Please contact us for details regarding fees and schedules.