Music therapy helps to regulate the mind’s anxiety-ridden thoughts, calm brain activity, and soothe physical pain. Music slows the body’s rhythms, shifts troubling moods, and can be the impetus for taking steps toward changing behaviour. Alternatively, it can recharge us and help us step up our exercise game. Musicians intuitively know this, and have been writing songs across time and cultures, on themes of grief, loss, and heartbreak, as well as joy and celebration.
Generally, there are two types of music therapy: receptive music therapy and active or expressive music therapy. Receptive music therapy is when music (live or recorded) is selectively chosen by the therapist for the purpose of alleviating stress and pain, and altering mood; it is also used as a relaxation technique and to connect with sensory experiences. Alternatively, in active music therapy, the client participates in the music process by singing or playing instruments. Previous musical skill is not required, for example, playing hand drums or making sounds with instruments.
Music therapy is an evidence-based method. Yet, anecdotally, music is known for its therapeutic powers; it connects people socially, spiritually, and emotionally. It is not uncommon to hear someone say that a specific song, album, or artist “got them through” a particularly painful experience, or that it inspired them onward. In this way, music therapy often incorporates discussion of music, such as favourite songs, bands, and/or albums and how they make us feel, how we relate to the music or lyrics, and/or the meaning we find in them. Additionally, through the (re)creation of songs, lyrical analysis, or through improvisation with sound, music can be cathartic and therapeutic.
I have always loved music and some of my earliest memories involve music: My mom waking up early in the morning, starting the day with AM radio songs that played through the house all day. I also remember, at five-years old, dancing with the album covers of Elvis Presley, listening to his albums on my parents’ stereo. I was in a happy, carefree place. To this day, when I hear these songs on the radio, I instantly recall the lyrics and they bring happy memories of my childhood. One of my Metis aunts had a well-worn acoustic guitar and her teenage sons had electric guitars, which intrigued me. At age 13, I too, became interested in electric guitar and fantasized playing along to newly discovered rock bands like Led Zeppelin. At age 15, my parents bought me my first electric guitar – a black Sears-model replica of the iconic Jimmy Page guitar. It probably weighed as much as I did back then, but it launched a lifelong music journey, which forever changed my life in terms of social circles, learning curves, and has been a go-to source of emotional support. Although I put music on hold many times over my academic career, over the last seven years I have consistently played at a music studio where I rent space. Improvisation is a favourite pastime, as learning to master sound spontaneously is a skill that transfers when dealing with life’s uncertainties. Music both heals and inspires me. Whether playing or listening to music, it is my go-to medicine.
I am here to help you use music as a way to reduce anxiety and increase relaxation. Together, we can use music as a means for reflection, and as a tool for lyrical insight and inspiration. Music speaks to nearly everyone and, as mentioned above, you do not have to be a musician to benefit from music therapy!
For evidence-based research, other related articles, and a cautionary note (e.g., music therapy is not a cure-all approach!), please see the resources and references list below.
Resources & References
Bain, C, Boggan, C. and Grzanka, P. (2018). Acknowledging identity, privilege, and oppression in music therapy. Retrieved from https://blog.oup.com/2018/03/identity-privilege-oppression-music-therapy/
Canadian Association of Music Therapists. (2020). Music therapists, key to your health. Retrieved from https://www.musictherapy.ca/
Hiller, J., & Gardstrom, S. (2019). Warning: Music therapy comes with risks. Retrieved from
Music Therapy Association of BC. (2020). What is music therapy? Retrieved from https://www.mtabc.com/
Novotney, A. (2013, November). Music as medicine. Monitor on psychology, 44(10), 46. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/monitor/2013/11/music
Whiteman, H. (2015, November) The power of music: how it can benefit health. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/302903
Image: Lisa Bayer
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