Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Music Therapy?
A: The American Music Therapy Association defines Music Therapy as: “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.” Music Therapy is a complimentary therapy used as a vessel to
change behavior, promote wellness, alleviate stress, manage pain,
express feelings, encourage creativity, improve communication, increase
social interaction, and aid in physical rehabilitation.
Q: Who can benefit from Music Therapy?
A: Everyone can benefit from
Music Therapy! Here are a few populations where Music Therapy has proven
effective:
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
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Intellectual Disabilities
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Mental Illness
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Substance Abuse
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Alzheimer’s and Dementia
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Geriatric
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Hospice patients
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Early Childhood Intervention
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Learning Disabilities
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Special Education Classrooms
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Hospital Units such as PICU, NICU, and Oncology
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Rehabilitation
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Respite
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Adaptive Music Lessons
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Visually Impaired
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Traumatic Brain Injury
Q: What objectives does
Music Therapy target?
A: Music Therapists are equipped to assess individuals and groups
with all needs. After an assessment, the Music Therapists puts together
a treatment protocol and designs goals to address:
- Socialization with Therapist and Peers
- Increasing Communication Skills
- Promote Cognitive Functioning
- Nonpharmacological Management of Pain and
Discomfort
- Creative Expression
- Eye contact, including Tracking and Localizing
- Fine and Gross Motor Movement
- Increasing Attention and Maintaining Focus
- Healthy Emotional Expression
- Decreasing Tactile Defensiveness
- Coping with
Auditory Sensitivities
- Sensory Integration
- Self Awareness and Self Actualization
- Memory Recall
- Awareness of Environment
- Increasing and Promoting Thought Processes
Q: Is Music Therapy covered under Medicare or Medicaid in Virginia? A. Currently, the state of Virginia does not cover Music Therapy. However, there are some insurance companies that will reimburse services.
