Resources & references

An online destination for discovery & deeper understanding.

Check back often as we add more resources.

The purpose of our resources database is to provide an easy access to knowledge about music therapy and its application with a diverse array of clientele, and to help answer questions from a diversity of visitors seeking information about music therapy. We therefore propose a selection of pertinent* references, however not exhaustive, given that each week more research and other information are published around the world.  

If you wish to contribute to our database, click on the button below. The proposed references are submitted to an analysis and a selection process by a team of music therapists from the Institute. Thank you in advance!

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Note (*) : the Institute does not endorse any promotional content, publicity or donation requests that might be included in any of the references.

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Type of reference
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152 results Clear all
Striking a Chord - Music Therapy at St. Martha's Hospital
2015
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Nova Scotia Health Authority Page
Country
Canada

 Since late 2013, music therapist Tom Curry has provided individual and group based music therapy services at St. Martha's Regional in Antigonish, arranged through the Arts Health Antigonish (AHA!) community collaboration.

Supporting communication skills with music therapy
2021
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Perkins School for the Blind
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapist Lisa Martino explains and shows how she uses music therapy to support students, including those with multiple disabilities, at the Perkins School for the Blind.

“The Hello Song” with Music Therapist Sophie | Children’s Music Fund
2023
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Children's Music Fund
Country
United States (USA)

A board-certified music therapist sings a hello song to a child with a chronic condition, in an individual music therapy session with his caregiver. Through singing and instrument play, the child improves his nonverbal communication skills.

The Impact of Music Therapy
2018
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
St. Louis Children's Hospital
Country
United States (USA)

Watch how music therapy helped a young girl with Kawasaki Disease Shock Syndrome improve her physical abilities and quality of life. Hear from her mother and music therapist, Christy Merrell, as they reflect on her journey and progress.

The Language of Lullabies: KU Professor Develops Music Therapy for Preemies
2014
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Kansas City PBS
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapist Deanna Hanson-Abromeit offers music therapy to premature babies in the community. Listen to her explain what music therapy is and how it benefits early child development.

The power of music as therapy in MS
2020
Type of reference
General information
Author
MBM productions
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Novartis
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapy enhances neuroplasticity among adults with multiple sclerosis (MS). Watch interviews from medical professionals and a music therapist, testimonials from clients, and live music therapy experiences.

The Scientific Basis of Music Therapy
2020
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Berklee Online
Country
United States (USA)

In this video series, Berklee College of Music Faculty Dr. Suzanne B. Hanser, a board certified music therapist, and Annette Philip, founder and director of the renowned Berklee Indian Ensemble, share simple strategies from the Berklee Online course "Music Therapy Techniques for Wellness" to help you enrich your mind, body, and spirit through music.

The Transformative Thread of Music Therapy
2022
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Chiltern Music Therapy
Country
United Kingdom (UK)

This video features three people of various ages and needs, including a person living with Parkinson's disease, who have benefited from music therapy. It includes testimonials and shows music therapy experiences that addressed goals such as enhancing emotional expression, mood, movement, speech, cognitive functioning, and quality of life.

Therabeat: Music Therapy for Kids
2015
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
CNN
Country
United States (USA)

This video provides music therapy live footage and testimonials of its impact in the life of children and their parents. It documents music therapy with young children within a developmental approach. It documents the approach and the work of Jennifer Puckett, MT-BC.

Therapist uses music to help dementia patients access and revive memories
2025
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
AARP
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapist Concetta Tomaino explains how she uses music therapy to help older adults living with dementia to enhance cognitive stimulation, emotional support, physical abilities, and overall wellness.

Click here to read the related article.

Tous en choeur - Épisode 6 - La musique comme thérapie
2025
Type of reference
General information
Language
French
Subtitle
French
Source / Publisher
AMI
Country
Canada

Watch the 6th episode of a documentary series hosted by Gregory Charles about the therapeutic effect of choir singing and music among adults living with Alzheimer's disease, an episode that includes the participation of the National Music Therapy Institute. Two sequences (at 4:05 and 11:30) feature an exploratory group music therapy session with dyads composed of 4 choir members and their caregivers, as well as interviews with Suzanne Caron, President, and Tanya Lavoie, music therapist.

Note: This video is available with closed captioning and a transcript.

Trauma and Music Therapy: Let the Healing Begin
2017
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
TEDx Talks
Country
United States (USA)

Karla Hawley, a board certified music therapist, shares how a nostalgic piece of music helped her address and overcome the pain of childhood abuse. Through her personal testimony, she describes how music can help individuals express their emotions and heal from traumatic experiences.