Resources & references

People with advanced dementia are at increased risk of institutionalization and experiencing distress. This study uses existing research to demonstrate that music therapy can effectively help reduce agitation and improve well-being within interpersonal contexts in long-term care.

Read an article written by music therapist/special educator, Jiří Kantor, on the unique aspects that music, as a method of connection and communication, can bring to the life and overall wellbeing of individuals with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities. Discussion of the important role that music therapists can play in interdisciplinary teams for these individuals is also discussed. 

Read an overview of research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) from the book Trauma-Informed Music Therapy, descriptions of key components of resilience in child development and trauma-informed care, and recommendations for music therapists.

This study explores the sociodemographic, clinical and intervention characteristics associated with clinically significant pain reductions for adults within a single music therapy session. Findings suggest that interventions involving singing, active instrument play, and relaxation/imagery may be more effective than interventions only involving listening. 

Click here to read a news article about the study.

This article presents three cases of military members, ex-child soldiers, and veterans in telehealth music therapy, showing positive responses and reductions in pain, anxiety, and depression, alongside key clinical, ethical, and technological insights.

Read an article discussing the use of an online group music therapy intervention for adults undergoing cancer treatment. Results show that, in spite of the limitations of online interventions, participants found the intervention to be useful in supporting them through their treatments.

This study examined telehealth Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) sessions for autistic children. Results determined improved motor skills and positive feedback from caregivers and therapists, suggesting telehealth NMT as a promising support for motor development.

Agitation in nursing home residents with dementia leads to a decrease in quality of life and an increase in psychotropic medication, patient distress, and caregiver burnout. This study shows that after six weeks, music therapy reduced agitation disruptiveness and prevented medication increases for persons with moderate to severe dementia.

Read a case study exploring the use of music therapy and, more specifically, therapeutic songwriting, on pain management during acute pain episodes in adolescent sickle cell disease patients. Results found that active music therapy interventions were more effective at managing pain than passive interventions, and that the song written during music therapy served as a coping resource by the teen outside of the therapeutic environment.

Read an article exploring the importance of integrating augmentatic and alternative communication (AAC) into music therapy practice. Different types of AAC are discussed, examples of how they can be used in music therapy sessions are provided, and recommendations for practical actions music therapists can take are included.

This article provides a review of current studies on music therapy interventions and children with acquired brain injury (ABI). The results explore the benefits of music therapy interventions, the use of music therapy as a motivator, and professional collaboration.

An intervention guide for music therapists and recreation/activity staff in retirement and long-term care homes, offering intergenerational music therapy experiences that support the health and well-being of both younger and older participants.

Click here to watch a video of this program.