Resources & references

This study examined the processes and experiences involved in the introduction of music therapy as an adjunct complementary therapy to palliative care in a hospice setting in the United Kingdom (UK). Results: Music therapy contains multiple mechanisms that can provide physical, psychological, emotional, expressive, existential and social support. 

Read an article exploring an online volunteer music therapy project offering support to frontline healthcare workers and their children during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recommendations for future practice in crisis intervention for music therapists is also discussed.

Watch how music therapy can support children, adolescents and their families in a pediatric hospital setting, and learn how music therapists contribute to interdisciplinary care teams.

Watch music therapist Becky Ickes describe how she uses music therapy to support children in a pediatric hospital setting.

Read a news article detailing a performance by students with emotional and behavioural challenges at a school. Erin Steiner, the music therapist at the school, explains that while they call it a show, the performances and displays are truly a presentation of the culmination of the year's work in music and art therapy sessions.

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 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.

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 an article featuring an interview with Julie Dawn Reid, a music therapist, explaining how music therapy can be used and what it may look like with individuals in addictions recovery. A discussion of the risks of music in this population, especially due to the strong associations between certain types of music and substance use is also included.

Listen to music therapist Calli Puko describe her work with adolescents in behavioural health. 

Watch music therapy intern Lucia Clohessy explain some of the science around music therapy's use and benefits in mental health care.

Watch how certified music therapist  Amy Smith supports children in a pediatric hospital setting, with specific examples from neonatal intensive care (NICU) and rehabilitation.