Resources & references

An online destination for discovery & deeper understanding.

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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.

General search

Languages
Type of reference
Clients
Format
15 results Clear all
Active Music Therapy in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Matched Control Study
2004
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Wolfgang Schmid, David Aldridge
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Europe
Germany

This research article explores the effects of Nordoff Robbins- based music therapy sessions in treating patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The study demonstrated that music therapy decreased depression and anxiety and improved self-acceptance and life-quality among individuals with MS.

Dr. Helen Shoemark discusses the effectiveness of Music Therapy in Paediatrics
2016
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Australian Music Therapy Association
Country
Australia

Music therapist and professor Helen Shoemark discusses the benefits of music therapy in pediatrics, including the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), highlighting pain management, physiological regulation, bonding, mental well-being, research in pediatric settings, and empowering families.

Click here to see the referenced video.

Healing Through Music Therapy at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
2025
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
UCSF Health
Country
United States (USA)

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.

How Music Therapy Can Help People With Cancer
2025
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
American Cancer Society
Country
United States (USA)

Learn what music therapy is and how it can help individuals with cancer as per the American Cancer Society. Using a combination of music experiences and conversation, music therapy can help manage symptoms and process emotions among patients.

Mindful Self-Compassion and Music Therapy as a Resource for Individuals with Chronic Pain: A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study
2026
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Diandra Russo, Joram Ronel & Friederike Haslbeck
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy
Country
Switzerland

Read an article exploring the feasibilty of incorporating mindful self-compassion into music therapy sessions for patients living with chronic pain. Results highlighted the need for future research to better interpret the results, but found a general increase in levels of pain acceptance following the treatment sessions.

Music brings Parkinson's patients together and helps them regain skills
2023
Type of reference
General information
Author
Michele Skalicky
Language
English
Source / Publisher
KSMU Radio
Country
United States (USA)

A music therapy group for individual's with Parkinson's disease is hosted on a weekly basis at Drury University. A music therapist and participants share how the sessions improve neurorehabilitation and symptom management through drumming, instrument playing, and singing.  The text includes an audio excerpt embedded in the article.

Music Therapy at Texas Children's Hospital
2013
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Texas Children's Hospital
Country
United States (USA)

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

Music Therapy at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
2011
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (UPMC)
Country
United States (USA)

See how music therapy is used in a pediatric hospital setting. Goals discussed include tolerance of medical procedures, pain and anxiety management, and stabilization of vital signs.

Music Therapy for Children with Oncology & Hematological Conditions and Their Families: Advancing the Standards of Psychosocial Care
2022
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
David Knott, Caitlin Krater, Jessica MacLean, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nursing
Country
United States (USA)

This research article evaluated how music therapy can help children, teenagers, and young adults with cancer and blood disorders. It determined that music therapy is highly beneficial to have in an interdisciplinary team to manage symptoms and provide psychosocial care. 

Music Therapy - The Nebraska Medical Center
2010
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Nebraska Medicine Nebraska Medical Center
Country
United States (USA)

Watch how certified music therapist Bridget Shevlin intervenes in a pediatric hospital centre to support children with complex illnesses at different moments, but even as they undergo medical treatments.

Orchestrating a New Path for Multiple Sclerosis: Achieving Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional Rehabilitation Goals Through Physical and Music Therapy
2023
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Megan Weigel, Brian Hutchinson, Wendy L. Magee, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
International Journal of Multiple Sclerosis Care
Country
United States (USA)

This research article investigates who how music therapy and physical therapy can benefit individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). It demonstrates how these types of therapies can enhance rehabilitation, treat symptoms, decrease the use of medication, and improve overall wellbeing.

RMT's Change Lives Series - Episode 1 - Rose's Story
2016
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Australian Music Therapy Association
Country
Australia

Discover how music therapy in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) supports premature infants and their families by promoting relaxation, stabilizing vital signs, fostering development, and strengthening parent–infant bonding.

Click here to watch a video that discusses this story further.