Resources & references

This article examines two cases of military service members treated with music therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury, and other psychological issues, highlighting how music performance can support personal growth, rehabilitation, and community change.

This study presents music therapy group work with six soldiers diagnosed as suffering from combat or terror related PTSD. Some reduction in PTSD symptoms was observed following drumming, especially increased sense of openness, togetherness, belonging, sharing, closeness, connectedness and intimacy, as well as achieving a non-intimidating access to traumatic memories, facilitating an outlet for rage and regaining a sense of self-control.

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.

This research article presents a case study of an adult man with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who participated in music therapy sessions. The results determined that music improvisation improved affect regulation, exploration of trauma-related issues, and self-agency.

This article describes current practices on the use of music therapy to support individuals with trauma exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It reviews current studies to determine how music therapy can provide emotional support, regulate emotions, reduce anxiety and isolation, and elevate mood. 

At McGuire VA Medical Center, Hope Kumme, a certified music therapist, uses music to help veterans with PTSD and other chronic ailments. Learn how group music therapy sessions have helped clients improve pain management, mood, and quality of life.

This feasability study explores the effects of short-term individual music therapy sessions among adults with substance use disorder (SUD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Results show that music therapy can reduce hyperarousal and increase self-regulation, attention, and cognitive functioning in this population.

This article explores music therapy models that enhance neurorehabilitaiton among service members with brain injuries and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

This reference book examines how music therapy complements traditional treatments for active military service members, veterans, and their families affected by traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), highlighting its benefits in individual and group sessions, and the potential of virtual settings.

This literature review examines music therapy treatment with active military service members and veterans. Common session formats and music experiences, the development of music therapy as a a profession, and gaps within the current body of research are discussed.

This fact sheet, developed by the American Music Therapy Association, describes how music therapy is effective in supporting military service members and veterans. It describes how active and receptive music experiences can address physical, cognitive, communication, social, and emotional goals.

A pilot study of a the SMAART music therapy protocol shows that it can help prisoners with a Post Traumatic Stres Disorder (PTSD) in a Penitentiary Psychiatric Center. Neurologic music therapy techniques, guided breathing, singing and rhythmic exercises were effective in reducing hyperarousal and improving attention among participants.