Resources & references

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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.  

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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
Clients
Format
21 results Clear all
Music Therapy in Palliative Care
2015
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Clare O’Callaghan
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Oxford University Press
Country
Australia

This book chapter explains the effects of music therapy in palliative care. It is derived from the Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine (5th Ed) published by the Oxford University Press. Note: The link includes the full text of the chapter (i.e., 18 pages plus references).

Music Therapy in Substance Abuse Treatment with Tim Ringgold
2019
Type of reference
General information
Author
Tim Ringgold
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
WRAMTAS
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapist Tim Ringgold discusses the use of music therapy in substance abuse treatment, outlining his personal journey into the field, the five clinical goals summarized by the S.O.B.E.R. acronym, and related therapeutic interventions.

Music Therapy Reduces Pain in Palliative Care Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
2013
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Kathy Jo Gutgsell, Mark Schluchter, Seunghee Margevicius, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Pain and Symtpom Management
Country
United States (USA)

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of a single music therapy session to reduce pain in palliative care patients. This research validates that a single music therapy intervention incorporating therapist-guided autogenic relaxation and live music was effective in lowering pain in palliative care patients.

Music therapy support groups for cancer patients and caregivers: A mixed-methods approach
2015
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Abbey Lynn Dvorak
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Canadian Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Canada

This study explores how music therapy support groups improve physical, psychological, and social well-being in cancer patients and caregivers, showing benefits in pain, mood, stress, anxiety, and overall quality of life.

Music Therapy to Regulate Arousal and Attention in Patients With Substance Use Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Feasibility Study
2020
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Laurien Hakvoort, Sirik de Jong, Maartje van de Ree, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Netherlands

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.

Music therapy with adult burn patients in the intensive care unit: short-term analysis of electrophysiological signals during music-assisted relaxation
2024
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Jose Cordoba-Silva, Rafael Maya, Mario Valderrama, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Scientific Reports
Country
Colombia

This study analyzes electrophysiological signals during Music-Assisted Relaxation (MAR) with adult burn patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Results showed increased parasympathetic system activity, attention shifts, reduced muscle tone, and relaxation.

The Development of a Mindfulness-Based Music Therapy (MBMT) Program for Women Receiving Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer
2016
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Teresa Lesiuk
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Healthcare, 4(3)
Country
United States (USA)

This paper delineates the design and development of the mindfulness-based music therapy (MBMT) program implemented in a pilot study and includes clients’ narrative journal responses. Conclusions and recommendations, including recommendation for further exploration of the function of music in mindfulness practice are provided.

The Efficacy of Music Therapy Protocols for Decreasing Pain, Anxiety, and Muscle Tension Levels During Burn Dressing Changes: A Prospective Randomized Crossover Trial
2010
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Xueli Tan, Charles J. Yowler, Dennis M. Super, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Burn Care & Research
Country
United States (USA)

Read about a study exploring the efficacy of music therapy during dressing changes in burn patients. Results indicate a significant decrease in acute procedural pain, anxiety and muscle tension levels associated with daily burn care.

Therapeutic Effect of Music Therapy on Patients with End-stage Cancer: A Retrospective Study
2024
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Jiali Dong , Yanhua Qu
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Noise & Health
Country
China

This research article studies the effects of music therapy for patients with a terminal illness who are receiving end-of-life care within a family context. It studies the impact that music therapy can have on patients' immune system, quality of life, quality of sleep, and anxiety and depression levels.