Resources & references

Read an article written by a music therapist on the ways that purposefully listening to music can help an individual. He describes his role as a music therapist and provides a case example of his work with an adult cancer patient in emotional processing.

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.

Learn what music therapy is, who it benefits, and how it has been practiced in China throughout history. The article also includes quotes from Lin Sisi, a board-certified music therapist in China.

Click here to read about the research of Lin Sisi and other music therapists in China.

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.

This research article provides an overview of music therapy’s beginnings and development in the field of autism in Argentina over the last 15 years.

Learn about the development of a group music therapy program for autistic adult women targeting self-expression, communication, and impulse control.

Learn how music therapy is being used to help individuals with neurological conditions work towards their goals. It also shows patient testimonies and perspectives from a music therapist (includes a video, 2:17).