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.

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Languages
Type of reference
Clients
Format
37 results Clear all
Music therapy in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: a comprehensive literature review
2014
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Thomas Ostermann, Wolfgang Schmid
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics
Country
Germany

This research article evaluates current studies that explore the benefits of music therapy for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). The results showed that music therapy offers psychosocial and emotional benefits such as improving self-acceptance and reducing anxiety and depression.

Music Therapy to Meet the Needs of Forcibly Displaced Children: Teachers', Music Therapy Students, and Administrators' Experiences from the Initial Phases of a School Project for Ukrainian Children
2026
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Viggo Krüger, Julie Liisberg, Sanna Martine Sørum, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy
Country
Norway

Read an article about a music therapy program in a school setting with the goal of supporting refugee children as they settle into their host country. Results demonstrate the importance of cultural sensitivity, staff training, seeking external funding, and incorporating music therapy as part of a holistic approach for success in the program.

Music Therapy with Military Service Members and Veterans
2021
Type of reference
General information
Author
V. Dougherty, S. Hawkins, J. Francis, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
American Music Therapy Association
Country
United States (USA)

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.

Musicoterapia y una perspectiva histórica y sociológica sobre la muerte
2022
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Pablo Sebastián de la Fuente
Language
Spanish
Source / Publisher
Ecos. Revista científica de musicoterapia y disciplinas afines
Country
Argentina

This article presents how music therapy can be incorporated in end-of-life care, through the lens of Philippe Ariès' theories of death.

My Job: Music Therapist
2016
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Nemours KidsHealth
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapist, Trish, explains what music therapy is, how it supports patients in pediatric medical settings, and what her job entails.

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.

¿Qué es la musicoterapia? - Carla Navarro, Pedro Vinuesa et al.
2015
Type of reference
General information
Language
Spanish
Subtitle
Spanish
Source / Publisher
Neuras Ciencia
Country
Spain

Watch interviews with music therapists Carla Navarro, Pedro Vinuesa, Maria Martinez-Gil, and Paula Ramirez describing what music therapy is, who it can benefit, and how it can help. Client testimonials are also included. 

The Effect of Music Therapy on Mood States in Neurological Patients: A Pilot Study
2002
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Wendy L. Magee, Jane W. Davidson
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
United States (USA)

This research article investigates how music therapy influences the mood levels of adults with multiple sclerosis (MS), traumatic brain injury (TB), and other types of brain injuries. The results demonstrated that participants had elevated mood levels after engaging in individual music therapy sessions.

The Lleida auditorium displaces the medical consultation to treat chronic pain with music sessions
2026
Type of reference
General information
Language
Catalan
Spanish
English
Source / Publisher
Lleida News
Country
Spain

Read an article discussing a new program allying the fields of health care and the arts. The program consists of 6 group music therapy sessions targeting emotional well-being for individuals with chronic pain. The unique setting for this program, in an auditorium rather than a clinical space, exemplifies the blending of the two fields.

Therapeutic songwriting to enhance wellbeing and decrease depression in older people living in residential care: A lyrics analysis of participant-composed songs
2025
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Jasmin Eickholt, Jeanette Tamplin, & Imogen Clark
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Nordic Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Germany

Read an article describing a content analysis study of lyrics written during a therapeutic songwriting intervention for older adults with depression living in residential care settings. Results give insight into meaningful aspects of life for this group of individuals, including reminiscing, going out, family and friends, and gratitude, which may help promote wellbeing and lower depression.

Therapist uses music to help dementia patients access and revive memories
2025
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
AARP
Country
United States (USA)

Music therapist Concetta Tomaino explains how she uses music therapy to help older adults living with dementia to enhance cognitive stimulation, emotional support, physical abilities, and overall wellness.

Click here to read the related article.

Tuning In: The Role of Music Therapy in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment
2023
Type of reference
General information
Author
Kristen Davis
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Homeswood Ravensview
Country
Canada

This article provides general information on how music therapy can support individuals with various mental health needs. It explains what music therapy is, who can benefit, how it can support adults and teens, and music therapy experiences that are beneficial in offering emotional support.