Resources & references

An online destination for discovery & deeper understanding.

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The purpose of our database is to provide an easy access to knowledge about music therapy and its application with a diverse array of clientele.  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.  The choice of references aims to offer a variety of types of contents, such as scientific publications and other more general ones, in text, video or audio formats, to help answer questions from a diversity of visitors seeking information about music therapy. 

If you have resources to propose for our database, click on the button below to submit the required information.  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.
  • The proposed references are submitted to an analysis process and selection by a team of music therapists from the Institute.

 

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42 results Clear all
The effects of a Single Electronic Music Improvisation Session on the Pain of Adults with Sickle Cell Disease: A Mixed Methods Pilot Study
2018
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Samuel Rodgers-Melnick, Nadine Matthie, Coretta Jenerette, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
United States (USA)

This study investigated feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a single-session electronic music improvisation with a music therapist to diminish pain intensity and improve pain relief and mood in adults with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Qualitatively, there were two prominent themes directly related to music: 1) music listening and music therapy offered many positive and few negative effects; and 2) music therapists provided comfort beyond the music. 

The impact of group music therapy on anxiety, stress, and wellbeing levels, and chemotherapy-induced side effects for oncology patients and their caregivers during chemotherapy: a retrospective cohort study
2025
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Andrés Salgado-Vasco, Juliana Torres-Morales, Clara Inés Durán-Rojas, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Country
Colombia

Read a study evaluating the impact of group music therapy sessions among patients undergoing chemotherapy and their caregivers. Results showed reduced anxiety and stress, improved wellbeing for both patients and caregivers, and fewer chemotherapy-related side effects in patients.

The multimodal vibroacoustic music therapy for functional neurological disorder: The MTFUND clinical protocol and initial impressions from multiple perspectives
2024
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Mikaela Leandertz, Esa Ala-Ruona
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Approaches: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Finland

This study explored how vibroacoustic therapy and active music therapy can be integrated to help individuals with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). It investigated participants’ experiences in treatment and enhancing manage symptoms.

The significance of the process of music therapy for children with multiple social and communication disabilities
2019
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Sara Marta Knapik-Szweda
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Voices
Country
Poland

Read an article presenting two case studies of music therapy, in particular, improvisational music therapy and neurologic music therapy, to target social and communication goals in young multiply-disabled children.

When music is medicine for kids coping with cancer
2015
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
PBS News Hour
Country
United States (USA)

Watch how music therapist Betsy Hartman supports children with cancer in a pediatric hospital setting.

When words don’t come easy
2024
Type of reference
General information
Author
Hayley Antipas
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Australian Music Therapy Association
Country
Australia

This article describes the experience of a registered music therapist who offered music therapy services to an older adult with early onset dementia. It provides clinical examples of what music therapy is and how it can improve the quality of life of older adults.