Resources & references

An online destination for discovery & deeper understanding.

Check back often as we add more resources.

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
74 results Clear all
Music Therapy at UC Davis Children's Hospital
2023
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
UC Davis Health
Country
United States (USA)

Watch how music therapy is provided in a pediatric hospital setting to work on a variety of goals with children with diverse needs.

Music therapy doing wonders at Riverview
2026
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
CTV News
Country
Canada

Watch a video on how music therapist Loghan Puhach uses music therapy to support residents at the Riverview Health Centre.

Music Therapy for Hospice Patients: Moments with Erica from VITAS
2016
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
VITAS Healthcare
Country
United States (USA)

Watch music therapist Erica Santiago explain what music therapy is and how it can support patients in hospice care.

Music therapy for people with dementia
2024
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
University of Limerick
Country
Ireland

Researchers at the University of Limerick discuss their respective studies in music therapy and arts-based research among older adults with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Presentations include testimonials and music performances used in arts-based research.

Music therapy for people with substance use disorders
2022
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Claire Ghetti, Xi‐Jing Chen, Annette K Brenner, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Country
China
Netherlands
Norway
United Kingdom (UK)

This study reviews existing research to compare the effects of music therapy in addition to standard care versus standard care alone, or to standard care plus an active control intervention, on psychological symptoms, substance craving, motivation for treatment, and motivation to stay clean/sober.

Music Therapy: Group Music Pain Model
2018
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Veterans Health Administration (USA)
Country
United States (USA)

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.

Music therapy helps dementia patients
2018
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
WSLS 10
Country
United States (USA)

Symphony musicians, a music therapist, and a speech language pathologist work together with dementia patients to facilitate a therapeutic experience that enhances long term memories, reminiscence, and quality of life.

MUSIC THERAPY - Impact Insight Series - Benji
2018
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Australia
Country
Australia

Watch how Benji and his music therapist engage together to work towards his goals targeting collaboration, communication, and social skills.

MUSIC THERAPY - Impact Insight Series - Abigail
2017
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Australia
Country
Australia

Watch a video of a music therapist working with a young autistic girl. Goals discussed include communication, social skills and functional skills.

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 - The Nebraska Medical Center
2010
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Nebraska Medicine Nebraska Medical Center
Country
United States (USA)

Watch how certified music therapist Bridget Shevlin intervenes in a pediatric hospital centre to support children with complex illnesses at different moments, but even as they undergo medical treatments.

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.