Resources & references

The aim of this study was to learn how music therapy sessions, held prior to the death of a loved one, impact spirituality in surviving caregivers of advanced cancer patients. Pre-loss music therapy can potentially assist caregivers during times of bereavement, as they retain memories of joy and empowerment, rather than memories of pain and distress, and find meaning through transcendence.

Read a bibliometric analysis of global music therapy research from 2000 to 2019. Results indicate that the overall trend in research is positive, and that the United States is leading in published studies.

This video features three people of various ages and needs, including a person living with Parkinson's disease, who have benefited from music therapy. It includes testimonials and shows music therapy experiences that addressed goals such as enhancing emotional expression, mood, movement, speech, cognitive functioning, and quality of life.

This study investigated the impact of a drumming experience on student's agressivity in adolescent males as part of a program addressing school violence. Results found a positive impact of drumming on reducing anger as well as an increase in areas such as self-esteem, cooperation, empathy, active listening and emotional expression.

Read a systematic review of the music therapy literature addressing the psychosocial needs of informal caregivers. Results indicated generally positive impacts on caregivers, and that the most common format of sessions involved both caregivers and care receivers jointly.

This study reviews research on rhythmic auditory stimulation, a neurologic music therapy technique that enhances gait in individuals recovering from stroke or living with Parkinson’s disease, or other neurological conditions.

Read an article that explores a group music therapy radio project for students with intellectual disabilities and their mothers. Results showed that the majority of students showed significant engagement with the recordings of their mother's voice, including significant emotional reactions, even though the mothers were not physically present. 

This video provides music therapy live footage and testimonials of its impact in the life of children and their parents. It documents music therapy with young children within a developmental approach. It documents the approach and the work of Jennifer Puckett, MT-BC.

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.

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.

Read a thesis paper on the potential uses of songwriting in a music therapy context to assist women who have experienced unplanned pregnancy loss through the grief process. 

Written by experienced American music therapists, this book explores how music therapy can enhance the quality of life for older adults, including those with physical impairments, Parkinson’s, stroke, or dementia. It also offers strategies for caregivers to use music in supporting physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being.