Resources & references

Read a feasibility study on the development of Music Enriched Verb Network Strengthening Training (MeVNeST), a new, interdisciplinary improvisation based singing protocol for people with aphasia. Results suggest that this protocol may be particularly effective in patients with combined apraxia of speech and aphasia, and participants indicated preferring the inclusion of music over the original speech and language pathology intervention of Verb Network Strengthening Training (VNeST). Limitations and recommendations for future research are also discussed.  

Music therapy is used to help autistic children address develpmental goals. Watch registered music therapists lead an individual session with a child using instrument playing, improvisation, and singing to enhance communication and language development.

This pilot study explored music therapy for children with delayed speech development. Results showed that it was effective in improving phonology, speech comprehension, communication, and cognitive functioning.

Music therapist Max Terán explains what music therapy is, who can benefit, how it can help diverse populations, and how he became a music therapist.

Read an article exploring the use of collaborative music therapy and speech-language therapy sessions on language/communication rehabilitation for pediatric populations with acquired brain injuries. Findings showed that these collaborative sessions fostered engagement, strengthened foundational communication skills, and promoted greater communication intent. 

Read an article exploring the importance of integrating augmentatic and alternative communication (AAC) into music therapy practice. Different types of AAC are discussed, examples of how they can be used in music therapy sessions are provided, and recommendations for practical actions music therapists can take are included.

Watch music therapist Winnie Choy lead a drumming activity with her client to build finger strength and coordination, learning to take turns, listen and share, and practice communicating in her home language, Cantonese.

Review of current research supporting the use of music therapy and music-based interventions in pediatric neurorehabilitation. Results demonstrated measurable benefits of music therapy in multidisciplinary teams in three principle domains: gait rehabilitation, upper limb function, and speech recovery.

Watch how music therapist Belinda Burns works with Hudson, a young boy with developmental delays.

Click here to watch a video of Hudson's progress three years later.

Watch how music therapist Belinda Burns works with Hudson, a young boy with developmental delays.

Click here to watch a video of Hudson's music therapy treatment three years prior.

Music therapist Natalia Garbarets explains what music therapy is, how it differs from musical education, and what are its benefits.

Watch a video about the NGO Música para el autismo, which provides music opportunities, including music therapy, to autistic individuals. A session with one girl is included, as well as discussion of specific approaches, like the Benenzon method and neuromotor techniques.