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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3 results Clear all
Effects of music therapy and music-based interventions in the treatment of substance use disorders: A systematic review.
2017
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Louisa Hohmann, Joke Bradt, Thomas Stegemann, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
PLoS One
Country
Austria
United States (USA)
Norway

The authors of this review conducted a systematic search on published articles examining effects of music, music therapy (MT) and music based interventions (MBI), and found 34 quantitative and six qualitative studies. Beneficial effects of MT and MBI on emotional and motivational outcomes, participation, locus of control, and perceived helpfulness were reported. The analysis of the qualitative studies revealed four themes: emotional expression, group interaction, development of skills, and improvement of quality of life.

Music Therapy for Adults with Mental Health and Substance Use Conditions
2021
Type of reference
General information
Author
American Music Therapy Association, Inc.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
American Music Therapy Association, Inc.
Country
United States (USA)

This fact sheet from the American Music Therapy Association provides information about music therapy practices for adults with mental health and substance use challenges. This page provides information on relevant definitions and statistics, the types of mental health settings in which music therapists work, potential outcomes of music therapy, contraindications for music therapy, the clinical process, and effectiveness research.

Music Therapy, Spiritual Health Needs, and Substance Use Disorders: A United States Survey Study
2026
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Jonah Pomerantz
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy
Country
United States (USA)

Read an article on how music therapists in the United States address spiritual needs in individuals with substance use disorders. Results found that a variety of methods are employed, humanistic approaches are the most common, and that both song discussion and lyric analysis were useful in targeting spiritual goals.