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. 

Note (*) : the Institute does not endorse any promotional content, publicity or donation requests that might be included in any of the references.

Language
Type of reference
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28 results
A Conversation About… Mental Health and Music Therapy: Therapeutic Outcomes
2024
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Mental Health Professionals' Network
Country
Australia

In this podcast episode, Clinical Psychologist Professor Mark Creamer, and Registered Music Therapists: Dr Jason Kenner and Dr Jennifer Bibb explore what music therapy aims to achieve, treatment goals and why change occurs. Expand your knowledge by hearing about the difference between individual and group sessions, the ways in which music therapy can meet short and long-term goals, and how music therapists use their unique skills and methods to provide collaborative care.

A Conversation About… Mental Health and Music Therapy: Therapeutic Outcomes (PDF transcript)
2024
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Mental Health Professionals' Network
Country
Australia

In this transcription of a podcast episode, Clinical Psychologist Professor Mark Creamer, and Registered Music Therapists: Dr Jason Kenner and Dr Jennifer Bibb explore what music therapy aims to achieve, treatment goals and why change occurs. Expand your knowledge by hearing about the difference between individual and group sessions, the ways in which music therapy can meet short and long-term goals, and how music therapists use their unique skills and methods to provide collaborative care.

A penguin on the moon: Self-organizational processes in improvisational music therapy in neurological rehabilitation
2014
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Wolfgang Schmid
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Nordic Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Norway

This research article explores how improvisational music therapy can promote neurological rehabilitation among individuals with neurologic disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS). It discusses how music improvisation can improve self-organizational processes, attunement with self and others, and communication.

Active Music Therapy in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Matched Control Study
2004
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Wolfgang Schmid, David Aldridge
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Music Therapy
Country
Europe
Germany

This research article explores the effects of Nordoff Robbins- based music therapy sessions in treating patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The study demonstrated that music therapy decreased depression and anxiety and improved self-acceptance and life-quality among individuals with MS.

Descubre la magia de la MUSICOTERAPIA en Hospitales | Humanización de los Servicios de Salud
2022
Type of reference
General information
Language
Spanish
Subtitle
Spanish
Source / Publisher
Simbiotia by Albert Cervera
Country
Argentina
Spain

Music therapists Antoni Aceves, Joel Olivé, and Rolando Benenzon discuss what music therapy is, its potential applications, and its therapeutic benefits across diverse populations.

How music therapy is helping psychiatric patients heal at UofL Health
2021
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
UofL Health
Country
United States (USA)

University of Louisville (UofL) Health is integrating music therapy into its care plan for inpatient psychiatric patients at UofL Hospital. This video introduces you to Katelyn Farris, the music therapist who is helping patients relax and recover through the soothing sounds of music.

Ivy’s Story - Music Therapy at BC Children’s Hospital
2022
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Music Heals
Country
Canada

This video features the story of a young patient's healing from leukemia, who benefitted from music therapy during her hospital stay. Testimonials from the child, the parents, the music therapist and a pediatrician are shown.

La musicoterapia rompe las barreras del silencio
2023
Type of reference
General information
Author
Sheila Pereiro
Language
Spanish
Subtitle
Spanish
Source / Publisher
TEDx Talk
Country
Spain

Music therapist Sheila Pereiro shares about her experiences working with diverse populations and how music therapy can improve self-expression, connection with others, and quality of life.

Music and Music Therapy Interventions in Clinical Practice
2025
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Alfredo Raglio (editor)
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Springer Cham
Country
International
Italy

This textbook provides an overview of practical and comprehensive guidance on the application of music therapy in clinical settings. The chapters are written with an evidence-based approach written by scholars and practicioners in music therapy and related fields.

Music therapists promote well-being
2022
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Subtitle
English
Source / Publisher
Alberta Health Services
Country
Canada

This video features an individual who was paralyzed due to a motor vehicle collision and participated in music therapy sessions. The video includes clips of music therapy sessions, testimonials from the patient, and interviews from certified music therapists.

Music Therapy and Addiction Treatment
2021
Type of reference
General information
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 substance abuse recovery. This page provides information on potential outcomes of music therapy, contraindications for music therapy, the clinical process, research areas, and a client testimonial.

Music Therapy and Dementia Care: Older Adults Living with Memory Disorders
2021
Type of reference
General information
Author
J. Geiger, et al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
American Music Therapy Association
Country
United States (USA)

This fact sheet explains the benefits of music therapy for older adults with memory disorders including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. It also describes the clinical processes and neurological impact of music therapy, and the importance of working with a professional music therapist. 

See an example of a music therapy session in action