Express yourself
BY RONDA ADDY

Ancient Greek philosophers used it as therapy as did early Native Americans. Disabled soldiers in VA hospitals benefited from it during WWI. The first degrees were issued in it in the 1940s and the first association was created for it in 1950. What could it be? Why it's music therapy, of course.

Music therapy is considered one of the most expressive, creative arts therapies, along with art, dance, drama and poetry therapies. Music therapy can be used to benefit all ages in all types of settings, including hospices, nursing homes, psychiatric and medical hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers, and special education programs and schools. It can improve attention span, coping skills and reality-based thinking, memory, motor coordination, speech and communication, walking skills and the bond between newborns and mothers. It can decrease pain and anxiety and adjust mood.

Music therapists must be both a therapist and a musician. Because no two patients are alike, they must be well versed in all types of music and know how to play the piano and guitar. They must be familiar with songwriting, conducting, music improvisation and music theory. In order to become certified, individuals must complete an approved college music therapy curricula as well as an internship and take the national examination offered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. Upon passing, individuals will be an MTBC (music therapist-board certified).

When looking for a music therapist, you should ask for recommendations from your doctor or local hospital. You might also want to check with friends and family. If you are already working with a mental health professional, you might want to ask them if they have a music therapist they work with, so the two can coordinate your treatment. Interview several therapists and look for one with experience dealing with problems like yours. Select the therapist you feel most comfortable with and make sure they are covered under your insurance.

During your initial meeting with your chosen therapist, they will discuss what symptoms you are suffering from and what you hope to gain from your treatment. They will also assess your physical health, cognitive skills, social functioning, emotional wellbeing and communication abilities as they relate to music. Taking all this into account, they will come up with an appropriate treatment program. They will also work with you to select the music to be used in your sessions according to your tastes and needs.

You do not need to have any musical background in order to undergo music therapy. Most sessions involve listening to music, analyzing lyrics, and using rhythmic movement and improvisation. You may also have to play music and compose songs from time to time.

Although beneficial, music therapy is not for everyone. Some people are agitated by or have no response to it at all. Before you begin your sessions with a music therapist, it is good idea to check with your physician so they can rule out any underlying medical problems that may be responsible for your symptoms.