What is Music Therapy?
“Music therapy is a research-based practice and
profession in which music is used to actively support
people as they strive to improve their health,
functioning and wellbeing.
Music therapy is the intentional use of music by a
university-trained professional who is registered with
the Australian Music Therapy Association Inc.
Registered music therapists draw on an extensive
body of research and are bound by a code of ethics
that informs their practice.
Music therapists incorporate a range of music making
methods within and through a therapeutic relationship.
Music therapy is different from music education and
entertainment as it focuses on health, functioning and
wellbeing.
Music therapists are committed to supporting people
of any age and ability regardless of musical skill,
culture or background.”
- AUSTRALIAN MUSIC THERAPY ASSOCIATION
(AMTA)
Music Therapy Standards of
Practice:
1. Referral
2. Assessment
3. Planning
4. Implementation
5. Evaluation
6. Documentation
7. Termination (Closure)
Referral to Music Therapy
Music therapists apply targeted musical interventions
(in individual or group sessions) to address a range of
cognitive, physical, and socio-emotional goals
determined through assessment.
Areas of care that can benefit from a referral to Music
Therapy include:
• Palliative care
• Oncology
• Disability
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Special education
• Early childhood intervention
• Aged care
• Rehabilitation
• Mental health
• Neo-natal care
• Pediatrics
Music therapists strive to be adaptable by applying
eclectic, research-based approaches and practices
centered around the needs of the client, while working
as part of an interdisciplinary team to devise the
greatest level of care.
Engaging with music has been proven to activate
areas of the brain responsible for memory, emotional
response, physiological response, sensory relay,
decision-making, social awareness, and reward.
Laura Kennedy-Waters - Bmus, MaMTs
MUSIC THERAPY
