Music Therapy Approach I Decided Essay

There are many different views and approaches used in therapy and in society in general. These views include: cognitive, behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, biological, and humanistic (Comer, 2014). Some of the approaches used include the Orff approach, Dalcroze approach, Kodaly approach, Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, and Nordoff-Robbins approach (Darrow, 2008). Darrow explained the different philosophies, populations, and applications of these diverse approaches. In music therapy, the theory that is practiced by a music therapist will determine the types of approaches and terms used and how they use them. The approaches used will also affect how they interact with clients. The different approaches can elicit very different interactions with clients (Darrow). There are three main theories used in therapy. These three main theories are known as psychodynamic, behavioral, and humanistic. The psychodynamic view is based on repressed thoughts and feelings, the behavioral view is based on behaviors, and the humanistic view is based on self-actualization (Comer, 2014). Each of these views will be further explored as I piece together my own personal philosophy and views on each main theory.

Music therapy is not a person with Alzheimer’s listening to his or her favorite songs on an iPod with headphones; however, music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music to improve physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. Music therapy is only advocated in three states: North Dakota, Nevada, and Georgia. Because not many understand the value of music therapy, it is not advocated in many other states. The goals and accomplishments of music therapy should be acknowledged; people will then realize that music therapy really works. Music therapy should be advocated throughout the states because it is effective, and it improves the lives of people in emotional and physical pain.

As a psychology student with an extensive background in Fine Arts, I bring a unique perspective to the mental health field. My interest in psychology began with the curiosity regarding the relationship between art and mental health. South Korea, my birthplace, has some of the longest working hours of any country. While working in Korea, I witnessed the results of work-related stress such as depressive mood and anxiety. However, there existed stigma related to mental disorders due to cultural expectations. Rather than visiting professionals in the mental health industry, many ascribed mental instabilities to their lack of willpower. This phenomenon spurred me to consider artistic activities in dealing mental distress. Eventually, I was motivated to study Psychology at Ryerson University; I hope to keep my path toward Art Therapy at Concordia University.

     Today many people seek professional therapy or counseling for a limited amount of time in order to deal with different life crises. Others seek professional help for the majority of their lives in order to deal with a psychological disorder. After reading this chapter on Therapy, I learned that this was not always the case, and that the way our society views therapy, and the meaning of therapy, has changed dramatically of the years. This chapter not only explains the evolution of therapy, it explores the different therapeutic approaches.

Music can change mood, have stimulant or sedative effects, and after physiologic process such as heart rate and breathing.

I have this theory that when it comes to music there is an unseen power which transforms. In in my life I have felt the influence of this power but it wasn't until the other day that I witnessed this power in action. It was through a procedure called Music Therapy where the method of treatment involves the patient listening to music. The element of music has a history of an intuitive connection that has psychologically been beneficial. Music therapy bands together the concept of music, mental health, psychological, and physiological benefits. With more examinations to estimate the advantages for this procedure more debate arises. Many are eager to

Music is composed of sounds intertwined with melody and rhythm that can have powerful effects on a person. It can help people focus on tasks or calm the mind. Research has shown that music has beneficial effects on the mind, body, and health of a person. A journal article by Rastogi, Solanki, and Zafar (2013) refers, on the contrary, to:

Studies have been conducted to show the importance of relationships in relation to a patient’s progress during the course of therapy. Shown in the article written by Huber, Zimmerman, and Klug, there are many types of therapies including cognitive behavioural therapy, psychotherapy, family therapy, couples and group therapy, and behavioural therapy. The support of family and friends have shown a huge impact on the progress of patients. Being in a male dominated profession such as the military can also affect the likelihood of the patient going through a therapy session. Genders and race can also influence the outcome of

I believe that the art of psychotherapy is more important than empirically validated treatments (EVT). I feel that the art of psychotherapy lies in the common factors, which include the therapeutic relationship, client and therapist factors (e.g., personality), helping clients deal with problems, and hope or expectancy factors (Reisner, 2005). Although I do believe that empirically validated treatments may enhance the therapeutic process, the treatments themselves are by no means the most important or fundamental aspects of therapy. There appears, at least to me, to be much more of an art involved in developing the relationship with the client and understanding the client’s perspective. It takes art and skill of a therapist to examine,

Many people feel calm when they are completely focused and ignoring the world around them. This feeling is similar to how people feel listening or playing music. According to Marcus Weeks, author of Heads Up Psychology, “Musicians can be so absorbed in their music that they cut themselves off from the world around them, achieving an intense feeling of happiness.” Thus why music therapy was created, to help individuals who are struggling either emotionally or physically heal through the power of music. However, while it is very important, music therapy is a career that can be difficult to obtain.

There are many studies that show how music therapy helps people with mood disorders. People with depression can benefit from music therapy because through music therapy they can lessen the symptoms of depression. In the studies and cases that will be mentioned we can see that music therapy is effective through methods like group therapy. It is shown that people with depression that go through music therapy are affected in a positive way.

Most forms of therapy are centered on verbal communication. Art therapy, however, breaks that mold and introduces a more creative means of both communicating ideas and learning to grow. The American Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as:

Music therapy, a clinical use of music interventions to accomplish therapeutic goals, involves a broad range of activities including playing an instrument, singing, or listening to music. Similar to occupational and physical therapy, this expressive arts therapy remedies psychological conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or hypertension to maintain the well-being of an individual. Likewise, music has been a therapeutic tool that has shown positive effects to parts of the brain including regions involved in emotion, sensation, movement, and cognition. Although music therapy is a somewhat new-found treatment, it is used prominently today. Administered by a trained therapist, this type of therapy is used in correctional facilities, nursing homes, hospices, and special education schools.

Usually, when one considers what they can do to fight off a cold, relieve pain, or alleviate mental illness, the first things that comes to mind may be to take over-the-counter drugs or prescribed medications. However, the cure to these and many other infirmities may be found within your own ipod. Music, in its many forms, can and should be used as a healing instrument. While it may not completely alleviate the need for drugs, it's possible that music therapy could accompany medical drug use in order to lessen the amount of potentially harmful medications often consumed by patients.

Alternative methods of healing have been utilized by non-western medicine for generations. The use of acupuncture to heal everything from seasickness to muscle soreness is well documented and widely used. Physical therapy is often a precursor to surgery and many times will prevent the need to undergo a more invasive procedure. A lesser-known form of alternative healing but becoming more popular is music therapy. In the late 18th century, scientists began to investigate the effects of music on the human body; however, using music as a healing medium dates back to ancient times. There are many forms and techniques of music therapy that aid a variety of disabilities having to do with communication, behavioral issues, the autism spectrum,