Kenneth E. Bruscia, a professor of Music Therapy at Temple University, describes music therapy as a “reflective process wherein the therapist helps the client to optimize the client’s health, using various facets of music experience and the relationships formed through them as the impetus for change.”
Music therapy---
Is evidence-based!
Accomplishes individualized goals
In an allied health profession
Addresses physical goals
Is used by all ages
Uses patient-preferred music
Is facilitated by a board-certified music therapist
Addresses emotional goals
Is used in many settings
And SO much more!
Music Therapy is all about using music to make real, positive changes in people’s lives. It has this incredible ability to reach parts of the brain that other therapies sometimes can’t. Whether it’s helping someone walk again, speak more clearly, reconnect with their emotions and memories, or connect with humanistic practice. I’m passionate about using music to support people on their path to recovery and improve their overall quality of life, tailoring each session to their individual needs and goals. Ultimately, it’s about helping them heal, grow, and thrive through the power of music.
Fall, 2023 (Telehealth)
Population: Individual setting: 16-year-old with autism and speech apraxia.
Developed telehealth skills, and gained knowledge on the use of technology in sessions.
Fall, 2024 (Telehealth)
Population: Mixed setting; 6-year-old blind child, and 8-year-old with autism spectrum disorder.
Attained IEP experience, data-collecting skills, and accessibility resources.
Fall, 2024 (In-person)
Population: In-patient adults in mental health crises.
Lead music therapy sessions to support patients with psychiatric disorders, enhancing emotional expression, coping skills, and social engagement.
Spring, 2025 (In-person)
Population: Older adults with age-related disabilities.
Created detailed session plans, and developed interpersonal skills by making social connections.
A song I wrote for class! The challenge was to improvise a song that describes emotions without words. The song tells a story about a duck going through a rollercoaster of emotions, and how he expresses them with sound. It also heavily encourages client participation!
Music therapy treating withdrawal symptoms
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35156503/