Musical therapy? What is that?

        I can't believe my first week is already over! I've seen so many amazing things, and met some precious, precious people. It's been an interesting week, getting settled and learning my way around the hospital. I'm hoping soon I'll be able to find my way from point A to point B without getting lost! Salem VAMC is a big place; most of the buildings were finished in the 1930's, and the historic architecture is both interesting and confusing. 

After spending an entire week immersed in full-time music therapy, I've been revisiting the question I've heard a hundred times before: What is music therapy? Our field is so difficult to define. Music therapy is a recreation, an emotional support, a counseling session, a physical activity, a cognitive exercise, and an artistic expression. Recent medical research demonstrates the profound impact that active engagement in music has on the brain. For a quick summary of music's effects on the brain, check out this video. 

Science is validating techniques which music therapists have used for years. The neurological and physical impact of music on the human body is fascinating. However, music therapy is more than just a neurological tool to use; music therapy involves an intangible element that creates a bond between the therapist and patient. This intangible quality makes it almost impossible to define; music therapy is better experienced than explained. But while I may be no better at explaining what music therapy IS, this week has shown me in a profound way what music therapy DOES. So what does music therapy do?

        Music therapy can:

• Decrease tremors from Parkinson's disease using rhythm, even without medication
• Alleviate a developmental stutter through melodic intonations
• Teach a person how to walk after paralysis following exposure to a neurotoxin
• Improve cognitive function and attention after brain damage due to massive stroke
• Improve gross and fine motor coordination following a stroke
• Give spiritual support to an individual with terminal cancer
• Provide emotional support to individuals coping with depression and PTSD 
• Improve vocal flexibility, speaking quality, and breath support for an individual with multiple sclerosis
• Provide social interaction and cognitive stimulation for individuals hospitalized for long-term care
• Bring smiles to the palliative care unit
• Provide support for family members caring for a terminally-ill loved one
• Give a distraction from chronic or acute pain
• Regulate and increase breath control
• Motivate and reward people for meeting therapeutic goals
• Create bonds and bring joy