Music Therapy

Music therapy is a well-established healing modality with years of proven results in the therapeutic community. It is highly beneficial in reducing stress, anxiety, improving mood, and encouraging self-expression. In practice, clients will listen to music, sing, or play instruments as a means of relaxation and expression during complex treatment. In addition to its soothing properties, clients who engage with music during therapy will increase their memory processing, find ease in regulating their emotions, and enjoy a positive distraction when appropriate. These assets are essential, particularly with mental health struggles and addiction recovery.

What Is a Music Therapist?

A music therapist assesses a client’s emotional and social functioning and cognitive behavior using various types of musical expression. A music therapist is educated in music history, foundational instruments, and how they can moderate behavior and open personal expression. These particular therapists find particular success with people suffering from complex mental health and addiction struggles, including military service members and veterans, those with autism, individuals suffering from chronic pain and illness, and those with substance use disorders.

Music Therapy and Mental Health

Music is a profound support in relieving mental health concerns. It provides a positive distraction while establishing a foundation where past trauma and its associated triggers can be addressed safely. Music has been known to be successful in treating depression. However, depending on the type of music, it can either regulate emotion or cause a person to act irrationally, hence the need for a trauma-informed music therapist. There are many positive effects of music therapy, including:

  • Reduced anxiety
  • Coping skills 
  • Pain management 
  • Increased motivation
  • Lowered blood pressure
  • Self-reflection
  • Stress management
  • Enhanced communication skills 
  • Regulated sleeping patterns

Music therapy opens the minds of patients both emotionally and spiritually. It can be done individually but is frequently used to great success in a group setting. Music therapy encourages patients to be active. They will discuss lyrics, sing, dance, play instruments, and create music.

Music Therapy Programs at Sunshine Care Centers

At Sunshine Care Centers, we offer music therapy and other treatment modalities to support our patients in finding hope and joy during treatment for mental health or addiction. We provide methods that support the recovery process, from cognitive-behavioral therapy to dialectical behavioral therapy, and more. Our team of experts provides a safe and secure environment for those ready to take ownership of their lives once more.

Contact a member of our team to get started on your treatment plan today!