The Power of Music Therapy: A Neuroaffirming Approach

Music therapy is a powerful tool for children and adults with neurodivergent diagnoses. As a board-certified music therapist with 14 years of experience, I've seen firsthand how music can be used to address non-musical goals in various areas such as sensory processing, communication, motor skills, cognitive development, and emotional regulation. But what exactly is music therapy, and how can it help?

What is Music Therapy?

At its core, music therapy uses music as a means to achieve therapeutic goals. It's not just about listening to music; it's about actively engaging with it in ways that help individuals work through challenges. To become a board-certified music therapist, a professional must complete a specialized degree, undergo an internship, pass a certification exam, and maintain ongoing education. This ensures that the therapist has the expertise to tailor sessions effectively to the individual's needs.

Common Misunderstandings

Despite its growing popularity, there are several misconceptions about music therapy:

• It's not interactive: Many people think music therapy is simply about listening to music. While listening can be part of the process, therapy is highly interactive and client-driven. For example, some clients may engage in live music-making, play instruments, or create their own songs.

• It only uses one type of music: Contrary to the belief that music therapy is all about classical tunes, therapists use a wide range of music genres—pop, rock, country, and even children’s songs like Baby Shark—depending on the client’s preferences. This ensures that the therapy is tailored to the individual and helps build trust and connection.
  

A Typical Session

A music therapy session typically starts with a "hello" song or activity, but this can be adjusted if a client has anxiety about starting that way. After the greeting, the session may include a variety of interventions like:

• Playing instruments or using technology (like GarageBand)

• Writing or composing songs

• Lyric analysis (discussing songs' meaning)

• Musical games

The session wraps up with a "goodbye" song, providing closure.

Real Success Stories

While it’s important to understand that music therapy doesn’t work overnight, there are many success stories that demonstrate its effectiveness. One of my clients struggled with social skills and understanding emotions. Through music therapy, he learned to associate different emotions with musical improvisation, improving his social interactions and ability to make friends. A few months later, he proudly shared, "I have a friend!" It was one of the best days of my career!

Is Music Therapy Right for Your Child?

Music therapy offers a personalized, client-driven approach to improving various skills, but it's not a quick fix. It requires patience and consistency, and the process may take time. If you’re unsure whether music therapy might be right for your child, consider scheduling a consultation with a board-certified music therapist. Even if you're not based in Idaho, many therapists are available globally, and a consultation can help you find the right fit.

For more information on music therapy, listen to episode 92 of the Every Brain is Different podcast.