Psychotherapy And Music
Go to: Previous Article Next Article
The effective role of music in psychotherapy has been studied for years. In recent years, the studies have increased as more results of proven the hypothesis that the effective use of music can be an invaluable tool in developing and enhancing the therapist/patient relationship. The ability to use both verbal and non-verbal elements in music such as performance art, creation, and appreciation adds an additional level of effective communicative models available in therapy.
Providing the encouraging and safe environment that is required by patients to begin addressing challenges and issues is one of the main goals of psychotherapy. In many cases, the inclusion of music therapy as a means to enhance and empower the patient to creatively and proactively address their issues through composition, dance, and appreciation increases the communication and relationship of the therapist and patient by providing a common means of communicating thoughts and feelings that may be difficult for the patient to express in a formal verbal setting.
The diversity of patients that seek the assistance of a psychotherapy require flexibility and adaptability from the therapist who must be able to engender the safe and supportive environment that will allow the patient to discuss their abuse, trauma, physical, or cognitive challenges effectively.
Music has played an integral role in the lives of mankind throughout history. When a psychotherapist and music therapist work together to customize and design an effective therapeutic program, studies have shown a significant impact on the mental and emotional well being and growth of patients.
Sometimes, the benefits can be extremely surprising. A randomized study conducted in London, UK involved schizophrenics undergoing inpatient treatment for their disorder. This study, conducted by Doctor Michael J. Crawford and other colleagues found that after treatment using music therapy in addition to other forms of treatment, people suffering from Schizophrenia actually experienced improvements. They were assessed in terms of mental health, global functioning and satisfaction with the level of care they were receiving.
There are many ways that the inclusion of music can be used in an effective therapeutic treatment program. Patients and therapists may work together to compose and create music or play instruments. Or, patients may be encouraged to begin a series of experiments involving different types of music, instruments, or composition styles. Patients who are physically challenged are much more successful in regaining function and range of motion in affected limbs when they are relaxed and introduced to different modes of creative dance. Studies have shown that dementia patients and those with speech and neural disorders are able to overcome many of their challenges through the rhythmic use of melodies and music.
During studies of music on physiology it has been shown that blood pressure, pulse rate, and respiration rate can be lowered through the use of music in teaching relaxation and bio-feedback techniques. Increasing range of motion and physical strength is more easily accomplished when the subconscious mind of the patient can focus on music rather than on the task at hand. In addition, the use of group musical activities has shown that individuals with difficulty interacting with peers are much more relaxed and able to interact and connect more effectively.
Although music therapy may not be of help to everyone, it has been proven that patients who suffer a range of conditions including acute psychosis, stroke, dementia and other challenges may be able to relate more quickly and gain more value from their therapy than those undergoing traditional forms of psychotherapy alone.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
- Credit Cards A big selection of Cards in all flavors: Bad Credit Cards, Secured Cards, Prepaid Cards, Credit Cards for Canada, Low Interest Cards, etc -
Word Count: 594
Reduce Your Debts Without Bankruptcy. See How Much You Can Save. Free Debt Analysis
