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Music, the common language of humanity for many centuries, touches our emotions, transports us back to the past, or finds a place in our dreams. It creates a backdrop in our lives. But did you know that music is also used as a therapeutic method?

Music, which plays an important role in meeting people's psychological, physical, social and mental needs, can also be used to manage various ailments. Moreover, you don't need musical talent to receive music therapy. What is music therapy, how is it applied and what are its benefits? Let's explore the answers to all these questions together.

What is Music Therapy? How is it Applied?

Music therapy is a therapeutic method that utilizes musical elements such as sound, rhythm and harmony to reduce an individual's stress and improve their quality of life. Music therapy is administered by music therapists.

Before therapy, music therapists examine the individual's needs, experiences and musical preferences and implement a personalized procedure. The number of sessions, length of sessions and what you will do during therapy vary depending on your goals and personal needs. In music therapy, you might sing, listen to music and talk about its meaning, play an instrument, or transform your feelings into lyrics and melodies. 

Everyone can participate in music therapy, whether child, teenager, adult, or elderly. A complementary therapy method, music therapy is used in addition to a treatment plan. 

Methods of Music Therapy

Different methods are used in music therapy. Common methods include:

Composition Method: In this method, the individual creates their own music without adhering to a specific musical pattern. The patient progresses in a planned manner with the therapist's support. This prepared music can then be recorded or played live to the patient's chosen audience. The goal is to find an alternative way for the patient to express their feelings.

Re-creation Method: In this method, the patient chooses a song with the therapist and sings along with it, either vocally or on a musical instrument. This method encourages the patient to actively participate, and the use of musical instruments contributes to the development of fine and gross motor skills. It can also increase body awareness.

Improvisation Method: This method involves the patient improvising music by singing, playing instruments and keeping rhythm with their hands and feet. It plays an effective role in strengthening the patient's communication skills. The therapist can assess the patient's mood based on the music that they create.

Receptive Method: In this method, the patient acts as a passive listener. In this therapy method, the patient sits quietly and listens to the music of their choice. During this time, the patient might choose to express their feelings through song lyrics, dance movements, or another form of art to find relief. This method is often used to promote relaxation, strengthen memory and enhance auditory perception.

Benefits of Music Therapy 

It's safe to say that listening to and engaging in music has benefits in daily life or is beneficial for a person. So, what are the benefits of music therapy?

The benefits of music therapy can be listed as follows:

• It helps reduce stress levels by calming the individual.
• It has properties that alleviate the negative effects of anxiety and depression.
• It strengthens communication skills.
• It improves sleep quality. 
• It is effective in increasing self-awareness.
• It strengthens memory. 
• It improves mood. 
• It is effective in developing physical coordination, motor skills and movement abilities. 
• It improves problem-solving skills. 
• It supports the development of speech and language skills. 
• It helps people recognize, understand and regulate emotions. 
• It improves quality of life.

Although music therapy is not used directly as a treatment method for health problems, it can be used as part of a treatment plan. Some health problems that can benefit from the effects of music therapy include:

• Dementia,
• Anxiety,
• Depression,
• Post-traumatic stress disorder,
• Diabetes,
• Heart disease.

Music therapy is an important tool for helping individuals cope with negative situations in a healthier way. The power of music to bring people together and heal can be beneficial for people of all ages.

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