Music therapy as Psychotherapy

However, it has been researched well and proven that music has medicinal effects on the human psyche. To counteract this phenomenon, in my own experience, I have found that music can be seen as a song you play on the radio or a concert you go to for entertainment. But, have you noticed that you may have a certain song that rings in your mind when you have a certain feeling? For example, when you feel happy, you may sing the chorus of a specific song or when you fall in love you may hear bells ringing or tolling, depending on what your situation is (whoops!).

Harp therapy works well in many situations, but when it is implemented in palliative care for instance, the therapist may need to play very softly so as to respect the situation. The person in the room may be alone, in which case, the music may be honed towards the feeling in the room. The client may be non verbal, so it is up to the therapist to see what other responses are presenting, such as a change in breathing rhythm or eyes opening or a clenched hand relaxing or reaching out. Small gestures can show whether the music is what is needed at the time.

When the family is in the room and there is anxiety about the next phase of illness or even death, it may be helpful to ask a few questions and then even give a guided meditation to help the family relax with their loved one.

“Okay”, I hear you say, “but what happens in a psychotherapy session then?”

This is where is can become interesting, because the client (you) may need to ‘hear their own voice’, they may feel as if nobody listens to them and they have no power. When this happens, I might take the harp and play something to the client and help them tell me what they think of that music. I might even mess up the song so that there is room for feedback. Then we could discuss how the client felt when thy gave the feedback and what happened in their body… this is a process and can go on for a while if the client is used to dissociating in difficult situations.

We may at some point use humming or even dancing to music or singing a song together. The great thing about this is that no one but the two of us heard the singing/ noise.

“What are the outcomes of this kind of therapy?” I hear you ask.

You may be able to experience a stronger feeling of being heard or even being seen. Your self esteem and even self worth may improve. Some clients experience their anxiety dissipate and depression lifting. Sometimes the change is quick and depending on the external factors such as critical others, it may be that reinforcing sessions may be necessary.

Here and there, I have even had clients who wanted to learn to be therapists or just play the harp or sing or play the piano or some other instrument. These connections can be made when this is the right solution for you.