Neurosong's Definition

Music therapy is a professional healthcare discipline that applies scientifically-validated music techniques and interventions to non-musical clinical treatment goals. Research supports that, when applied by a trained practitioner, these music techniques can facilitate cognitive, sensorimotor, emotional, communicative, and psychosocial therapeutic changes. Board-certified music therapists are trained as musicians, therapists, and scientists according to national standards established by the American Music Therapy Association.

American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) Definition

Music Therapy is an established healthcare profession that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals of all ages.  Music therapy improves the quality of life for persons who are well and meets the needs of children and adults with disabilities or illnesses.  Music therapy interventions can be designed to:

• promote wellness
• manage stress
• alleviate pain
• express feelings
• enhance memory
• improve communication
• promote physical rehabilitation.

Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness in a wide variety of healthcare and educational settings.

Neurologic Music Therapy Defined

According to Dr. Michael Thaut (2000), Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) is the therapeutic application of music to cognitive, sensory, and motor dysfunction due to neurologic disease. NMT is based on a neuroscience model of music perception and production and an understanding of the influence of music on non-musical brain and behavior functions.

Neurologic Music Therapy uses a research-based system of standardized clinical techniques used for:

• Sensorimotor Training
• Speech and Language Training
• Cognition Training
  

NMT focuses on rehabilitative goals, developmental goals, and adaptive goals.

References

American Music Therapy Association, www.musictherapy.org

Thaut, M.H. (2000). A Scientific Model of Music Therapy and Medicine. San Antonio: MRI.

Thaut, M.H. (2005). Rhythm, Music, and the Brain: Scientific Foundations and Clinical Applications. New York: Routledge.