Music Therapy Resources

By: Audrey Weatherstone 

What is music therapy?

Music therapy is the evidence-based use of music to achieve non-musical goals. It’s a creative approach to wellness and a form of non-verbal self-expression that supports interaction, confidence, and self-esteem.

Music can be adapted to support cognitive, speech and language, and sensorimotor goals as well as provide emotional and social support.

Who can benefit?

Music therapy can support individuals with different diagnoses and conditions, including, but not limited to:

Why music therapy?

Music is stored in all areas of our brains. When non-musical brain functions are lost due to an illness or injury, they can often be accessed when paired with music. For example, many people with aphasia (inability to speak) can still sing!

Additionally, music has been shown to release dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins – all chemicals that make us feel good!

Music therapy FAQs:

Q: Do I need to have musical experience to participate?

A: No, you do not need to be a musician to participate in music therapy! Music therapy interventions are designed to be errorless and adapted to each individuals’ strengths and needs.

Q: Can I do music therapy by myself?

A: There are many ways to engage in music independently that have therapeutic value; however, music therapy must be facilitated by a certified professional.

Q: Is music therapy covered by insurance?

A: Unfortunately, music therapy is not covered by most insurance companies at this time. Check out the resources below that offer free or sliding-scale options.

In-Person Outpatient Music Therapy Resources

Richmond

The Center for Creative Healing

  • Group and individual music therapy, art therapy, counseling, and music lessons for all ages and diagnoses.
  • Sessions are held at the Center for Creative Healing’s clinics (located in Glen Allen and North Chesterfield), or therapists can travel to facilities.

Richmond Area Music Therapy Network (RAMTN)

  • Network of all music therapists in the greater Richmond area.
  • Contact RAMTN at richmondmtnetwork@gmail.com and they will assist you in finding a therapist that meets your needs.

Roanoke

Anderson Music Therapy Services

  • Group and individual music therapy and music lessons for all ages and diagnoses.
  • FREE TBI and SCI services for patients and caregivers.

Newport News

Tidewater Music Therapy

  • Group and individual music therapy services and music lessons for all ages and diagnoses.
  • Sessions are held at the Tidewater Clinic (located in Yorktown) or therapists can travel to your home or facility.

Virtual Music Therapy Resources

Anderson Music Therapy Services

  • Virtual individual and group music therapy and music lessons for all ages and diagnoses.
  • FREE services for individuals with TBI or SCI as well as caregivers.
  • All therapists are trained in Neurologic Music Therapy.

MedRhythms

  • A neuro-rehab company offering all individual virtual neurologic music therapy services.
  • Highly recommended for stroke and brain injury rehab!

Meera Rani Creative Wellness

  • Virtual music therapy services specializing in therapeutic voice lessons, songwriting, and group circle singing events.
  • Services are offered on a sliding scale.

CurePSP

  • FREE monthly virtual music therapy group specifically for Parkinson’s and atypical Parkinson’s, including MSA, PSP, and CBD.
  • Offers a variety of resources and support groups for caregivers.

Sheltering Arms Institute offers music therapy for individuals currently admitted to our inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Check out the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) and Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) websites for more information, resources, and to find a music therapist near you.

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Connected Pain: How Your Neck May Be Causing Your Headaches

If you have ever dealt with nagging neck pain, you are far from alone. In fact, research shows that roughly half of us will experience a significant episode of neck pain at some point in our lives. Whether it stems from a sudden whiplash injury, age-related changes like arthritis, a pinched nerve, or simply the daily muscle strain of looking down at our phones or computer screens, neck pain is incredibly disruptive. It can present as a dull ache or a sharp, catching pain, and it often robs you of your ability to turn your head comfortably. But there is another common symptom of neck stiffness that surprises many people: headaches.

Occupational Therapy vs. Physical Therapy: What’s the Difference?

Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT) are distinct, separate professions, each requiring its own specialized education, licensing, and expertise. Because both fields share the ultimate goal of improving a patient’s independence and quality of life, their roles can sometimes seem to overlap.

Aphasia

Aphasia and the Role of the Speech-Language Pathologist

Aphasia (pronounced uh-FEY-zhuh) is the medical term used to describe difficulty with the production and comprehension of language. This can occur after a stroke or other injury to the brain. In addition to speaking, aphasia can also affect listening, reading, and writing. Individuals with aphasia may experience trouble finding the right words and producing intact sentences, which can impact their ability to express themselves as well as having trouble understanding what others are saying to them. In the most severe cases, a person with aphasia may be non-verbal, meaning they are not able to speak at all.

Reframing Your Outlook on Aging

May is Older Americans Month—a time dedicated to encouraging older adults to take an active role in their well-being through prevention, wellness, and self-management. Yet despite these empowering goals, aging is still often framed negatively in our society. By shifting how we think about getting older, and about ability more broadly, we can create a more positive, inclusive experience for everyone.

Simple Tips to Stay Active

Staying active doesn’t have to mean long workouts or a packed gym schedule. For most people, it’s really about finding simple ways to move more throughout the day. Those small choices—done consistently—can add up to real benefits for your energy, mood, and overall health.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.

Add Your Heading Text Here