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.

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