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

Clinical research scientist

Five Reasons to Participate in Research

During my participation in a clinical trial, I was able to learn first-hand about the process surrounding medical discoveries. I also gained an understanding of how to advocate for my health and learned to ask more questions about the risks involved in different medical treatments. Participation in research was incredibly beneficial to me personally. To help you learn more about research participation, we’ve compiled a list of 5 reasons to participate in research.

How to Measure Exercise Intensity

Target heart rate (HR) is a great way to measure exercise intensity to get the most out of your workout. For most people, it provides an accurate way to measure the safety of an activity in relation to the percentage of your maximum heart rate. However, for some people, because of several medications that regulate HR (such beta blockers) or the availability to acquire a device that monitors HR, using HR alone to measure exercise intensity can be challenging.

How to Maximize Physical Therapy Visits from Insurance

As a new year begins, so do new health insurance deductibles and benefits. It’s important to be aware of your healthcare expenses to plan for the year ahead. For those seeking physical rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, it’s important to remember that health insurance may not cover unlimited sessions. Understanding how to make the most of your visits covered by insurance is key to maximizing your benefits. Read on to learn how you can get the most out of your therapy visits while extending the time spent on your recovery to achieve your goals.

Tips To Cure Winter Boredom

It’s common to feel bored during the winter months when you’re spending more time indoors and routines shift. However, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged and have fun at home. From boosting mental sharpness to connecting with others, these activities can help turn boredom into an opportunity for growth and enjoyment.

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