Building Visibility and Value for Music Therapy

Abstract

Music therapy is a progressing field of inquiry and practice with wide application and proven benefits in varied clinical settings. Unfortunately, misunderstanding of creative therapies and general distrust of alternative non-medical interventions have deterred members of the general public as well as key stakeholders such as insurance companies, hospitals, schools, and clinics from embracing creative practices as a form of therapy. The research in this report starts with a short history, as well as an exploration of the mental, cognitive and physical benefits of music in various clinical settings. In the second half, management techniques and expansion of accessibility is explored while imagining what the music therapy field could look like in the future. In addition, discussion of industry barriers and recommendations will be of use to current therapists as well as those seeking entry to the profession of clinical music therapy.