You may be surprised to learn about the effective role of music in Psychotherapy but an increasing amount of research is beginning to show that the creation, performance and appreciation of music can be a valuable tool for developing a relationship between a therapist and their patient.

The main goal of psychotherapy is to create a safe and encouraging environment where individuals can work through the issues or challenges which confront them. Music therapy, which can include dance, composition or even an environment where people can listen to and appreciate music, is a great way of establishing a common ground where the therapist and patient can meet.

Issues that are brought up during psychotherapy sessions may be extremely serious. Patients may be dealing with issues such as abuse or trauma, or may be trying to deal with significant cognitive or physical challenges. Finding a way that a patient can express themselves freely while feeling safe and supportive is critical.

Studies have shown that music can have a huge impact on the mental and emotional well being of individuals. A qualified music therapist has the professional tools to meet with patients and evaluate their needs. Then, a customized therapeutic program is designed.

Sometimes, the benefits can be extremely surprising. A randomized study conducted in London, UK involved schizophrenics undergoing inpatient treatment for their disorder. This study, conducted by Doctor Michael J. Crawford and other colleagues found that after treatment using music therapy in addition to other forms of treatment, people suffering from Schizophrenia actually experienced improvements. They were assessed in terms of mental health, global functioning and satisfaction with the level of care they were receiving.

Music therapy can take many different forms. In some cases, patients and therapists may work together to create a piece of music by singing or playing instruments. In other cases, patients may have been encouraged to move to the music which can be very freeing to some individuals who may be dealing with physical disabilities. Singing can be a valuable tool in treating patients with dementia or other memory-related issues. It has been proven that singing uses different areas of the brain than speaking does. In some patients who may be dealing with a severe speech impediment such as a stutter, singing may be a more effective way for them to communicate for this very reason.

Patients who are recovering from a stroke have also found that music therapy can help them in many different ways. Music itself can help lower blood pressure, pulse rate and respiration rate and can bring about a relaxed state in many people. Treatment methods that involve movement to music can help a person with physical impairment improve their physical strength and range of motion. As well, music therapy sessions can help stroke sufferers form new interpersonal relationships and can induce a more positive mental state in many patients.

 Although music therapy may not be of help to everyone, it has been proven that patients who suffer a range of conditions including acute psychosis, stroke, dementia and other challenges may be able to relate more quickly and gain more value from their therapy than those undergoing traditional forms of psychotherapy alone.