Music Therapy
Music, with its seemingly endless ability to move us, presents a medium of expressing emotions when words fail us. Music therapy taps into this power to provide a space in which people can learn new ways to communicate, express themselves and improve their mental and emotional wellbeing.
Music therapy can enhance self-awareness and awareness of others, improve self-confidence and independence. Musical skill is not required, the music is often improvised based on the feeling of the present moment and the collaborative client-therapist relationship.
Who benefits from music therapy?
Music therapy can be extremely helpful for children or those with learning difficulties or special needs as it encourages and improves focus and attention. It is particularly helpful for people who struggle to communicate verbally.
Music therapy can play a significant role in improving the life of those with autism, as they can be soothed and learn new ways to communicate through music, and those with dementia, whose memories can be stirred and sense of isolation comforted by the naturally evocative power of music.
Music therapy can used to treat anxiety and depression; the fluid nature of music often has the ability to interrupt anxious or negative thought patterns. The sense of being immersed in music and the present moment can be very grounding and comforting.
Training as a music therapist
To become a music therapist in the UK, you need to:
Here are some things to consider when training to become a music therapist:
Entry requirements
You'll usually need a degree in music, but you might be accepted if you have a degree in education or psychology and a high level of music skill. You'll also need 1 or 2 years of relevant work experience.
Course length
Training is at Masters level and can take two or three years, depending on the course.
Institutions
Some institutions that offer approved courses include:
Relevant organisations
Last updated October 2024
What is play therapy?
What is art therapy?
"I was unsure what kind of therapy might be right for me and your matching service helped immensely. I was able to find somebody nearby who could see me extremely quickly. Using welldoing.org was one of the best things I've ever done!”
JJ, Warwickshire