An overview of well-known music therapy methods
Music therapy can use many different methods for its purpose. They can use quite a different approach, and also their results are more effective in various cases. Let’s have a look at the most researched names we can find in this field.
Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy: This approach focuses on improvisation and the creation of music in the moment. It was developed by Paul Nordoff and Clive Robbins.
Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy: This approach is based on the teachings of composer Carl Orff and emphasizes the use of percussion instruments and movement to help clients express themselves.
Guided Imagery and Music (GIM): This approach uses pre-recorded music to guide clients through a series of mental images and emotions. It was developed by Helen Bonny.
Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (BMGIM): This method is similar to GIM, but uses classical music exclusively.
Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT): This approach is based on the idea that music and rhythm can stimulate the brain and improve cognitive, motor, and communication skills in people with neurological disorders.
Analytical Music Therapy: This approach focuses on the client’s thoughts and feelings about music and how they relate to their life experiences.
Creative Music Therapy: This method encourages clients to create their own music as a form of expression and therapy.
Vocal Psychotherapy: This approach uses singing and vocalization to help clients explore and express their emotions.
Music and Imagery: This approach combines music listening with visualization techniques to help clients work through emotional and psychological issues.
Receptive Music Therapy: This approach involves listening to music and discussing the emotions and thoughts it evokes in the client.
Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy (NRMT)
Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy (NRMT) is an approach to music therapy that was developed by Paul Nordoff and Clive Robbins in the mid-20th century. It is based on the belief that everyone has the potential to respond to and make music, regardless of age, ability, or disability.
NRMT is a client-centered approach that emphasizes improvisation and the creation of music in the moment. The therapist and client work together to create music that is unique to the client’s needs and preferences. The therapist may use a variety of instruments, including voice, to help the client express themselves and work through emotional or psychological issues
The goal of NRMT is to help clients develop their communication, social, emotional, and physical skills through music. It can be used with people of all ages, including children, adults, and the elderly, and it has been used to help people with a wide range of issues, including autism, developmental disabilities, neurological disorders, mental health issues, and physical disabilities.
One of the unique features of NRMT is its emphasis on the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and client. The therapist acts as a co-creator of music with the client, and the music itself becomes a tool for communication and emotional expression. This collaborative process can help the client feel empowered and connected, and can lead to meaningful change and growth.
Overall, NRMT is a flexible and adaptable approach to music therapy that is grounded in the belief that music can be a powerful tool for healing and growth.
Sources:
- Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy: https://www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk/what-we-do/music-therapy/ This is the official website of the Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy organization. It provides an overview of the approach, its history, and its applications.
The Oxford Handbook of Music Therapy:https://oxfordmedicine.com/view/10.1093/med/9780198815438.001.0001/med-9780198815438 This book includes a chapter on Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy that provides a detailed overview of the approach, including its theoretical foundations, clinical techniques, and research support.
Music Therapy Handbook: https://www.musictherapy.org/assets/1/7/MT_Handbook_2006.pdf This handbook, published by the American Music Therapy Association, includes a chapter on Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy that provides an overview of the approach and its applications.
Creative Music Therapy: A Guide to Fostering Clinical Musicianship:https://books.google.com/books/about/Creative_Music_Therapy.html?id=tnqg3lANxpwC This book, written by Nordoff and Robbins themselves, provides a detailed description of the Nordoff-Robbins approach, including its philosophy, techniques, and case studies.
Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy
Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy is an approach to music therapy that is based on the teachings of German composer Carl Orff and his colleague Gunild Keetman. The approach is focused on the use of percussion instruments and movement to help clients express themselves and work through emotional and psychological issues.
Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy is a client-centered approach that emphasizes the importance of play and creativity in the therapeutic process. The therapist may use a variety of percussion instruments, such as drums, xylophones, and maracas, as well as other objects like scarves, balls, and hoops to engage the client in musical and physical play.
The therapist may also incorporate movement into the therapy session, using dance and other forms of body movement to help the client express themselves and work through emotions. Improvisation is a key component of Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy, and clients are encouraged to experiment with different sounds and rhythms to find their own unique expression.
One of the strengths of Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy is its ability to engage clients of all ages and abilities. It has been used successfully with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly, as well as with clients with developmental disabilities, mental health issues, and neurological disorders
Overall, Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy is a dynamic and flexible approach to music therapy that emphasizes the importance of creativity, play, and improvisation in the therapeutic process. By using percussion instruments and movement to engage clients, therapists can help them express themselves, develop their communication and social skills, and work through emotional and psychological issues in a supportive and engaging environment.
Sources
American Orff-Schulwerk Association: https://aosa.org/ This is the official website of the American Orff-Schulwerk Association. It provides information on the history of the approach, its application in music education, and its potential for use in music therapy.
Orff-Schulwerk: Applications for Music Therapy: https://www.proquest.com/docview/304567501?pq-origsite=gscholar&fromopenview=true This article by music therapist Kat Fulton provides an overview of Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy, including its history, techniques, and applications.
The Oxford Handbook of Music Therapy:https://oxfordmedicine.com/view/10.1093/med/9780198815438.001.0001/med-9780198815438 This book includes a chapter on Orff-Schulwerk Music Therapy that provides a detailed overview of the approach, including its theoretical foundations, clinical techniques, and research support.
Orff-Schulwerk: Music for Children and Music Therapy:https://books.google.com/books/about/Orff_Schulwerk.html?id=HfP-AwAAQBAJ This book, written by music therapist Diane Austin, provides a comprehensive overview of the Orff-Schulwerk approach, including its history, philosophy, and applications in music therapy.
Guided Imagery and Music (GIM)
Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) is a type of therapy that uses music and guided imagery to help individuals explore and address emotional, psychological, and spiritual issues. It was developed in the 1970s by Dr. Helen Bonny, a music therapist, and Dr. Stan Grof, a psychiatrist.
In GIM therapy, the client listens to music while a trained therapist guides them through a series of visualizations and imagery exercises. The music used in GIM is carefully selected to evoke specific emotional responses and to support the individual’s journey through different stages of the therapeutic process.
The imagery exercises in GIM may involve exploring inner landscapes, encountering archetypal figures, and working through unresolved emotional conflicts. The therapist provides a safe and supportive environment for the individual to engage with these experiences, and helps them to process and integrate the insights gained through the imagery exercises.
GIM has been used to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and spiritual exploration. It has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving mood, and increasing feelings of relaxation and well-being.
GIM is typically delivered in a series of sessions, with each session building upon the insights and experiences gained in previous sessions. It can be used as a standalone therapy or as a complement to other forms of psychotherapy. GIM is typically provided by trained professionals who have completed specialized training in the GIM method.
Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (BMGIM): This method is similar to GIM, but uses classical music exclusively.
Sources
Association for Music and Imagery: https://ami-bonnymethod.org/what-is-gim/
The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music: https://www.bonnyfoundation.org/guided-imagery-and-music
The British Association for Music Therapy: https://www.bamt.org/guided-imagery-and-music-gim/
Grof Transpersonal Training: https://www.grof-certification.com/guided-imagery-music/
American Music Therapy Association: https://www.musictherapy.org/assets/1/7/GIM_2019.pdf
Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT)
Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) is a research-based approach to music therapy that uses music and rhythm to support the brain’s neuroplasticity and promote functional changes in the brain. It is a specialized form of music therapy that is used to treat neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
NMT was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Michael Thaut, a music therapist and researcher, and is based on the idea that the brain responds to music in a unique way that can be used to support the development of new neural pathways and improve cognitive, motor, and emotional functioning.
NMT interventions are designed to address specific goals related to a patient’s neurological condition. For example, a patient with Parkinson’s disease may work on improving their gait and balance through rhythmic auditory stimulation, while a patient with aphasia following a stroke may work on improving their speech and language through singing and melodic intonation therapy.
NMT interventions are typically delivered in individual or group sessions by trained NMT therapists. The interventions may include singing, playing instruments, movement to music, and rhythmic auditory stimulation.
NMT has been shown to be effective in improving a range of outcomes for individuals with neurological conditions, including motor function, speech and language skills, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. It has become a widely recognized and respected approach to music therapy, with training programs and certification available for music therapists interested in specializing in NMT.
Sources
Some sources for further reading on NMT include:
The Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy: https://nmtacademy.co/
The American Music Therapy Association: https://www.musictherapy.org/research/neurologic_music_therapy/
The Center for Biomedical Research in Music: https://www.colorado.edu/cbrm/research/neurologic-music-therapy
Analytical Music Therapy (AMT)
Analytical Music Therapy (AMT) is a form of music therapy that uses music and other creative arts to explore the emotional and psychological aspects of a person’s life. AMT combines elements of music therapy with psychoanalytic theory to help individuals gain insight into their emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns.
AMT is based on the idea that music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, and that through music, individuals can express and process their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. The therapist uses music and other creative arts to help the client explore and understand their inner world, and to work through psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems.
The goal of AMT is to help individuals develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and insight, leading to improved mental health and overall well-being. The therapist may use a variety of techniques, including improvisation, guided imagery, songwriting, and music listening, to help the client explore and express their emotions and to facilitate the therapeutic process.
AMT is a relatively new approach to music therapy and has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is typically used with adults who are seeking therapy for psychological or emotional issues, and it may be particularly useful for individuals who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally.
Sources
AMTA (American Music Therapy Association). (2021). Analytical Music Therapy. Retrieved fromhttps://www.musictherapy.org/research/trends/analytical_music_therapy/
Wigram, T. (2004). Improvisation: Methods and Techniques for Music Therapy Clinicians, Educators, and Students. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Malchiodi, C. A. (2005). Expressive Therapies. Guilford Press.
Odell-Miller, H. (1995). Analytical Music Therapy. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Aigen, K. (2014). Analytical Music Therapy. In B. L. Wheeler (Ed.), Music Therapy Handbook (pp. 325-344). Guilford Press.
Creative music therapy
Creative Music Therapy (CMT) is a type of music therapy that encourages clients to express themselves creatively through music-making. In CMT, clients use a range of musical instruments and sounds to create music in a spontaneous and improvisational way.
The goal of CMT is to help clients develop greater self-awareness, creativity, and emotional expression. The therapist may use a variety of techniques, such as improvisation, songwriting, and music listening, to encourage clients to explore their emotions and to express themselves in a nonverbal way.
CMT is a client-centered approach, which means that the therapist follows the client’s lead and supports their creative expression without imposing their own ideas or judgments. The therapist may also help the client develop new musical skills and techniques, depending on their needs and goals.
CMT is often used with children and adolescents, as it can be a fun and engaging way to help them process emotions and develop social skills. It can also be effective for adults who are seeking therapy for issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Sources
AMTA (American Music Therapy Association). (2021). Creative Music Therapy. Retrieved fromhttps://www.musictherapy.org/research/trends/creative_music_therapy/
Priestley, M. (1994). Essays on Analytical Music Therapy. Barcelona Publishers.
Nordoff, P., & Robbins, C. (1977). Creative Music Therapy: A Guide to Fostering Clinical Musicianship. John Day Company.
Aldridge, D. (1996). Music Therapy and Neurological Rehabilitation: Performing Health. Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Vocal Psychotherapy
Vocal Psychotherapy is a type of therapy that uses the voice as the primary tool for emotional expression, exploration, and healing. In Vocal Psychotherapy, clients use their voice to express their emotions and to communicate with the therapist in a nonverbal way.
The therapist may use a variety of techniques to help clients explore their voice and to develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and insight. These techniques may include vocal improvisation, guided vocal exercises, singing, and toning.
The goal of Vocal Psychotherapy is to help clients connect with their emotions, to express themselves authentically, and to develop greater emotional awareness and resilience. It is a client-centered approach that allows clients to explore their voice and emotions at their own pace and in a safe and supportive environment.
Vocal Psychotherapy is often used with clients who have difficulty expressing their emotions verbally, such as those with trauma, anxiety, or depression. It can also be effective for individuals who have a strong connection to music and sound and who are interested in exploring the therapeutic potential of the voice
Sources:
Here are some sources if you’re interested in learning more about Vocal Psychotherapy:
Loewy, J. (2009). The Power of Voice in Psychotherapy. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Dubin, L. (2011). Vocal Psychotherapy: A Journey of the Voice and Self. Jason Aronson Publishers.
Wheeler, B. L. (Ed.). (2014). Music Therapy Handbook. Guilford Press.
AMTA (American Music Therapy Association). (2021). Vocal Psychotherapy. Retrieved fromhttps://www.musictherapy.org/research/trends/vocal_psychotherapy/
Music and Imagery (MI)
Music and Imagery (MI) is a music therapy method that combines music listening and guided imagery to help clients explore and process emotions, memories, and life experiences. MI is based on the idea that music has the power to evoke emotions and imagery, and that through this process, clients can access deeper levels of consciousness and self-awareness.
In MI, the therapist guides the client through a relaxation process and invites them to imagine a scene or experience that is relevant to their therapeutic goals. The therapist then selects music that is evocative of the client’s imagery and plays it for the client while they continue to imagine and explore their experience.
MI can be used with a variety of populations, including individuals with trauma, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. It is particularly effective for individuals who have difficulty accessing and expressing their emotions verbally, as it provides a nonverbal and creative way to explore and process emotions.
The goal of MI is to help clients develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and insight, leading to improved mental health and overall well-being. MI can be used as a standalone therapy or as part of a larger music therapy treatment plan.
Sources
AMTA (American Music Therapy Association). (2021). Music and Imagery. Retrieved fromhttps://www.musictherapy.org/research/trends/music_and_imagery/
Bruscia, K. E. (1998). Guided Imagery and Music (GIM): Its History, Contributions, and Challenges. In D. Grocke & T. Moe (Eds.), Perspectives on Music in Therapy (pp. 167-184). Barcelona Publishers.
Grocke, D., & Wigram, T. (2007). Receptive Methods in Music Therapy: Techniques and Clinical Applications for Music Therapy Clinicians, Educators and Students. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Krout, R. E. (2007). Music and Imagery Techniques for Individuals with Chronic Pain. In B. L. Wheeler (Ed.), Music Therapy Research (pp. 237-252). Barcelona Publishers.
Receptive Music Therapy
Receptive Music Therapy (RMT) is a music therapy method that involves listening to music for therapeutic purposes. In RMT, the client listens to music selected by the therapist, either alone or in a group setting, with the intention of achieving therapeutic goals such as relaxation, emotional regulation, and improved mood.
The music selected for RMT is typically chosen based on the client’s preferences and therapeutic goals, as well as the therapist’s clinical expertise. The music may be calming and soothing or energizing and uplifting, depending on the needs of the client.
RMT can be used with a wide range of populations, including individuals with mental health disorders, developmental disabilities, and medical conditions. It is particularly effective for individuals who may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally or who have limited verbal communication skills.
The goals of RMT may vary depending on the client’s needs, but typically include improving mood, reducing anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation, and enhancing overall well-being. RMT can be used as a standalone therapy or as part of a larger music therapy treatment plan.
Sources
AMTA (American Music Therapy Association). (2021). Receptive Music Therapy. Retrieved fromhttps://www.musictherapy.org/research/trends/receptive_music_therapy/
Grocke, D., & Wigram, T. (2007). Receptive Methods in Music Therapy: Techniques and Clinical Applications for Music Therapy Clinicians, Educators and Students. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Bruscia, K. E. (1998). Receptive Music Therapy. In D. Grocke & T. Moe (Eds.), Perspectives on Music in Therapy (pp. 131-166). Barcelona Publishers.
Grocke, D. and Wigram, T., 2006. Receptive methods in music therapy: Techniques and clinical applications for music therapy clinicians, educators and students. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
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