Music Therapy in Stamford, CT

Photo of Josefina Cespedes - Embrace, LMSW
Embrace
LMSW
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905
I am pleased to offer you therapy, counseling, and Christian counseling, to help you unlock your full potential. To walk with you along the path of discovering and defining your identity as a child of God as you EMBRACE the “Fullness of Life” that He offers you: a whole and full life. I can help you get to know yourself, forgive yourself, and accept yourself and your loved one, as He does. You will discover your talents and explore your resources, abilities, and choices to fulfill your life purpose. I am Licensed Social Worker in CT and NY, member of Embrace a Christian Counselors group.
I am pleased to offer you therapy, counseling, and Christian counseling, to help you unlock your full potential. To walk with you along the path of discovering and defining your identity as a child of God as you EMBRACE the “Fullness of Life” that He offers you: a whole and full life. I can help you get to know yourself, forgive yourself, and accept yourself and your loved one, as He does. You will discover your talents and explore your resources, abilities, and choices to fulfill your life purpose. I am Licensed Social Worker in CT and NY, member of Embrace a Christian Counselors group.
(203) 802-6036 View (203) 802-6036
Photo of Althea Pettigrew, MHC-LP
Althea Pettigrew
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905  (Online Only)
I am passionate about promoting mental wellness, self-care, and stress management, particularly through avenues like the arts, music and dance. Drawing from my own experiences and background, which include counseling in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma, loss, addiction, and mindfulness, I am committed to supporting the well-being of both youth and adults.
I am passionate about promoting mental wellness, self-care, and stress management, particularly through avenues like the arts, music and dance. Drawing from my own experiences and background, which include counseling in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma, loss, addiction, and mindfulness, I am committed to supporting the well-being of both youth and adults.
(347) 997-8498 View (347) 997-8498
Photo of Althea Pettigrew, MHC-LP
Althea Pettigrew
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905  (Online Only)
I am passionate about promoting mental wellness, self-care, and stress management, particularly through avenues like the arts, music and dance. Drawing from my own experiences and background, which include counseling in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma, loss, addiction, and mindfulness, I am committed to supporting the well-being of both youth and adults.
I am passionate about promoting mental wellness, self-care, and stress management, particularly through avenues like the arts, music and dance. Drawing from my own experiences and background, which include counseling in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma, loss, addiction, and mindfulness, I am committed to supporting the well-being of both youth and adults.
(646) 760-8129 View (646) 760-8129
Photo of Andrea De Ott, LCSW, R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea De Ott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06901
Andrea is the Clinic and Training Director of the Systemic Psychotherapy Center, a Bilingual (Spanish- English) Group Practice. She developed her principle of systemic psychotherapy based on the utilization of a diverse range of clinical techniques (from science and art), but also a broad capacity of introspection (from spirituality). Andrea's commitment to healing led her to create training programs and psychotherapeutic techniques to expand awareness, such as flamenco psychotherapy (a dance and music technique to heal somatic complaints caused by traumatization). She also taught family systems therapy at Fordham University.
Andrea is the Clinic and Training Director of the Systemic Psychotherapy Center, a Bilingual (Spanish- English) Group Practice. She developed her principle of systemic psychotherapy based on the utilization of a diverse range of clinical techniques (from science and art), but also a broad capacity of introspection (from spirituality). Andrea's commitment to healing led her to create training programs and psychotherapeutic techniques to expand awareness, such as flamenco psychotherapy (a dance and music technique to heal somatic complaints caused by traumatization). She also taught family systems therapy at Fordham University.
(475) 897-5544 View (475) 897-5544
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, PhD, NCC, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06902
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 22 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(475) 255-7342 View (475) 255-7342

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laura Joy Florio - Life Lyrics Music Therapy , LCAT, MT-BC, MA
Life Lyrics Music Therapy
LCAT, MT-BC, MA
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
My practice utilizes humanistic and strength-based approaches, to promote meaningful communication and joy! My previous experience in medical music therapy has allowed me to specifically tailor my therapeutic style to use empathy and value each individual journey.
Each family has a different story and unique voice which may have drawn you to music therapy for many reasons. I have expanded my passion to help children and families communicate and grow together as they navigate through life. During each session, I will listen and observe your story, build off of your strengths, and assist in growing life skills and personal relationships. I can utilize musical interventions such as singing, instrumental improvisation, and songwriting while also using verbal processing where necessary, in order to reach personalized goals.
My practice utilizes humanistic and strength-based approaches, to promote meaningful communication and joy! My previous experience in medical music therapy has allowed me to specifically tailor my therapeutic style to use empathy and value each individual journey.
Each family has a different story and unique voice which may have drawn you to music therapy for many reasons. I have expanded my passion to help children and families communicate and grow together as they navigate through life. During each session, I will listen and observe your story, build off of your strengths, and assist in growing life skills and personal relationships. I can utilize musical interventions such as singing, instrumental improvisation, and songwriting while also using verbal processing where necessary, in order to reach personalized goals.
(929) 492-2547 View (929) 492-2547
Photo of Sarah Michael Novia, MS, EdS, LPCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Sarah Michael Novia
Counselor, MS, EdS, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
New Canaan, CT 06840  (Online Only)
Are you a high-performing female, who is feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Would you like to cut back on drinking or other maladaptive impulses? Let’s work together to improve your mental health using your strengths to adjust to stressors instead of engaging in negative behaviors. With my encouragement, you will learn to overcome or manage the issues you are untangling and move forward - where you deserve to be. Additionally, I have specializations in trauma, divorce mediation, grief, medication-assisted alcohol abatement, and the psychological aftermath of psychedelic experiences.
Are you a high-performing female, who is feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Would you like to cut back on drinking or other maladaptive impulses? Let’s work together to improve your mental health using your strengths to adjust to stressors instead of engaging in negative behaviors. With my encouragement, you will learn to overcome or manage the issues you are untangling and move forward - where you deserve to be. Additionally, I have specializations in trauma, divorce mediation, grief, medication-assisted alcohol abatement, and the psychological aftermath of psychedelic experiences.
(323) 745-1417 View (323) 745-1417
Photo of Ariel Trudell, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ariel Trudell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwalk, CT 06851  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Starting therapy can be uncomfortable and anxiety inducing. However, you deserve to feel relief! It’s time to take care of yourself and begin your journey to growth and healing. While therapy can be thought of as many different avenues, it’s truly your unique experience to process your hardships, struggles and concerns. I utilize a holistic approach and will tailor our sessions around your needs while focusing on our goals. I also use a client-centered, strength-based, solution-focused approach. My goal is to help you build your toolbox with coping skills that you can access anytime.
Now accepting new clients! Starting therapy can be uncomfortable and anxiety inducing. However, you deserve to feel relief! It’s time to take care of yourself and begin your journey to growth and healing. While therapy can be thought of as many different avenues, it’s truly your unique experience to process your hardships, struggles and concerns. I utilize a holistic approach and will tailor our sessions around your needs while focusing on our goals. I also use a client-centered, strength-based, solution-focused approach. My goal is to help you build your toolbox with coping skills that you can access anytime.
(203) 894-6258 View (203) 894-6258
Photo of Andrew Golden, MA, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Golden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Canaan, CT 06840
Life has many challenges, it's how you grow from your past that defines who you are in life. You may feel alone, misunderstood, and unfulfilled with your life or personal relationships. Perhaps you're having intense negative emotions. People typically enter therapy when they are in distress, although it's usually the long-term and underlying struggles that concern them the most. Initially, we will work quickly to address your immediate pain and provide relief. As therapy progresses, our focus may shift so you develop more positive and enriching relationships with yourself and others.
Life has many challenges, it's how you grow from your past that defines who you are in life. You may feel alone, misunderstood, and unfulfilled with your life or personal relationships. Perhaps you're having intense negative emotions. People typically enter therapy when they are in distress, although it's usually the long-term and underlying struggles that concern them the most. Initially, we will work quickly to address your immediate pain and provide relief. As therapy progresses, our focus may shift so you develop more positive and enriching relationships with yourself and others.
(203) 590-9265 View (203) 590-9265
Photo of Ferris Clare, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Ferris Clare
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06850
Are you finding your everyday existence fulfilling and rewarding? Are you presenting the best version of yourself to the world daily? Have your goals transitioned from the confines of your mind into the realm of reality? Have you been burdened by the weight of anxiety or depression? If you could use support in any of the aforementioned areas, I am happy to share that I am currently accepting new clients. I am Ferris Clare, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I will guide you through life’s inevitable challenges and plateaus to collaboratively support you in realizing and cultivating the power that lies within you.
Are you finding your everyday existence fulfilling and rewarding? Are you presenting the best version of yourself to the world daily? Have your goals transitioned from the confines of your mind into the realm of reality? Have you been burdened by the weight of anxiety or depression? If you could use support in any of the aforementioned areas, I am happy to share that I am currently accepting new clients. I am Ferris Clare, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I will guide you through life’s inevitable challenges and plateaus to collaboratively support you in realizing and cultivating the power that lies within you.
(203) 625-1758 View (203) 625-1758
Photo of Hannah Chesser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Chesser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Darien, CT 06820
The foundation of our programming is our team of compassionate and highly experienced behavioral healthcare professionals. The Newport staff is comprised of the best mental health leaders in the country, surrounding each client with 360-degree care. Because Newport’s philosophy of care views family as central to long-term, sustainable healing, the groundbreaking Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) methodology is also a central component of our approach. ABFT is proven to be successful in addressing adolescent and young adult suicidality by repairing ruptures in the parent-child relationship.
The foundation of our programming is our team of compassionate and highly experienced behavioral healthcare professionals. The Newport staff is comprised of the best mental health leaders in the country, surrounding each client with 360-degree care. Because Newport’s philosophy of care views family as central to long-term, sustainable healing, the groundbreaking Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) methodology is also a central component of our approach. ABFT is proven to be successful in addressing adolescent and young adult suicidality by repairing ruptures in the parent-child relationship.
(203) 580-6754 View (203) 580-6754
Photo of Nadia Abdo, PhD
Nadia Abdo
PhD
Verified Verified
Old Greenwich, CT 06870
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients at this time. When I do, I welcome all and offer a free 35 minute intro session. I specialize in Grief, Trauma, Relationship Challenges, Suicide, Emotion Regulation, Anxiety, Cultural Challenges, Work Challenges & Eating Disorders. My current work & previous experience includes: NASA, DEIB Specialist (Current); Santa Rosa Jr. College, Director of Res Life; Pacific Union College, Professor (2024); Berklee School of Music, Res Life Director (2023); Rutgers (2021-22) University at Buffalo, Assistant Director of Counseling (20-21); Dartmouth, Research Coord. (2020); Cornell University, Psychologist (2016-19).
Not accepting new clients at this time. When I do, I welcome all and offer a free 35 minute intro session. I specialize in Grief, Trauma, Relationship Challenges, Suicide, Emotion Regulation, Anxiety, Cultural Challenges, Work Challenges & Eating Disorders. My current work & previous experience includes: NASA, DEIB Specialist (Current); Santa Rosa Jr. College, Director of Res Life; Pacific Union College, Professor (2024); Berklee School of Music, Res Life Director (2023); Rutgers (2021-22) University at Buffalo, Assistant Director of Counseling (20-21); Dartmouth, Research Coord. (2020); Cornell University, Psychologist (2016-19).
(341) 888-6797 View (341) 888-6797

Online Therapists

Photo of Leesa Sklover, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leesa Sklover
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
Pregnancy- Fertility-Postpartum, Performance Enhancement, Performers/Athletes, Yoga- music therapy, Work-School Stress,Crisis Consulting, Business.
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
Pregnancy- Fertility-Postpartum, Performance Enhancement, Performers/Athletes, Yoga- music therapy, Work-School Stress,Crisis Consulting, Business.
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
(203) 872-9525 View (203) 872-9525
Photo of Shannon Kiley, MM, MT-BC
Shannon Kiley
MM, MT-BC
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06515
Whatever challenges life has brought you, it helps to have the support of a therapist and the power of music to help you through it. Music is a friend and a transformative tool capable of clearing blocks, bringing insight, and healing wounds. No music experience is necessary to engage in music therapy, but it helps if you're a music lover. I offer a holistic and humanistic approach; I believe the problems you are facing should be understood in the context of your full being, and that working from a foundation of full acceptance is essential.
Whatever challenges life has brought you, it helps to have the support of a therapist and the power of music to help you through it. Music is a friend and a transformative tool capable of clearing blocks, bringing insight, and healing wounds. No music experience is necessary to engage in music therapy, but it helps if you're a music lover. I offer a holistic and humanistic approach; I believe the problems you are facing should be understood in the context of your full being, and that working from a foundation of full acceptance is essential.
(475) 471-0987 View (475) 471-0987
Photo of Chelsea Humphrey - Tides of Mind Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tides of Mind Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06705
aromatherapy, mindfulness/meditation, horticulture, art & music therapy) are unique in our work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression and/or stress.
Tides of Mind Counseling is among Connecticut's top counseling centers dedicated to providing excellence in mental healthcare. Our offices are located throughout CT where our licensed professionals work extensively with you to manage life's challenges, promote healthy relationships and encourage inner healing. Tides of Mind is unlike the common "counseling clinic" in that we offer creative & holistic therapeutic techniques in an office that is private, relaxing and has a spa-like feel. Our therapists provide a holistic approach to treatment and ensure that you feel supported and empowered throughout all aspects of life.
aromatherapy, mindfulness/meditation, horticulture, art & music therapy) are unique in our work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression and/or stress.
Tides of Mind Counseling is among Connecticut's top counseling centers dedicated to providing excellence in mental healthcare. Our offices are located throughout CT where our licensed professionals work extensively with you to manage life's challenges, promote healthy relationships and encourage inner healing. Tides of Mind is unlike the common "counseling clinic" in that we offer creative & holistic therapeutic techniques in an office that is private, relaxing and has a spa-like feel. Our therapists provide a holistic approach to treatment and ensure that you feel supported and empowered throughout all aspects of life.
(860) 764-2972 View (860) 764-2972
Photo of Royann Johnson Ttp Counseling Llc, MS LPCC, LPC, ACS, CEAP, SAP
Royann Johnson Ttp Counseling Llc
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS LPCC, LPC, ACS, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meriden, CT 06450  (Online Only)
Do you want sustainable personal growth in life? I work with adults and children alike. I offer in Individual, family/couples therapy, trauma has applications in hospital, private, court, and other community settings. I am eager to support you to manifest the sustainable change you are seeking for your future. I use specialized modalities like EMDR for trauma, IFS, CBT, PCIT, (Parent Child Interaction Therapy) to increase parenting skills, and Solution Focused interventions. I am here for your journey, your change, and your progress! I am a certified special education advocate, as well as DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
Do you want sustainable personal growth in life? I work with adults and children alike. I offer in Individual, family/couples therapy, trauma has applications in hospital, private, court, and other community settings. I am eager to support you to manifest the sustainable change you are seeking for your future. I use specialized modalities like EMDR for trauma, IFS, CBT, PCIT, (Parent Child Interaction Therapy) to increase parenting skills, and Solution Focused interventions. I am here for your journey, your change, and your progress! I am a certified special education advocate, as well as DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
(567) 278-9289 View (567) 278-9289
Photo of Charlotte Underwood, MA, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Underwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Stonington, CT 06378
I am a depth oriented psychotherapist specializing in trauma, ancestral healing, and somatic therapy. While you may be experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or insomnia, these are all symptoms. I work with you to heal what’s causing your distress, dis-ease. When the body, heart, mind, soul and spirit are not aligned, we suffer. We will work using a variety of approaches depending on what needs the most tending and care, always with compassion and a pace that is safe and allows for long term healing, integration, and nervous system regulation, allowing your natural rhythm to return.
I am a depth oriented psychotherapist specializing in trauma, ancestral healing, and somatic therapy. While you may be experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or insomnia, these are all symptoms. I work with you to heal what’s causing your distress, dis-ease. When the body, heart, mind, soul and spirit are not aligned, we suffer. We will work using a variety of approaches depending on what needs the most tending and care, always with compassion and a pace that is safe and allows for long term healing, integration, and nervous system regulation, allowing your natural rhythm to return.
(401) 388-3421 View (401) 388-3421
Photo of Dr. Kristy M Vanacore, PsyD, PC, Psychologist
Dr. Kristy M Vanacore
Psychologist, PsyD, PC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilton, CT 06897
Welcome friends! I am a holistic psychologist, family wellness practitioner, author, & mom who revolutionized the field of holistic psychology for adults, kids, teens, & families for over two decades by integrating enduring wisdom with contemporary science to achieve true health & wellness. You or your child will be untethering from limitations of fear, distraction, apathy, outdated beliefs, & unhealthy behavior patterns & moving toward the empowered freedom of courage, creativity, passion, instinctual wisdom, boundless joy, potent self-healing capacities, and radical authenticity that allows your true self to shine!
Welcome friends! I am a holistic psychologist, family wellness practitioner, author, & mom who revolutionized the field of holistic psychology for adults, kids, teens, & families for over two decades by integrating enduring wisdom with contemporary science to achieve true health & wellness. You or your child will be untethering from limitations of fear, distraction, apathy, outdated beliefs, & unhealthy behavior patterns & moving toward the empowered freedom of courage, creativity, passion, instinctual wisdom, boundless joy, potent self-healing capacities, and radical authenticity that allows your true self to shine!
(203) 408-1563 View (203) 408-1563
Photo of Michael Dutko, LPC, LADC, MA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Michael Dutko
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LPC, LADC, MA
Verified Verified
Middlebury, CT 06762
I have over 18 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of Substance Abuse Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Behavoiral difficulties and emotional regulation. I am trained in a variety of different models including CBT/EMDR/DBT /CPT Person Centered Approaches, Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Tf-CBT.
I have over 18 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of Substance Abuse Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Behavoiral difficulties and emotional regulation. I am trained in a variety of different models including CBT/EMDR/DBT /CPT Person Centered Approaches, Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Tf-CBT.
(203) 806-9432 View (203) 806-9432
Photo of Damara Elizabeth Casillas - New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Chapter Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomfield, CT 06002  (Online Only)
Taking the first step into the therapeutic world is difficult. Sometimes we allow our pride to get in the way of our growth, somehow we feel that engaging in therapy equates to “not having it all together.” Other times it may feel like a sign of weakness or therapy simply is the UNKNOWN. However, if you fall into the majority you are prioritizing everything else in your life to avoid it. Whether you fall into all these categories or none I am here to encourage you to show up for yourself ! Create time in your busy schedule to EXHALE. No matter where you are in this book called life the chapter titled “YOU" is the most important.
Taking the first step into the therapeutic world is difficult. Sometimes we allow our pride to get in the way of our growth, somehow we feel that engaging in therapy equates to “not having it all together.” Other times it may feel like a sign of weakness or therapy simply is the UNKNOWN. However, if you fall into the majority you are prioritizing everything else in your life to avoid it. Whether you fall into all these categories or none I am here to encourage you to show up for yourself ! Create time in your busy schedule to EXHALE. No matter where you are in this book called life the chapter titled “YOU" is the most important.
(860) 880-2704 View (860) 880-2704
Music Therapy

How does music therapy work?

A music therapist will begin by assessing the client’s specific needs and getting a sense of their musical ability and interests. Musical training is not required, and clients of all ages can benefit from this type of therapy. The therapist will then make a plan for how to achieve the client’s therapeutic goal(s) using a range of receptive (e.g., listening to a song) and active (e.g., drumming in a group) music therapy techniques.

What are some common music therapy techniques?

Music therapy usually involves listening to music (either live or recorded). Music therapy clients may also make music on popular instruments, such as the piano, guitar, and hand drum, or sing. Sometimes music therapy can include guided imagery. A music therapist may ask clients to improvise on the spot or even compose their own songs. Dancing or moving to music can be an effective intervention to help clients feel more fully grounded in their bodies and remain in the present moment.

How does music therapy help with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Music therapy can be a valuable creative outlet for clients with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who have trouble putting their painful feelings into words. Listening to music can be relaxing while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. In addition to its mood-boosting effects, music therapy can help clients build resilience and overcome PTSD symptoms that may interfere with their daily lives.

How long does music therapy take?

Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes. They can be scheduled in advance (for example, once a week) or can be done on an as-needed basis. Some clients will only require a handful of music therapy sessions to achieve their goals, while others may need months or longer, depending on their specific concern.