Music Therapy Services




Music Therapy is the prescribed use of music and music related strategies, by a qualified music therapist, to assist or motivate a person towards specific non-musical goals. Music therapists use their training as musicians and clinicians to affect changes in cognitive, physical, communication, social, employment, and emotional skills.

Julie has been a part of the music therapy program at STAR for thirteen years. She has achieved several goals during that time, including cognitive, social, employment, and leisure skills. Julie has demonstrated much progress with her current goal – memory skills development.

 

Music is important as therapy because it reaches and affects emotions. It provides a means of verbal and nonverbal communication. Also, music is used as a carrier of information making it an effective learning aid.


Upon the completion of a music therapy assessment, a music therapist designs developmentally appropriate activities.  These individualized activities create a positive environment and set the stage for success through a unique variety of musical experiences, such as singing, playing instruments, moving and listening.

Music Therapy uses positive reinforcement to improve self esteem. Helping clients feel confident in their abilities is an important part of the program. Music therapy makes a difference by addressing several needs at one time and motivates individuals to achieve their goals such as:
  • Communication
  • Mobility
  • Cognition/Academic
  • Social/Emotional
  • Independent Living
  • Behavioral
  • Employment

Music Therapy serves children and adults. It helps individuals with varied disabilities including:
  • Stroke
  • Head Injury
  • Autism
  • Physical Disabilities
  • Visual Impairment
  • Learning Disabilities
  • Attention Deficit Disorder
  • Developmental Delays
  • Sensory Impairment

The structural characteristics of music make it a valuable intervention. Research has shown that music is processed in both hemispheres of the brain, which in turn stimulates all the senses and involves a person at many different levels.

These musical characteristics help to:
  • Provide pleasure
  • Stimulate memory
  • Develop sensory awareness
  • Focus attention
  • Provide creative expression
  • Increase social interaction
  • Motivate


The STAR Center's Music Therapy Internship Program

Music Therapy at STAR was officially approved as a clinical training site on June 16, 1997.  Applications are now being accepted for two interns per training period.  Interns from throughout the United States have successfully completed their 6-Month Internship and become AMTA-certified Music Therapists through this program.  Visit our internship page for more information.

Click here for a list of resources used by our Music Therapy Department.