Resources & references

This is a summary of a study, which reveals promising findings for the application of improvisational music therapy in assuaging the multidimensional acute pain of adult patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). 

This document describes how music therapy can benefit elderly and their caregivers, particularly in Australia. It explains what music therapy is, its affordability and accessibility in Australia, and how it can improve the quality of life among adults with dementia, anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases.

This paper delineates the design and development of the mindfulness-based music therapy (MBMT) program implemented in a pilot study and includes clients’ narrative journal responses. Conclusions and recommendations, including recommendation for further exploration of the function of music in mindfulness practice are provided.

This study was the first application of group drumming to be used for an entire treatment session in an acute psychiatric setting. This was also the first research trial to use drumming alone to influence the mood of in-patient psychiatric individuals. Results of this study indicate that a group drumming protocol can be successfully utilized as part of the psychosocial training program in a hospital setting. 

The purpose of this study was to measure the effects of music therapy-based bereavement groups on mood and behavior of grieving children. The investigator concluded that participation in music therapy-based bereavement groups served to reduce grief symptoms among the subjects as evaluated in the home. Teacher and self-evaluations were less conclusive. 

This study investigated feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a single-session electronic music improvisation with a music therapist to diminish pain intensity and improve pain relief and mood in adults with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Qualitatively, there were two prominent themes directly related to music: 1) music listening and music therapy offered many positive and few negative effects; and 2) music therapists provided comfort beyond the music. 

The aims of this study were to determine the effectiveness of group music therapy for improving depression and delaying the deterioration of cognitive functions in elderly persons with dementia. The group music intervention is a noninvasive and inexpensive therapy that appeared to reduce elders’ depression. 
 

This study explored the efficacy of group music therapy sessions for teenagers and adults receiving in-patient eating disorder treatment. The results determined that music therapy was effective in reducing negative affect, improving emotional expression, supporting social connection, and helping patients on their recovery journey.

This film shares the story of three people who have been supported through the power of music.
Music therapy helps people of all ages find their voice. Music therapy is unique in connecting at an emotional level, while improving speech, movement and learning skills.

This article describes the experience of a registered music therapist in Australia who offered music therapy services to an older adult with early onset dementia. It provides clinical examples of what music therapy is and how it can improve the quality of life of older adults.