Resources & references

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The purpose of our database is to provide an easy access to knowledge about music therapy and its application with a diverse array of clientele.  We therefore propose a selection of pertinent* references, however not exhaustive, given that each week more research and other information are published around the world. 

Note (*) : the Institute does not endorse any promotional content, publicity or donation requests that might be included in any of the references.

Language
Type of reference
Clients
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31 results
Music Therapy with Families: Therapeutic Approaches and Theoretical Perspectives
2017
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Stine Lindahl Jacobsen, Grace Thompson
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Jessica Kingsley Publishers

This book describes well-defined models of music therapy for working with families in different clinical areas, ranging from families with special needs children or dying family members through to families in psychiatric or paediatric hospital settings. International contributors discuss their specific approaches and share case studies. Particular emphasis is placed on connecting theory and clinical practice and on discussing the challenges and relevance of each model.

Musicothérapie à la maison de soins palliatifs Saint-Raphaël
2021
Type of reference
General information
Language
French
Subtitle
French
Source / Publisher
Saint-Raphaël Palliative Care Home and Day Center

This video features Anna Lacourse, certified music therapist (Quebec) who presents her work with a patient at the Saint-Raphaël Palliative Care Home and Day Center (Montreal). The patient gives a testimonial and describes the benefits he has experienced through music therapy.

Perceptions of family members of palliative medicine and hospice patients who experienced music therapy
2017
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Lisa M. Gallagher, Ruth Lagman, Debbie Bates, Melissa Edsall, et. al.
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Supportive Care in Cancer

The primary purpose of this study was to understand family members’ perceptions of music therapy experienced by a relative in palliative medicine or hospice. Patient self-reported scales and music therapist assessment of change were also investigated. Patients reported statistically significant improvement in pain, depression, distress, and mood scores. Family members of patients in palliative medicine and hospice settings reported an immediate positive impact of music therapy on the patient and on themselves.

Role of Music Therapy in Palliative Care—Methods and Techniques
2024
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Ramesh Bhuvaneswari
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Journal of Palliative Care

This paper hopes to provide an insight into the role of music therapy as a Salutogenic approach within a biopsychosocial framework and its need to be accepted in the Indian context. Music therapy may play the role with preventative and curative periods of treatment, as well as support to cope and acceptance toward the inevitable for the patient as well for the caregivers. Music therapy provides a biopsychosocial and holistic approach to palliative care.

The essential role of music therapy in medical assistance in dying
2020
Type of reference
General information
Author
Amy Clements-Cortes and Joyce Yip
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Oxford University Press Blog

This article describes work by music therapists to support patients in medically assisted dying, and discusses the role music therapy can play ofr individuals with these needs

The spiritual meaning of pre-loss music therapy to bereaved caregivers of advanced cancer patients
2009
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Lucanne Magill
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Palliative and Supportive Care

The aim of this study was to learn how music therapy sessions, held prior to the death of a loved one, impact spirituality in surviving caregivers of advanced cancer patients. Pre-loss music therapy can potentially assist caregivers during times of bereavement, as they retain memories of joy and empowerment, rather than memories of pain and distress, and find meaning through transcendence.

Therapeutic Effect of Music Therapy on Patients with End-stage Cancer: A Retrospective Study
2024
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Jiali Dong , Yanhua Qu
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Noise & Health

This research article studies the effects of music therapy for patients with a terminal illness who are receiving end-of-life care within a family context. It studies the impact that music therapy can have on patients' immune system, quality of life, quality of sleep, and anxiety and depression levels.