Music Therapy is an established health care profession that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of people of all ages. Music therapy improves the quality of life for people who are well and meets the needs of children and adults with disabilities or illnesses.

Music therapy is adaptable to any child. Based on the child's medical, developmental and social needs, a board-certified music therapist can create a non-threatening, non-invasive treatment plan to help children better cope with being in the hospital. Because children who are in the hospital have a great deal of fear, anxiety and perceived loss of control, music therapy allows them to express themselves, make independent choices, and be successful while learning to cope with being in the hospital.

Music Therapy goals may include:

• Emotional support
• Procedural support
• Fine and gross motor development
• Pain/anxiety management
• Normalization of environment
• Socialization
• Legacy creation/memory building
• Developmental support
• Sensory stimulation
• Family support
• Coping
• Self-expression and awareness

Music Therapy techniques may include:

• Songwriting
• Instrument Improvisation
• Movement to music
• Music assisted relaxation
• Singing
• Interactive music making
• Lyric discussion
• Parent-Child interaction

Referrals are accepted by:
Child life specialists, child life assistants, social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, families, members of the clergy, and patients.