SOUTHEASTERN REGION
American Music Therapy Association


What is MUSIC THERAPY?

The American Music Therapy Association defines music therapy as ...

"...the prescribed use of music by a qualified person to effect positive changes in the psychological, physical, cognitive, or social functioning of individuals with health or educational problems."

Music Therapy IS ...

  • a planned treatment intervention with well-defined goals and objectives;

  • a process in which a relationship develops within and by means of musical experiences;

  • an intervention based on a pre-treatment, individualized music therapy assessment;

  • an experience in which the music and the modes of musical expression are chosen to meet the individual client's needs;

  • an intervention which can address physical, psychological, social, communication, and behavioral goals.
..
Music Therapy is NOT ...

Music Medicine:

Special Music Education:
The use of special techniques and activities to teach special learners about music.

Music Lessons:
Engaging a person in musical activities in order to develop performance skills on an instrument.

Recreational Music: Engaging a person in musical activities primarily as a leisure pursuit, hobby, or pasttime.

Entertainment:
Performing live music or playing recorded music for persons who are primarily passive or receptive participants.


FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS
about Music Therapy
...from the website of the A.M.T.A


This information maintained by Michael E. Clark, Webmaster of the Southeastern Region, AMTA
Last Updated: October 18, 2007
If you have comments or suggestions, contact Michael E. Clark at: contact@ser-amta.org