Music Therapy & Lessons
What is Music Therapy?
Pamela Holm
Music therapy is the use of music and its elements – rhythm, melody, tone, metre, lyrics and harmony – to support a client’s well-being. I work with all ages, from children through the elderly. The approach used may support developmental learning, self-expression, emotional healing, social interaction, physical & cognitive activity, or spiritual exploration.
Music therapists work with people in institutions like seniors’ residences, mental health, hospitals, group homes, schools and various other locations, as well as in private practice. Populations served include the elderly including those with dementia and a range of physical challenges, the intellectually challenged, people with autism and emotional challenges, and palliative care.
Training for music therapists is done in universities across Canada and includes training both in music and therapeutic approaches to various conditions. Music therapists are accredited by the Canadian Association for Music Therapy.
What is the difference between Music Lessons and Music Therapy?
Music lessons focus on learning the musical skills and expression needed to play instruments or sing, for pleasure or with an eventual goal of performing. The learning of an instrument or voice provides the basis for a lifetime of enjoyment and social interaction through ensembles or various kinds or solo playing or performance. It stimulates the senses, emotions, cognitive processes, expressive abilities, serves as an emotionally expressive outlet. Learning with a good teacher supports self-esteem and confidence. I teach voice and basic guitar and theory.
Music therapy draws on music as a therapeutic tool used within the therapeutic relationship to support people of any age who experience challenges emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually or cognitively. Music is used to support healing or to stimulate development in any of these areas, drawing on our innate drive to express and be heard using sound, movement, and metaphor. Within the music therapy session, deeper understanding of the self, your emotions, and self-awareness may grow, deepening your ability to be in relationships – first with yourself, and then others. This is a specialty field requiring specialized training .
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Contact Pamela at email hidden; JavaScript is required or 613-829-1556
