Which activities do music therapists use during treatment sessions?

Music therapists employ a variety of clinical interventions to address nonmusical goals related to movement, cognition, speech, language, and mental health. These activities are tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the patient.1

Common activities used during treatment sessions include:

• Improvisation: Creating music spontaneously, which can serve as a form of nonverbal dialogue or a basis for therapeutic interaction.1
• Songwriting: Composing original music to facilitate expression and goal achievement.12
• Lyric Analysis and Interpretation: Exploring the meaning of song lyrics to enable personal insight and contemplation.1
• Listening to Music: Utilizing music to achieve relaxation, reduce anxiety, or trigger positive memories.12
• Singing: Engaging in vocal activities, including therapeutic singing, to improve speech and cognitive functions.12
• Playing Musical Instruments: Using instruments to facilitate motor movement or social skill development.12

Specialized approaches, such as Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) or Guided Imagery and Music (GIM), may also be used to integrate specific techniques like auditory perception training or deep relaxation to support neurorehabilitation and emotional well-being.1