WHAT IS MUSIC THERAPY?

Music Therapy is a recognised allied health profession that uses music in intentional and evidence-based ways to support people’s health, wellbeing, and daily functioning. It can benefit people of all ages, helping them manage both physical and mental health while improving quality of life. 

For more information, visit the Australian Music Therapy Association

Music Therapy with adolescents:

  • Music during the adolescent years is extremely formative

  • Can you remember the music you listened to when you were 12-25?

  • The average adolescent spends two and a half hours daily listening to their preferred music (McFerran, 2010, p. 60)

  • Young people use music to relax, become in touch with oneself, foster creative thinking, connect to personal experiences, access subconscious thoughts and feelings, and as a means of communication (McFerran, 2010, p. 70)

  • Preferred music can serve as an indication to a young person’s thought process and mood 

Music Therapy with young people in custody:

In the context of the youth justice system, music therapy also offers a creative and therapeutic approach that engages young people in ways words alone may not. The therapeutic process focuses on using music- whether through creating, listening, or performing—to facilitate emotional exploration, personal growth and develop strategies to support their overall health.