Music Therapy and Homecare Services

Music Therapy can be utilized with Homecare Services as a primary service, a co-treatment service or an adjunct treatment.  Music Therapy as a primary service works independently of other Homecare Services offered, determining a treatment plan, goals and objectives based on the medical and psychological needs of the patient.  As a co-treatment service, Music Therapy works with the selected Homecare Service(s) to determine a treatment plan, goals, and objectives and work together on an equal plane throughout treatment.  When Music Therapy serves as an adjunct treatment, the selected Homecare Service(s) determines the treatment plan, goals, and objectives while the Music Therapist provides appropriate music interventions to assist the patient throughout treatment.  The Music Therapist and Homecare Services Therapist still work closely together, but the Homecare Services Therapist takes the lead in the course of treatment.

Treatment Examples (other treatment types may apply):

Music Therapy as a Primary Service - Music Therapy can provide numerous medical benefits, including:

•  Nonpharmacological management of pain and discomfort

•  Improved respiration

•  Lower blood pressure

•  Improved cardiac output

•  Reduced heart rate

•  Relaxed muscle tension

Music Therapy can also be utilized to teach coping skills for the patient, assisting the family caregiver(s), and serving as a powerful tool in hospice care.

Adjunct Treatment Services - Music Therapy can provide effective adjunct services to all Homecare Services offered, including:

•  Nursing - Patients will occasionally become distressed or agitated when it is time for medical procedures to take place.  Music Therapy not only acts as a diversion at these times, but helps to create a positive association between the patient and caregiver, so future procedures will be easier for both patient and caregiver.

•  Physical Therapy - The structures inherent in music are ideal in assisting the physical rehabilitation focused on in Physical Therapy services.  The music reinforces and encourages movement and effort exerted by the patient.

•  Occupational Therapy - The use of instruments are ideal in assisting in fine motor rehabilitation and skill building.

•  Speech Therapy - The use of language with music is nearly inseparable, making Music Therapy and Speech Therapy highly complementary therapies.

•  Hospice Care - The multidimensional qualities of music allow it to touch many levels of consciousness.  Music can act as a catalyst to bring about relaxation, personal expressions and growth, physical and mental stimulation, comfort and affirmation.

All treatment provided depend on the individual(s) being served.  For more information on service types provided by Blue Ridge Music Therapy, please visit the Services page.

Other pages of interest:

Music Therapy and Rehabilitation Services

Individuals with Physical Disabilities

Music Therapy and Psychological Counseling