We are surrounded every day by music and rhythm, from the radio in the car to the beating of our hearts. Music is naturally motivating, organizing, and energizing. Even when we’re not thinking of it, music has a profound influence on our emotions and moods in ways that words so often can not. Music Therapy provides a supportive outlet to work toward physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual healing.
At Choices for Recovery, our board-certified music therapist works with individuals in our program using creative means to work toward specific recovery goals in a safe and empowering environment. During a session, group members may participate in a variety of outlets, such as drum circles, basic instrumental learning, personal songwriting, or investigating the lyrics of songs in order to find personal applications to aid in change and growth. In treatment, music therapy is a way for each person to become an active participant in his or her own expression and healing.
The American Music Therapy Association lists a number of evidence-based outcomes for music therapy in addiction recovery, including:
- Reduced muscle tension
- Decreased anxiety/agitation
- Enhanced interpersonal relationships
- Enhanced self-expression and self-awareness
- Improved perception and differentiation of feelings
- Improved ability to self sooth, recognize and cope with traumatic triggers
- Improved self-image/increased self-esteem
- Increased verbalization
- Improved group cohesiveness
- Increased motivation