Although it can be quite fun, music therapy isn’t entertainment. It is the clinical use of music by trained professionals to target specific therapeutic goals.

Music therapy can help people to:

• Express emotions
• Manage pain and anxiety
• Reminisce
• Improve quality of life
• Feel less isolated
• Connect with loved ones

Visits from a music therapist may include listening to live music you like, reminiscing, writing a song, playing instruments or learning music-assisted relaxation skills. You don’t need to have any previous musical experience or ability in order to benefit from music. Family members are also encouraged to participate in music sessions.

It is available to any patient in the Kansas City Hospice, Palliative Care or Carousel programs throughout our service area.  A social worker or nurse can make a referral, and then a board-certified music therapist or music therapy intern will contact you to schedule an initial visit. Due to therapist schedules, there may be a wait list for services. For more information about music therapy, see musictherapy.org.