Music therapy

Music therapy is based on science closely related to various scientific fields, especially medicine, social sciences, psychology, music theory and pedagogy.

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In music therapy, the planned use of tones, sounds and movements is applied to increase well-being or renew, maintain and develop mental and physical health and/or abilities. Specific tonal and sound stimuli, or the properties and characteristics of tones and sounds, and the relationships formed in the musical experience are used by a specialist for the purpose of achieving set goals in the treatment, teaching and rehabilitation of people with physical, mental and social problems or disabilities. tease

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No musical skills are required. Music therapy is about connecting, expressing and communicating through music. Music is not an end in music therapy, but a means to an end.

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Examples of goals:

• To promote physical, intellectual, sensory, psychological and social development.

• Enhancing self-awareness.

• Develop the ability to express feelings and needs.

• Activate vitality and creativity.

• Boosting self-confidence and self-esteem.

• Improve self-control.

• Improve social skills and the ability to form relationships.

• Improve the ability to relax.

• Increase quality of life.

• Promoting social inclusion.

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Music therapists work with individuals of all ages as well as their families and/or caregivers. The field of work is diverse. In Iceland, music therapists have worked in various departments of Landspítala - University Hospital, in schools, in nursing homes and in their own private practice.