What is Music Therapy?

Music has been used to achieve well-being from the time of ancient civilizations. The Egyptians, Chinese, and Greeks utilized music to regulate emotions, calm minds, and accompany healing and religious rituals. In the United States, music therapy became a formalized profession following WWI and WWII when bedside musicians observed the effect of music on veterans who had experienced trauma. Music therapy is now an established health profession that uses music and music experiences to meet the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of children, youth, and adults in group and personal settings. Music therapy is covered by some health insurers; check with your plan for details, or contact us for more information.

Who leads Music Therapy sessions?

There are over 10,000 board-certified music therapists in the U.S. carrying the credential “MT-BC” or Music Therapist, Board Certified. This certification requires that individuals complete an accredited collegiate music therapy program, fulfill the required hours of practicum and internship experience, pass a board certification exam, and regularly engage in continuing education. WCMS is proud to have a long-standing and growing music therapy program with staff members Shayla McDermott and Monika Gibbons.

Shayla McDermott works onsite at WCMS to provide individual therapy sessions and lead a People with Parkinson’s group. She uses a strength-based and encouraging style that values everyone’s individuality and facilitates meaningful individual and group sessions. She also offers music therapy outreach to local assisted living, memory care, and independent living communities. Monika Gibbons leads a remote People with Parkinson’s group and enjoys helping each participant connect with music to fulfill their therapy needs and explore their personal expression.

What happens during in-person Music Therapy?

For in-person therapy, Shayla begins by meeting with a group or individual for a short assessment to determine the goals of a child, parent, family, caretaker, or community, as well as their musical interests. She then begins regular sessions to work towards those goals. During a music therapy session, a group or individual may engage in singing, listening, dancing/moving, songwriting, improvisation, playing various instruments, and/or discussing musical and personal interests.

Music Therapy offerings at WCMS:

To learn more about Music Therapy:

Written by WCMS Music Therapist Shayla McDermott, September 2024