Music Therapy

Music Therapy is the purposeful use of music to achieve non-musical goals.

Carson Music Services specializes in Music Therapy interventions for those with Alzheimer's, Dementia, and other related memory impairments. With over 18 years of experience in Long Term Care and Special Care Memory Units, Carson Music Services can adapt to the needs of each client and to the needs of each facility. Services are offered in health facilities as well as 1:1 in private homes.

Carson Music Services also services children with special needs on a 1:1 basis or in a group setting. Sessions are held either at the home studio, or at the client's home. For children in private schools or home-schooled, funding for music therapy through the Jon Peterson Scholarship may apply.

A full assessment is conducted to assess strengths and areas of focus, from which customized and personalized goals are created.

What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is an allied health service similar to occupational therapy and physical therapy. It consists of using music therapeutically to address physical, psychological, cognitive and/or social functioning. Because music therapy is a powerful and non-threatening medium, unique outcomes are possible. In addition to its applications with elderly persons, music therapy is used successfully with all ages and disabilities.

When individualized music experiences are designed by a professionally trained music therapist to fit functional abilities and needs, responses may be immediate and readily apparent. Participants without a music background can benefit from music therapy.


Music Therapy Provides:

  • Memory recall which contributes to reminiscence and satisfaction with life

  • Positive changes in mood and emotional states

  • Sense of control over life through successful experiences

  • Awareness of self and environment which accompanies increased attention to music

  • Anxiety and stress reduction for older adult and caregiver

  • Nonpharmacological management of pain and suffering

  • Stimulation which provokes interest even when no other approach is effective

  • Structure which promotes rhythmic and continuous movement or vocal fluency as an adjunct to physical rehabilitation

  • Emotional intimacy when spouses and families share creative music experiences

  • Opportunities to interact socially with others

  • A forum to share common experiences and enjoyment as a couple or family

  • Meaningful time spent together in a positive, creative way

  • Relaxation for the entire family

  • Stimulation for reminiscence of family bonds

  • Unity and intimacy for families through verbal and nonverbal interaction

  • Respite for the caregiver


Types of Music Therapy

  • music improvisation

  • receptive music listening

  • song writing

  • lyric discussion

  • music and imagery

  • music performance

  • learning through music


For more information about music therapy: www.musictherapy.org