Music Therapy: Caring for the Caregiver

Key points

Music therapy is an evidence-based practice facilitated by a board-certified music therapist.

Music therapy in a hospital setting is a valuable addendum to tradition medical practice.

Music therapy, in the hospital, addresses both the physical and emotional needs of patients and caregivers.

Being in the hospital is hard. Besides not feeling well, there’s the uncertainty of outcomes to deal with, as well as the possibility of life-threatening disease. While being in the hospital takes a toll on the physical self, it also challenges the emotional self.

Being a caregiver —a family member, friend, or caretaker—of someone in the hospital is also hard. Beyond the stress and uncertainty of what comes next, caretakers have to "put on a good face" for the patient and hold it all