Music therapy combines the emotional aspects of how we feel in music, with the neurological and physiological effects that we often don’t even think about. 

 

Because music not only captures our emotions, but also influences how we breathe, how we move, the tension in our muscles,  and even the speed at which our blood flows -  thoughtful application of music therapy can greatly reduce the physical discomfort associated with many forms of chronic pain and illness. 

 

In addition, techniques such as singing, music listening, songwriting, and improvised music making can give voice to the emotional challenges and struggles with personal identity and self image that can emerge when faced with a medically complex diagnosis.

 

Through music therapy individuals can learn techniques to better cope with both the physical and emotional aspects of their diagnosis, in an attempt to feel more like themselves, beyond pain and illness.