Therapeutic Music vs. Music Therapy: What’s the Difference?
In recent decades, the use of music for therapeutic purposes has evolved significantly, giving rise to different approaches, including music therapy and therapeutic music. Although often confused, these two disciplines have substantial differences in terms of training, application, and professional recognition.
Music Therapy vs. Therapeutic Music
Music therapy is an evidence-based clinical discipline practiced by professionals with specialized academic training. Music therapists use structured techniques such as musical improvisation, guided listening, and composition to achieve specific therapeutic goals within a professional relationship. It is a regulated practice recognized in various healthcare and rehabilitative settings.
Therapeutic music, on the other hand, is a form of sound-based practice that leverages the intrinsic properties of music to promote well-being. Its primary focus is not clinical treatment but rather creating a sonic environment that fosters relaxation, recovery, and mind-body balance. It is used in hospitals, holistic centers, hospices, and other care settings, where therapeutic musicians play live music tailored to the immediate needs of the individual.
Research and publications play a key role in the development and recognition of these fields. Music therapy is extensively studied in scientific journals such as the Journal of Music Therapy and Music Therapy Perspectives, while therapeutic music is documented in specialized publications like The Harp Therapy Journal and The Music Practitioner.
The Recognition of Therapeutic Music in the United States
In the United States, therapeutic music is recognized by the National Standards Board for Therapeutic Musicians (NSBTM), a nonprofit organization that accredits training programs for therapeutic musicians. The NSBTM has established Standards of Practice, an Ethical Code, and Educational Pathways for this discipline, clearly distinguishing it from music therapy.
Among the NSBTM-accredited programs is the International Harp Therapy Program (IHTP), which trains harp therapists to use the healing resonance of the harp to support well-being. Harp therapy is a specialized branch of therapeutic music, utilizing the harmonic richness and vibrational qualities of the harp to enhance physical and emotional wellness.
The Foundations of Therapeutic Music
Therapeutic music is based on several fundamental principles:
Resonance: Every individual has a unique resonant frequency, and music can harmonize with it to promote relaxation and well-being.
Entrainment: The rhythm and melody of music can influence bodily functions such as heart rate and breathing, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
Supportive musical elements: The individual is supported by the fundamental elements of music: rhythm, harmony, melody, and modes.
Presence and intention: Therapeutic musicians are trained in transpersonal models that reinforce focused presence and intentionality in their playing.
Subjective and objective assessment: Continuous observation and evaluation take place before, during, and after the therapeutic music session to adapt to the person’s immediate needs.
Therapeutic musicians do not diagnose or provide clinical treatments; instead, they use live music intuitively to respond to the moment.
Harp Therapy: An Example of Therapeutic Music
Harp therapy is one of the most recognized forms of therapeutic music. Thanks to its unique sonic qualities, the harp creates an immersive and harmonious atmosphere that facilitates deep relaxation. Practitioners of harp therapy, such as those trained in the International Harp Therapy Program, use specific instruments and techniques to support individuals in hospitals, hospices, wellness centers, and other care environments.
A New Paradigm for Sound Wellness
Therapeutic music represents a new paradigm in the use of sound for health, distinguishing itself from music therapy through its immediate application and reliance on the natural resonance of sound. With official recognition by the NSBTM and structured training programs, this discipline is gaining increasing importance in the field of complementary care.
If you would like to embark on a recognized harp therapy training program, discover the International Harp Therapy Program, available in Italian and French.
Marianne Gubri
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