The Rhythm of Recovery: Music Therapy’s Role in Beating Addiction
Since ancient times music has been used for healing the body, mind, spirit. This show will increase awareness about the profession of music therapy, and the benefits of incorporating music therapy into substance abuse treatment.
Can music really help in the fight against addiction? In this enlightening episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', host Mary Woods chats with Dr. Kathleen Murphy, Director of Wellness and Complementary Therapies at Seabrook House in New Jersey, to uncover the transformative power of music therapy. Dr. Murphy explains how music can be more than just a form of entertainment—it can be a goal-oriented tool for healing.
Whether it's reducing stress, improving communication skills, or boosting self-esteem, music therapy offers a unique way to address mental health and wellbeing. Dr. Murphy dives into the specifics of how different types of music can serve various therapeutic purposes. For example, calming tunes might be used to alleviate anxiety, while more evocative pieces can help individuals explore deeper emotional states.
But it’s not all smooth sailing; one of the hurdles is insurance coverage, which isn't always available for music therapy, making it a challenge for some facilities to offer this service. Despite these challenges, Dr. Murphy highlights the growing body of evidence supporting music therapy’s effectiveness in addiction treatment. She also stresses the importance of finding a qualified music therapist to ensure the best outcomes.
Music therapy isn’t just about playing a favorite song; it’s about using music strategically to meet specific therapeutic goals. The episode wraps up with some practical tips from Dr. Murphy on improving sleep hygiene—a crucial element for overall mental health. Simple steps like regular exercise and creating a calming bedtime environment can make a big difference. This conversation between Mary Woods and Dr.
Kathleen Murphy offers valuable insights into how music therapy can be an innovative and effective component of addiction treatment. Tune in to discover how melodies and rhythms can play a part in the journey to recovery.