The psychology of music is a well researched area explaining music behavior and the impacts of different tones and rhythms. Music Therapy is the clinical use of music as an instrument of behavioral/ cognitive interventions. Music therapists use music and its many forms and elements to improve conditions like trauma (physical, emotional, mental, social), harmful behavior, depression, ADHD, etc. It also contributes to spiritual, cognitive, educational and communicative issues. The process of Music Therapy includes references, assessments, formation of long term and short term goal plans, evaluation and team meeting and finally, the outcome.
In Avaani Foundation, children are free to choose among a variety of instruments in the music therapy room according to their preference. The structure and regularity of each session provides a safe environment and sense of security for the children to express themselves, and could also be considered as a coping mechanism. Music Therapy includes music and movements, art, songwriting, singing and instruments playing. Here are a few benefits of music therapy for individuals with ASD:
Encourages communication as lyrics of songs help speech to be transferred to everyday life.
Improves social skills as it enhances the development of social skills like turn taking, sharing ideas, listening to each other and appreciating each other’s playing.
Playing instruments helps improve motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Music and movement activities include following simple directions such as clapping hands and stomping feet which also contribute to the development of motor skills.
