Have you ever had the worst morning ever, but then one song changes your whole day around? Have you heard an artist and thought to yourself “how are they writing about my life so well?” Have you made a playlist for an exciting celebration, or perhaps to process a horrible break-up? Music has been used as a tool for healing and emotional expression for centuries. In therapy, it serves as a bridge between thoughts and emotions, providing a powerful way to process experiences that may be difficult to articulate through words alone. Whether through active participation, guided listening, or creating music, the therapeutic benefits of music span across all ages. I recently attended a professional conference where I had the opportunity to dive into the idea of music in therapy, where through music I connected with therapists from around the world, discovered more about how to utilize music throughout the therapy process, learned how music drives our development as humans, and took time to experience the therapeutic benefits of music first-hand. Given that it was Grammy’s month and this is Music City, I thought it fitting to explore how music influences different developmental stages and how therapists might incorporate it into sessions to enhance the healing process!
From the moment a child is born, music plays a crucial role in emotional bonding. Lullabies, rhythmic sounds, soothing melodies, even a loved one’s heart beat helps infants regulate emotions, reduce stress, and enhance attachment with caregivers. Infants and young children benefit from rhythmic activities, such as drumming or bouncing to music, which help develop motor coordination and sensory processing. Simple, repetitive songs support early speech and language skills by reinforcing phonetic patterns and encouraging vocalization, and familiar melodies can soothe anxiety and provide a sense of safety, especially for children who have experienced trauma or separation. As children grow, music becomes a vehicle for self-expression and emotional regulation. Many children and adolescents struggle to verbalize their thoughts and feelings, so making and listening to music is a valuable therapeutic tool. As a therapist who specializes in Play Therapy for children ages 3-12, I encourage all of my young clients to share their favorite song, album, instrument, playlist, or artist with me, whether it’s Miss Rachel, Chappell Roan, or Nirvana, so that I can get a glimpse into what they might be feeling and thinking. We can use songwriting, improvisation, playlist making, and more to help children and teens express thoughts and emotions that might be difficult to share verbally. Music can help clients manage anxiety, anger, or sadness by providing a structured yet comfortable way to process emotions.
For adults, music can serve as a tool for reflection, relaxation, and coping with stress. It can be especially helpful in therapy for those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or grief. In therapeutic settings, music can be used to evoke memories and emotions while providing a safe outlet for processing difficult experiences. Many clients also find music-assisted meditation to be relaxing and de-stressing. For older adults, especially those experiencing cognitive decline or dementia, music can be a powerful tool for memory recall and social engagement. In therapy, familiar songs from a person’s past can trigger memories and emotions, helping individuals reconnect with their personal history or loved ones. Music can facilitate communication when verbal expression becomes difficult and can create a sense of community and connection among older adults.
No matter what age you are, music is a powerful tool for learning, expression, processing, and remembering. We all have that one song that reminds us of that one person, or that one album that reminds us of that summer years ago, that one artist that makes you dance, or makes you cry, or that one concert that was actually the best night of your life. The impact of music can be felt by all, and in my experience, can lead to some of the best therapeutic experiences. Music can be incorporated into therapy in various ways, depending on the client’s age, needs and preferences. Music is a universal language that transcends age, culture, and background, making it a valuable tool in therapy. By understanding the developmental impact of music and incorporating it strategically, therapists can create meaningful and transformative experiences for their clients. Whether used for emotional expression, relaxation, social connection, or cognitive stimulation, music has the power to heal and bring people closer to themselves and others. If you’re having a rough day, I encourage you to put on a song that makes you smile. If you’re having trouble processing a big life event or change, I challenge you to make a playlist about it. If you’re feeling stuck in therapy as a clinician or a client, I urge you to incorporate some music.