Addiction is a difficult battle to face, but you don’t have to do it alone. There are many different types of addiction treatment available, and music therapy is one of them. Music therapy services can help manage addiction in a variety of ways and offer many benefits.
At Northpoint Seattle, we develop custom treatment programs that address each client’s unique needs. Our multidisciplinary team will work with you to create a plan that may include a music therapy program as well as other effective treatment modalities. Don’t wait to turn your life around. Call 888.483.6031 or contact us online using our simple form to find out how we can help you build the foundation for a better tomorrow.
What Is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship. Basically, this means that music therapists use music to achieve therapeutic goals with patients who are struggling with a variety of issues, including addiction.
Music therapy is provided by trained and certified music therapists. It is often an outpatient service, which means that you can continue to live at home and go to school or work while receiving treatment.
How Music Therapy Helps
Music therapy services can help manage addiction in a number of ways. Music therapy can be used to address a variety of physical, emotional, mental, and social needs of patients. For example, music therapy can be used to:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve communication and social skills
- Manage symptoms of withdrawal
- Provide outlets for expression
- Promote relaxation
- Build self-esteem
Types of Music Therapy Services
There are many different types of music therapy, and the type that’s right for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. Some of the most common types of music therapy include:
- Guided imagery and music (GIM) – GIM uses both music and imagery to help patients relax and achieve their treatment goals.
- Songwriting – Songwriting is a type of music therapy that allows patients to express themselves through song individually or in groups.
- Live music performance – Live music performance is a type of music therapy that involves playing live music for patients.
- Receptive music therapy – Receptive music therapy is a type of music therapy that involves listening to music with or without headphones.
Different people will benefit from different types of music therapy, so it’s important to work with a qualified music therapist to find the right type of therapy for you.
Benefits of Music Therapy for Addiction
There are many benefits of music therapy for addiction, both for the patient and the family. Some of the most common benefits include:
- Improved mental health – Patients who receive music therapy treatment have been shown to have improved mental health overall. This includes reduced anxiety, depression, and stress.
- Improved physical health – Music therapy has been shown to improve physical health by reducing blood pressure, heart rate, and levels of cortisol (a stress hormone). It can also boost immunity.
- Strengthened relationships – One of the most difficult aspects of addiction is the damage it does to relationships with family and friends. Music therapy treatment can help repair these relationships by providing an outlet for communication and expression. It can also build trust and promote bonding.
Start Recovering at Northpoint Seattle
Northpoint Seattle offers comprehensive outpatient treatment for addiction in Seattle, WA. We offer various therapies, including music therapy services, to help our patients in their recovery journeys. If you’re struggling with addiction, we encourage you to call us today at 888.483.6031 to learn more about our program and how we can help you on the road to recovery.