What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is still an emerging field in Malaysia, and many people are still unfamiliar with its benefits, applications, what it really is, or how it can help. However, did you know that music therapy has been around in Malaysia for over 35 years?

Whenever I share that I am a Music Therapist, I am often met with a mix of curiosity. The conversation inevitably leads to the question: "So, what exactly is music therapy?"

Let's explore this together. Before we dive into it, let’s start with a quick true or false game to see what you already know about music therapy in Malaysia. Ready? Let’s begin! 

1️⃣ Music therapy is just about listening to relaxing music.

➡ False – It's much more! Music therapy involves creative, active engagement with music between the Music Therapist and client, including singing, playing instruments, improvisation, and songwriting, tailored to each individual's needs.

2️⃣ Only children with special needs can benefit from music therapy.

➡ False – Music therapy supports people of all ages - from children in early years to adults - including those with learning needs, mental health needs, neurological conditions, developmental needs, and individuals seeking emotional or physical rehabilitation.

3️⃣ There are professionally trained and certified Music Therapists in Malaysia.

➡ True – Malaysia has a growing community of certified Music Therapists, supported by organisations such as the Music Therapists’ Association of Malaysia (MMTA), which advocates for the profession, provides resources for practitioners, and offers services for the community.

4️⃣ Music Therapy is not based on scientific research or clinical practice.

➡ False – Music therapy is an evidence-based healthcare profession and practice, backed by neuroscience, psychology, and medical research. It is widely used in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centres, and mental health settings worldwide.

5️⃣ Music Therapy can help improve communication, motor skills, and emotional well-being.

➡ True – Studies on music therapy has shown to enhance communication for individuals with speech and language needs, improve motor coordination (including in rehabilitation), and support emotional regulation and mental health.

So, What is Music Therapy?

Music Therapy is a clinical and evidence-based practice where trained therapists use music interventions within a therapeutic relationship to support individuals in achieving their personalised goals. It's not about becoming a good singer or musician - it's about using music as a tool for growth, healing, and connection. It is a powerful form of therapy that addresses physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs through the intentional use of music.

In music therapy sessions, clients actively engage in a variety of musical activities, including:

• Active music-making – Playing instruments or singing to promote self-expression, coordination, and emotional release.

• Listening and reflection – Using familiar or calming music to evoke memories, reduce stress, or encourage emotional processing.

• Improvisation – Spontaneous music-making that allows for creative exploration and self-discovery.

• Songwriting – Composing original songs, offering a meaningful way to express emotions, tell personal stories, or process experiences.

• Music technology – Incorporating tools such as recording software or digital instruments to enhance creative expression and accessibility.

A Professional and Evidence-Based Practice

As a HCPC registered Music Therapist, I am trained in various therapeutic interventions and techniques, including Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT), a specialised approach which focuses on using music to address neurological functions and conditions. This includes skills that help improve motor skills, speech, emotional regulation, and mental well-being through structured, goal-oriented music activities.

Professional Memberships and Standards

I am proud to be a member of both the British Association for Music Therapy (BAMT) and the Music Therapists' Association of Malaysia (MMTA):

• BAMT is the professional body for music therapists in the United Kingdom. It promotes the highest standards of practice, education, and research in the field of music therapy. To learn more, visit their website.

• MMTA supports music therapists in Malaysia and advocates for the growth of the profession in the region. Their work promotes public awareness of music therapy and offers professional development opportunities. You can learn more about MMTA by visiting their website.

Music as a Transformative Tool

Music therapy is not limited to hospitals or for children with special needs or medical conditions; it can benefit anyone, from all walks of life, seeking support. Whether it's a child learning to communicate, a teenager processing emotions, or an adult in rehabilitation, music provides a safe, creative, naturally motivating, and meaningful space for growth and healing.

So the next time you think of music as "just entertainment," remember: in the right hands, music can also be therapy, medicine, and transformation.