I recently received a card from a family, thanking me for performing at their loved one’s memorial service; as well as for providing music therapy services to them. They wrote “Your ability to pick the correct songs was amazing. Your willingness to just to with the flow was also appreciated.”

I was touched by these statements, because this, THIS, is what makes a music therapy session different than music entertainment, music volunteers, and bedside musicians. It wasn’t just me doing these things–my ability to pick songs and go with the flow flourished from my relationship with the patient/family, and what I assessed was needed in the moment. 

Each time I saw the patient, I checked in with emotions, feelings, and perceptions. Music is then chosen based on where the person and family is in the moment. We might play a song for reminiscence, or a song with a certain theme to explore feelings deeper. The flow I follow comes from my patients/families. They lead each session, and as our relationship develops, this leads the music therapy process.

Sometimes it’s just me singing and playing. Sometimes, the patients/families sing, and there are also amazing moments where we all make music together. No matter the music process, something happens in the room–and that something is connection, trust, release, comfort, and peace. Our music relationship guides the flow, guides the songs, and gives us the therapy that brings what the patient/family needs in the moment. 

So I say “You’re welcome”, but really, thank you too.