It's a pleasure having you here today. Can we begin by telling everyone a little bit about your background and area of expertise. Yes, I'm a Board Certified Music Therapist who has practiced in the field for 30 years. I have worked with a number of different types of clients, and most recently with the development of wellness programs. I am the director of music therapy at the University of Kansas and a Research Associate at the Colmery-O'Neil Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Topeka.
Music therapy is the application of music to change behaviors or conditions.
It is different for each person depending upon need, and referral information. Persons respond to music if it is important to them, and it is music that is appropriate. I think we have to be certain that music can influence physical, psychological and social responses. It is important to know that music does not heal, but the application of music can remediate certain responses or reactions. This is the music to which they are most likely to make the strongest response.