This comprehensive and groundbreaking book describes the effective use of songwriting in music therapy with a variety of client populations, from children with cancer and adolescents in secondary school to people with traumatic brain injury and mental health problems. The authors explain the specific considerations to bear in mind when working with particular client groups to achieve the best clinical outcomes. All the contributors are experienced music therapy clinicians and researchers. They provide many case examples from clinical practice to illustrate the therapeutic methods being used, together with notated examples of songs produced in therapy. Particular emphasis is placed on how lyrics and music are created, including the theoretical approaches underpinning this process. This practical book will prove indispensable to students, clinical therapists, music therapists, educators, teachers and musicians.

The voice is a powerful instrument in music therapy practice and this anthology of voicework techniques explores everything the practitioner and researcher needs to know in order to bring about successful vocal interventions across a broad range of client groups. Compiling a wealth of international evidence-based practice, this book offers detailed descriptions of clinical methods that are grounded in research. Chapters are grouped into structured and unstructured approaches for use with clients of all ages. Clinical populations covered include neonates, children with autism or developmental disability, individuals with neurological damage including stroke, Parkinson's disease patients, traumatic brain injury, and spinal injury, people with mental illness, medical conditions such as asthma and pain, oncology and palliative care, aged care and dementia. This book will be an invaluable resource for any music therapy student, practitioner or researcher looking to explore the use of voicework in music therapy.

Dementia is the most significant health issue facing our aging population. With no cure to date, there is an urgent need for the development of interventions that can alleviate symptoms of dementia and ensure optimal well-being for people with dementia and their caregivers. There is accumulating evidence that music is a highly effective, non-pharmacological treatment for various symptoms of dementia at all stages of disease progression. In its various forms, music (as a medium for formal therapy or an informal activity) engages widespread brain regions, and in doing so, can promote numerous benefits, including triggering memories, enhancing relationships, affirming a sense of self, facilitating communication, reducing agitation, and alleviating depression and anxiety. This book outlines the current research and understanding of the use of music for people with dementia, from internationally renowned experts in music therapy, music psychology, and clinical neuropsychology.

The value of music therapy in neurological rehabilitation is increasingly recognised and this practical manual provides comprehensive guidance for clinicians on the application of music therapy methods in neurorehabilitation. Felicity Baker and Jeanette Tamplin combine research findings with their own clinical experience and present step-by-step instructions and guidelines on how to implement music therapy techniques for a range of therapeutic needs. Photographs clearly illustrate interventions for physical rehabilitation, for example through the use of musical instruments to encourage targeted movement. The chapter on cognitive rehabilitation includes resources and lists suitable songs for use in immediate memory or abstract thinking tasks, among others. In her chapter on paediatric patients, Jeanette Kennelly demonstrates how procedures can be adapted for working clinically with children. A comprehensive list of terminology commonly used in neurological rehabilitation is also included. Music Therapy Methods in Neurorehabilitation will prove an invaluable reference book for music therapy clinicians and students. It is also suitable for work with other populations, in particular for work in special education.