Music Therapy Services at Hospice of the Good Shepherd

Music Therapy is another part of the comprehensive care that Hospice of the Good Shepherd provides to its patients and their families.

Music therapy is the clinical use of music to address the psychosocial, emotional, physical, cognitive and spiritual needs of those who are well, and those who are suffering from illness. In the hospice setting, music therapy can address the specific and special needs of those diagnosed with a life limiting illness. Any family member or interdisciplinary team member can refer a hospice patient to music therapy. Some reasons a patient may be referred to music therapy include:

• To ease restlessness
• Facilitate comfort
• Caregiver support
• Anticipatory grief
• Difficulty in acceptance
• Musical interest/leisure
• Increase/enhance quality of life
• Unresolved issues
• Emotional/spiritual support

Music therapy provides an environment where the patient and families can express thoughts and feelings in the comfort of their own space and in a therapeutic setting. The music therapist can meet with the patient on a one to one basis or with family members present. Music therapy can provide extra support and meaning to hospice patients lives and their families. If you think you or your loved one would benefit from music therapy please contact Hospice of the Good Shepherd for more information on music therapy...