Technology such as computers and electronic instruments are easily dismissed with music therapist; but with good intention. You see, music therapist focus on the interpersonal relationships built while providing therapeutic intervention. There are a select few that utilize comprehensive technology allowing various populations immediate feedback. Music Therapists also work with medical devices appropriate for the clients’ diagnosis.
The technology I am referring to are iPods or MP3 players. Music Therapist value the true person to person interaction and feedback vs an electronic sound; however, I find that iPods are just now seeming to be an appropriate option for music therapists. Please understand that I am referring to iPod use instead of CDs and not to replace other direct care such as creating, playing instruments, and other specific uses of music therapy. I have used an iPod for as long as I have owned one. Before receiving an iPod as a gift, I would often be carrying various instruments (large and small), various other tools such as puppets or scarves, oxygen tubes, and a cd player with cds. Time would be spent switching cds around to adapt to the clients’ moods or objectives for the session. With an iPod and stand, I simply set up my playlist according to clients’ likes, populations of clients such as early childhood or geriatric, rhythm and melodic sounds, or specific goals. The first time I utilized my iPod with a client, I remember having so much extra time that we were able to spend more time “working.” So, a music therapist’s fear of technology taking time from direct care is dismissed. At least mine was. I now have more time with direct care and enjoy the moments along with my clients.
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