Exploring a Neuroplasticity Model of Music Therapy

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Roy Joyner, one of our therapists, shared a very interesting music therapy research article with the team. It was written and conducted by Elizabeth L. Stegemoller, PhD, MT-BC, a therapist from Iowa State University. This article offers a very intriguing proposal that music therapy may be a powerful tool in the remapping process of the brain known as neuroplasticity.  

Neuroplasticity, quite simply, is the ability of neurons in the brain to make new connections or prune away other connections with other neurons. In addtion, there is evidence to support that, when stimulated, neurons can remap entire regions of the brain itself. As the article continues, it highlights the importance of remembering that music therapists have the tools to influence the brain neuroplasticity throughout a lifespan. 
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The article also highlights three different principles and how music is able to assist in neurological processes, especially when implemented by a qualified music therapist. To read more about these principles, the article can be found in the Journal of Music Therapy, 51(3), 2014, 211–227.