Music Therapy; The Assisting Power to Manage Disability: A Meta-Synthesis

The purpose of this meta-synthesis is to define and describe music therapy and how music therapy can assist individuals with special needs. Defined by the World Federation of Music Therapy, music therapy is “the use of music and/or its musical elements (sound, rhythm, melody and harmony) by a qualified music therapist, with a client or group, in a process designed to facilitate and promote communication, relationships, learning, mobilization, expression, organization and other relevant therapeutic objectives in order to meet physical, emotional, mental, social and cognitive needs.” (Ueda, et al, 2013). A music therapist is a trained individual who works with people with special needs to help assist them with life difficulties. Music therapy, along with other forms of treatment, can benefit an individual by allowing them the greater advantage of a comprehensive intervention program. The articles discussed in this meta-synthesis address the profession of music therapy and the effect it can have on individuals from birth to adulthood