Why Music Psychotherapy is a Somatic Therapy

Nov 3

When you hear the term music psychotherapy, you may think that the therapy process includes solely music. As a music psychotherapist, I understand that music-making and music-listening are inherently embodied experiences. Thus, I support my clients in using movement, breath and connection to the body as important information in the therapy process.

In this blog post, we will explore why music psychotherapy is considered a somatic therapy and how it can support clients in finding increased feeling of internal safety as they heal anxiety and trauma.

Understanding Somatic Therapy

Somatic therapy is a holistic approach to psychotherapy that focuses on the mind-body connection. It recognizes that our physical sensations, movements, and bodily experiences are interconnected with our emotions and psychological well-being.

Somatic therapy aims to help individuals become more aware of their bodily sensations, learn to recognize and release physical tension and emotional stress, and ultimately promote healing and personal growth.

Somatic therapy is based on the idea that past traumas and unresolved emotional issues can be stored in the body, leading to physical and psychological distress. By working with a somatic therapist, individuals can explore and address these issues.

This therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma, as it provides a safe and supportive environment to process and release these traumatic memories.

Somatic therapy is used in various therapeutic contexts, including:

Trauma recovery
Stress management
Addiction treatment
Chronic pain management
Emotional regulation
Personal growth and self-discovery
Childhood attachment and development

Why Music Psychotherapy is Somatic

Music psychotherapy is considered a somatic therapy because it acknowledges and leverages the mind-body connection in the therapeutic process. Several factors contribute to why music psychotherapy falls under the umbrella of somatic therapies, including:

Body-Focused Listening
One of the primary reasons music psychotherapy is considered a somatic therapy is its focus on body-informed listening. When clients engage with music in a therapeutic context, they are encouraged to pay close attention to their bodily sensations and emotional responses.

Music can elicit physical reactions, such as changes in heart rate, muscle tension, or breathing patterns. Through this heightened awareness, individuals can gain insights into their emotional states and begin to process unresolved issues.
Nonverbal Expression
Music offers a unique platform for non-verbal expression. In traditional talk therapy, clients express their thoughts and feelings through words. However, some emotions and experiences are challenging to put into words.

Music psychotherapy allows clients to communicate their innermost thoughts and emotions through the music they create, play, or listen to. This non-verbal communication can be a powerful way to release pent-up emotions and gain a deeper understanding of one's emotional landscape.
Emotional Regulation
Music has the ability to regulate emotions. Therapists can use specific types of music to help clients achieve emotional balance and regulation. For example, soothing and calming music can help reduce anxiety, while more dynamic and rhythmic music can increase energy and motivation. By leveraging the emotional impact of music, music psychotherapists can support clients regulating their emotions; thus, helping them to find more regulation in thier nervous system.
Resonance and Connection
The concept of resonance is integral to somatic therapy. In music psychotherapy, clients often resonate with the music they are engaging with, creating a connection between their inner experiences and the external sound. This resonance can be a very healing experience, allowing clients to explore and express complex emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
Movement and Expression
Music often prompts physical movement and expression. Clients may dance, sing, or play instruments, all of which engage the body as a medium for emotional expression. These physical activities can help individuals release tension, explore their physical boundaries, and reconnect with their bodies in a positive way.

Learn more about the healing power of arts-based psychotherapy →