Do I have to be musical to come to music therapy?
Do I have to be musical to come to music therapy?
I get asked this question a lot.
The answer? Absolutely not.
You do not have to be the slightest bit musical to come to – and deeply benefit from – music therapy.
I’ve worked with people who have never touched an instrument, those who have had years of musical training, and lots of people in between.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve ever touched an instrument or if you can play piano better than I can. What I do care about is your relationship to music.
Why do you care about that?
While my clients’ musical abilities range greatly, one thing they’ve all had in common is a relationship to music.
Music means something to them.
Maybe it calms them down, maybe it brings them joy, helps them sleep, is what they turn to when they’re sad…. The list can go on and on, which speaks volumes to the power of music.
Okay – I have a relationship to music. Now what?
When I first meet with a new client, it’s helpful for us to have some music be part of the session. This can be as simple as sharing a favorite song of yours that we listen to together. I believe that the music you listen to is often deeply connected to who you are– your energy, your internal rhythms, what drives you, what soothes you.
So I’m always curious about what music you listen to – I find it helps me get to know a new client in a different way than you just reciting your entire life story in the first session.
Also, let’s be real – first sessions can bring up some nerves (for both of us!). Listening to music is a way to take a few minutes to pause, breathe, and be together in a different way. Being together in this non-verbal way may be a new experience for you – in your previous therapy experiences or in your life in general.
What if I don’t have a relationship to music?
That’s also okay. You may not have one right now, for any number of reasons. We can explore that too.
Music isn’t always connected to positive memories for everyone – but music therapy can still be a reparative, powerful experience.
Why do you keep talking about relationships?
People come to therapy to explore and change relationships of all kinds.
I believe that your relationship with music can mirror other relationships in your life – especially your relationship with yourself and your inner world.
Music therapy can invite a deeper understanding of your own thoughts, dreams, and feelings. From that place, real change is possible.
Curious about whether music therapy can help you?
Check out my FAQ page, where you can learn more about my New York state therapy practice & schedule your free 20 minute phone consultation.
I look forward to connecting with you soon!
About the Author
Maya is a music therapist & psychotherapist in NYC and online throughout New York State. She specializes in helping women with anxiety, childhood/intergenerational trauma and those who are highly sensitive (HSP) feel good enough, learn how to express their feelings without overwhelm, and show up in calm and confident ways in their work and relationships. Working with a music therapist can help you deepen the mind-body connection & reconnect with your creativity as a way to heal.
If you’re interested in working with Maya, you can learn more here or schedule your free phone consultation here.
You don’t have to stay stuck - it’s time to reclaim your rhythm.