Music therapy is an evidence-based allied health profession practiced by certified music therapists around the world. However, many people are not aware of the field or the benefits.The Power of Music Therapy tells the stories of very special individuals helped through music therapy from the author’s experiences of working in the field over the past decade. It aims to explain the reasons why music therapy is so beneficial from birth to the end of life, including for those with brain injuries, dementia, neurodiversity or mental health disorders, to name a few. It is the author’s hope that this book will help to spread the word about the field to those who don’t know about it, combining research and personal reflections with real life stories to provide a small snapshot into the profession.This book is for anyone who enjoys music, is interested in discovering more about the power of music therapy and how it can benefit others, perhaps interested in exploring music therapy for themselves or their loved one(s) or simply for anyone who enjoys reading inspiring stories. For the training music therapist, I hope this helps to see what ‘a day in the life’ might be like for you!
“This is a thoroughly researched book offering a fascinating insight into the benefits of music therapy for all those who are interested in how it works” Dr Victoria Brown, Consultant PsychiatristAbout the AuthorGillian Cunnison, MA, MT-BC, NMT-F, NICU MT, DipABRSM is a board-certified music therapist originally from Scotland and has spent the past decade working in many different settings across the USA including children’s hospitals, an acute rehabilitation hospital, schools, memory care facilities, outpatient clinics and private practices. She has also worked as a practicum supervisor and adjunct professor at Queens University of Charlotte.She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Glasgow (2009) and a Master of Science in Music Therapy from Queen Margaret University (2013). She is a Fellow of the Academy for Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT-F) and is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS). She holds additional certifications in DIRFloortime, NICU Music Therapy from the National Institute for Infant & Child Medical Music Therapy and a Diploma in Percussion Performance from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. She served for two years as an Associate Editor for the Music Therapy Clinician and on the New Jersey State Task Force. Gillian has played in various bands, orchestras and ensembles around the world including in the UK, US, Australia, Europe and South America. She is also an avid composer and has had original works performed by ensembles internationally.Gillian is the owner and founder of Telemed Music, providing music therapy sessions and adaptive lessons. Visit www.telemedmusic.com for more information.In her spare time she loves to travel, be outdoors and spend time with friends and family. Gillian loves sharing the power of music therapy with others and is very excited to have published her first book.
A great introduction to the music therapy profession and it's benefits. I particularly loved reading the author's personal experiences with patients described in each of the chapters!
“The Power of Music Therapy” by Gillian Cunnison is just that - powerful and insightful. I received an advanced copy and was in awe while reading it. Gillian speaks with wisdom and clarity on the subject while also providing real examples of individuals who have been shaped by the healing power of music therapy. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who works as a counselor, speech therapist, occupational therapist or anyone in the helping professions. There are so many ties to nurturing and helping others through music! As a mental health counselor this book was incredibly helpful to see how collaboration can take place to the benefit of our clients and patients. Do not delay! This book will bring power into your work and your life. Thank you Gillian for sharing an advanced copy. Your work is so beautiful.
A moving tribute to the powerful impact Music Therapy can have in a variety of clinical settings. Interwoven with personal anecdotes it beautifully encapsulates the important work carried out by Music Therapists. Highly recommend it!
A neat and beautifully written collection of work. The case Gillian has included along with the balance of terminology is a masterclass in professionalism. Very inspiring stuff!