Traditional Music Therapy

Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions delivered by a credentialed professional. Approaches include receptive (listening, guided imagery with music), active (singing, instrument playing), improvisational, compositional and re-creative methods. The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) and Nordoff-Robbins improvisational therapy are well-known frameworks.

Mechanisms involve neuromodulation of limbic and autonomic systems, dopaminergic reward circuit activation, entrainment of motor pathways (rhythmic auditory stimulation in stroke, Parkinson disease) and engagement of memory networks intact in dementia. Effects include reduced pain perception, lowered cortisol, decreased anxiety and improved mood, communication and motor function.

Indications with strong evidence include dementia (especially behavioral and psychological symptoms), depression, chronic pain, perioperative anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injury, end-of-life palliative care and neonatal intensive care. In Turkey, traditional makam-based music therapy (e.g., neva, hicaz, rast) is recognized within the Ministry of Health's traditional and complementary medicine framework.