Bereavement

Goals and Methodologies

by Heather Evanson - May 9, 2000

Problem Areas for Clients

Anxiety
Fear of Death
Uncertainty
Low Self-esteem
Self Absorption
Depression
Financial and Family Worries
Anticipation of Pain
Loneliness
Anger

Music therapy goals for targeting these problem areas

Relaxation
Distraction from Pain
Anxiety Reduction
Life Review
Expression of Feelings
Open Lines of Communication
Family Acceptance of Death
Processing Feelings at Comfortable Pace
Creating Positive Mood
Anger Management
Reminiscence
Promoting Comfort

Music Therapy methods used for treatment

Lyric Substitution
Song Writing
Playing/Singing Familiar Song
Playing/Discussing Songs with Distinctive Lyrics
Family Music Therapy Session
Listening to Live Performance
Improvisational Drumming
Interpretive Sign Language
Interpretive Dance
Musical Puppet Play/Drama