Music therapists create a safe, inviting environment where patients and families can relax, have fun, express themselves and explore their thoughts and feelings through music. Our highly-trained music therapists work with your child’s treatment team to provide the best possible care.
Part of that care may include music therapy designed specifically for each child’s needs. The Riley Cheer Guild Music Therapy Program is generously funded by the Riley Cheer Guild.
Board certified music therapists carry the MT-BC designation after their name. They have completed a degree in music therapy, a six-month internship and have passed a national examination administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. Some music therapists continue their education in master’s degrees and doctoral programs in music therapy or a related field.
Music therapy interventions may include:
Music therapy goals can benefit children in the following ways:
American Music Therapy Association. This association for credentialed music therapists has information about the benefits using music as an intervention for better health.
American Psychological Association. This association for psychologists, researchers and clinicians explains the therapeutic effects of music.
Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health
705 Riley Hospital Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46202
317.944.5000
Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health North Hospital
1700 N. Meridian Street
Carmel, IN 46032
317.688.2000
Physicians, healthcare providers or family members can contact the music therapy staff by emailing rileymusictherapy@iuhealth.org.
Researchers at the Indiana University School of Nursing explore the effects of music and art on children and young adults who are receiving end-of-life palliative care. They also study families with children recovering from cancer to better understand factors that influence their resiliency.
The Child Life and Creative Arts Therapies Department at Riley at IU Health offers occasional internship opportunities and career education for students who are interested in child life, music therapy or art therapy. If you are interested in learning more about related education, check this page for updates about internships and scheduled educational events or send us an email at rileymusictherapy@iuhealth.org.
