The Power of Music Therapy

Music therapy is an evidence-based allied health profession practiced by certified music therapists around the world. However, it is still largely unknown within the general population and underutilised as a form of therapy. The Power of Music Therapy includes inspirational stories of very special individuals whom the author has worked with over the past decade and the many different ways music therapy has positively impacted their lives. It also aims to highlight the reasons why music therapy is so valuable from birth to the end of life, including but not limited to those who are living with neurodiversity, brain injuries, dementia or mental health conditions. It is the author’s hope that this book will provide professional insight and help to shine a light on music therapy–combining research, personal reflections and explanations of proven techniques with real-life stories to provide a small snapshot into the field. This book is for anyone who is interested in discovering more about the power of music therapy, or perhaps is interested in exploring music therapy for themselves or their loved one(s). It could also be for anyone who enjoys music or who simply enjoys reading an inspirational story. For the training music therapist, it may provide a glimpse of what “a day in the life” will 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 Psychiatrist About the Author Gillian 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.