Music as a Global Resource: - International Council for Caring ...

SECTION:
Music for Mental and Physical Health
COUNTRY:
Chile
PROJECT:
MUSIC THERAPY WITH WOMEN IN A COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER
DESCRIPTION:
In 2006, the Barnechea Health Center in the city of Santiago offered for the first time, music therapy
groups in a community-based initiative. Its beneficiaries were low-income women, with limited formal
education, ranging in ages between 35 and 70.The objectives of the group were to overcome depression,
panic attacks, adjustment disorders, family violence and other posttraumatic stress reactions experienced
by survivors of the recent Chilean earthquake.
Music played a key role in the therapeutic process through free improvisations, the use of familiar songs
and melodies, and music and relaxation techniques. Stringed, percussion, and wind instruments were
used. These simple instruments were easy to use and allowed clients, without previous knowledge of
music, to play them. The goal was to promote an understanding of the disturbing inner emotions of these
women by finding ways to channel them creatively.
CURRENT STATUS:
A follow-up study was done after the conclusion of the first music therapy group that ended in 2009. The
women have continued to meet twice a month on their own. This group has become a self-help group,
providing the women with a social network, solidarity and relief in difficult times. They have continued to
increase their knowledge of various topics by researching areas of interest and then making presentations
to their peers.
As a result of this project, two other music therapy initiatives have been started designed to help sensitize
health care workers, physiotherapists and support staff who serve the public. The goal is to develop
improved self-care techniques as well as outlets for their work related stress through music.
RESEARCH AND EVALUATION:
Through questionnaires collected at the beginning of the music therapy treatment and then at the end of
twelve sessions, client response was evaluated. It was reported that the clients perceived these music
therapy groups as an important improvement in their quality of life, increased self-esteem, decreased
levels of anxiety, and improved development of creativity and self-care. These reports also found that the
social interaction promoted by the music therapy groups was an effective way to overcome loneliness and
to increase tolerance for frustration.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Organization: Barnechea Health Center
Address: Centro de Salud – COSAM, Municipalidad de Lo Barnechea, Chile
Phone: (562)-7573381
Contact Person: Paulina Cortes, Music Therapist
E-mail: pcg@movistar.cl
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