All You Need Is Love… And Music Therapy

How will the proceeds from this music therapy event help Gilchrist’s program?

Many people are not aware that music therapy does not receive direct reimbursement for services provided. The program relies solely on generous donations received through special grants and private gifts. As one family member shared, “I couldn’t imagine hospice without music therapy.” All the proceeds from these special events help continue funding the necessary work of our music therapy team in providing comfort, support and joy to our patients and families through music.

The work of music therapy is 100% funded through the generosity of our donors. Through the generosity of our donors and the support of Gilchrist, the Music Therapy program has grown over the years to three full-time board-certified music therapists and made a huge difference to our patients and families.

What is music therapy?

Individuals with life-limiting illnesses can often benefit from creative art therapies. These therapies are designed to ease discomfort, improve communication and provide an outlet for expression. Quality of life can be improved with music therapy, combined with the medical attention of the hospice team. In addition, symptoms and addressing needs related to the end of life are addressed.

Our therapists offer evidence-based clinical use of musical interventions to improve clients’ quality of life.  At Gilchrist Hospice Care, a board certified music therapist (MT-BC) will listen, perform, write and record music.  These services are an effort to meet the social, emotional, physical, spiritual and cognitive needs of the individual and family.