Music Therapy For Chronic Pain
What is Music Therapy?
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Music Therapy is a research-informed, clinical practice that uses music to support physical, emotional, cognitive, and social wellbeing. Within the context of chronic pain, music therapy does not focus solely on reducing pain but works holistically to support engagement in meaningful life activities, emotional regulation, and a sense of control and agency.
Through active and receptive music experiences—including songwriting, music listening, vocal work, improvisation, and rhythmic entrainment—music therapy can help individuals explore and express emotions, manage stress, shift pain perception, and reconnect with personal strengths. Music therapy addresses each client’s unique needs, goals, and capacity for change, integrating biopsychosocial principles into an individualised approach.
By supporting nervous system regulation, emotional processing, and motivation, music therapy helps people living with persistent pain re-engage with their identity, creativity, and sense of hope.
What is Music Therapy at Evolving Pain?
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At Evolving Pain, music therapy is offered both individually and in a supportive group format. The service is grounded in current pain neuroscience and trauma-informed care, and includes:
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Initial Music Therapy Assessment and Goal Planning
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Individual Music Therapy Sessions (in-person)
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Hybrid Group Music Therapy (in-person & online, Monday evenings)
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Guided Music Listening for Nervous System Regulation
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Vocal Interventions to Support Breath, Voice, and Expression
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Songwriting and Lyric Exploration for processing and meaning-making
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Music and Imagery Techniques
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Rhythmic and Motor Activities to Support Functional Movement
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Mindfulness and Music Practices
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Co-regulation and Connection through Shared Music-Making
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Support with Sleep, Energy Pacing, and Emotional Resilience through Music
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Collaborative Care Integration with Other Disciplines
All music therapy sessions are tailored to the needs and preferences of each participant—no musical experience is necessary.
