MUSIC THERAPY FOR EPILEPSY

We have partnered with Epilepsy Wellness Advocates to provide six weeks of individual music therapy sessions to individuals with epilepsy who are at least 12 years of age. Because of the promising research on music therapy’s ability to reduce seizure frequency, the Charles L. Shor Foundation has chosen to fund these sessions, making them completely free to the participants for a period of six weeks. After that time, participants are not required to remain in our program. If participants are interested in continuing sessions past the 6 week program, we have options for individual or group sessions to work with a variety of different budgets. 

• Providing high quality therapy services to help people in our community improve, grow, and heal
• Hiring exceptional, board-certified clinicians with experience in both medical and mental health settings
• Serving people with epilepsy as well as their caregivers and the epilepsy community at large
• Providing free, individual music therapy sessions to ages 12+ with epilepsy through a grant funded by the Charles L. Shor Foundation, in partnership with Epilepsy Wellness Advocates. 

• An evidence-based use of music used in a holistic, creative approach to treatment 
• An individualized service tailored to specific needs, treatment goals, and music preferences
• Administered by a credentialed professional (American Music Therapy Association, 2005)

• Enhanced wellness and quality of life
• Increased self-expression, socialization, and coping skills
• Improved mood and relaxation
• Decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression

Research has found higher levels of brain activity in participants listening to music. In those with epilepsy, music can synchronize brain wave activity more so than in people without epilepsy (APA, 2015). There are now several studies that confirm music therapy can be effective at reducing seizures and epileftiform discharges. While current methods of treatment for epilepsy include medication and surgical treatment, music therapy can serve as a complementary treatment that might be beneficial (Liao et al., 2015).

Neurological diseases, such as epilepsy, can be associated with increased symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research demonstrates that music therapy can help promote recovery from these conditions, while improving socialization, motivation, and mood (Raglio et al., 2015).

• Meeting with a board-certified music therapist who builds trust and safety while getting to know you and your music preferences
• Using music in different ways to work towards specific goals, like experiencing relaxation, strengthening coping skills, or expressing emotions 
• Participating in music-based activities at your comfort level. These could include but are not limited to: listening to live or recorded music, discussing song lyrics, singing, playing instruments, music-focused relaxation, or writing songs 
• Answering a few questions about whether or not music therapy is helping you feel better