Music therapy improves quality of life

To help improve quality of life and address the physical or emotional needs of patients, Hope Children's Hospital now offers music therapy. "The therapy can be used for pain management, anxiety, developmental issues, expression of feelings, coping skills, communication skills and procedural support," said Julie Przeslicke, Hope's music therapist. "Family members can also participate when appropriate to prepare for adapting to home life or coping with chronic illness." The techniques used by the music therapist-whose position was initially funded through charitable gifts-are adapted to meet the individual needs of the child. Music therapy can also be paired with other therapies such as occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy to reinforce goals and objectives.