Music and art therapy at The Source help both the young and old

Music is a powerful way to connect to feelings and to relax Warwick - ”When we look at the body of evidence that the arts contribute to our society, it’s absolutely astounding. Music therapists are breaking down the walls of silence and affliction of autism, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.” So said Michael Greene, president and CEO of National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences at the 1997 Grammy awards. Certified Music Therapist Melinda M. Burgard, M.A., agrees - and she should know. Since 1987, Burgard has been using music as a therapeutic tool for the elderly in their homes, assisted living facilities and nursing homes.  For people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, music, especially familiar songs, can unlock memories. Participation in music improves communication and can assist in overcoming withdrawal.  For individuals with acute and chronic pain, music therapy provides relief, induces relaxation and decreases anxiety.  Music also is a powerful way for connecting to feelings, expressing thoughts and overcoming isolation for a person suffering from depression.  “You don’t have to know how to play an instrument or read music to be a participant in music therapy,” said Burgard. “All one needs is an inclination to enjoy music and a need for therapeutic improvement.” Burgard also holds a music therapy group for children ages four through eight on the Autism Spectrum. Her main goals in that group are to increase socialization skills, speech, self-expression and self-esteem.  She also is proud to be in her 10th year of offering parent/child music classes for ages infant to four years old in the Warwick community. Art and music go hand in hand. As with music, art and healing have always been connected, too. Now neurophysiologists are saying that art, prayer and healing all come from the same source in the body. Judith Duboff is a certified art therapist. She offers art therapy through The Source of the Healing Arts in Warwick. “Art breaks through the fear that people experience when they are having difficulties and opens a space for joy to enter,” said Duboff. “This then frees the immune system so it can relieve pain, heal depression and lift the spirit. The creative force takes a person into a sacred space where one can gain a new perspective on the situation.” An artist/therapist understands the symbolic language of artwork and can provide a safe place for a person to express him or herself artistically and process the results. Art used for healing is a very powerful way to access deep insight into oneself - it is helpful to have support in this, Duboff added. Art therapy works well with many of the other programs at The Source. Art therapy sessions have been included in the cancer support group. There will be art therapy in many of the upcoming programs as well, including trauma and wellness. Art therapy workshops are also being planned. The Source of the Healing Arts, located on West Street in Warwick, is an integrative health programming combining 13 different modalities that work with traditional medical practices. Integrative health care focuses on healing, not the disease. Started about two years ago by psychotherapist Barbara Priestner-Werte, The Source of the Healing Arts Integrative Oncology Program is recognized by the American Cancer Society. Many of its services are covered by insurance. To learn more about The Source of the Healing Arts, call 986-1977 or check the Web site at www.sourceofhealingarts.com.