Photo of Michael Andrew Dickman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94925, CA
Michael Andrew Dickman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT , #130825
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Suffering from anxiety, depression, or substance abuse often means unhealthy thought patterns/actions are reinforcing cognitive distortions and destructive behaviors. Anxiety leads to avoidance of situations that potentiate more anxiety, yet fears of triggering stimuli remain active. Depression is constituted by biases towards negative thoughts, and without challenging unfounded beliefs about one's worth or abilities, depression persists. Those abusing alcohol or other drugs cannot participate in life unaided by the numbing effect substances generate. These individuals are stuck, not broken. If motivated, they may all recover.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, or substance abuse often means unhealthy thought patterns/actions are reinforcing cognitive distortions and destructive behaviors. Anxiety leads to avoidance of situations that potentiate more anxiety, yet fears of triggering stimuli remain active. Depression is constituted by biases towards negative thoughts, and without challenging unfounded beliefs about one's worth or abilities, depression persists. Those abusing alcohol or other drugs cannot participate in life unaided by the numbing effect substances generate. These individuals are stuck, not broken. If motivated, they may all recover.
(415) 942-8434 View (415) 942-8434
Photo of Lois Friedlander, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94925, CA
Lois Friedlander
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CGP, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925  (Online Only)
Therapy is not a "one size fits all" approach. I am an integrative psychotherapist with an extensive background in working with mood disorders, dual diagnoses, prosocial behavior management and stress reduction. My approach is based in psychodynamic underpinnings, integrating elements of several schools of therapy to address the emotional, behavioral, psychological, cognitive and spiritual dimensions of my clients. This allows me to design a therapeutic strategy for each client based on their specific areas of concern.
Therapy is not a "one size fits all" approach. I am an integrative psychotherapist with an extensive background in working with mood disorders, dual diagnoses, prosocial behavior management and stress reduction. My approach is based in psychodynamic underpinnings, integrating elements of several schools of therapy to address the emotional, behavioral, psychological, cognitive and spiritual dimensions of my clients. This allows me to design a therapeutic strategy for each client based on their specific areas of concern.
(415) 813-4015 View (415) 813-4015
Photo of Michael J. Mesmer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94925, CA
Michael J. Mesmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Alternatives increase our choices in life. Alternative psychotherapy considers all aspects of living, including work, lifestyle and spiritual practice, as well as thoughts and feelings, in healing our mind, body and spirit.
Alternatives increase our choices in life. Alternative psychotherapy considers all aspects of living, including work, lifestyle and spiritual practice, as well as thoughts and feelings, in healing our mind, body and spirit.
(458) 231-8560 View (458) 231-8560

Music Therapy

How does music therapy work?

A music therapist will begin by assessing the client’s specific needs and getting a sense of their musical ability and interests. Musical training is not required, and clients of all ages can benefit from this type of therapy. The therapist will then make a plan for how to achieve the client’s therapeutic goal(s) using a range of receptive (e.g., listening to a song) and active (e.g., drumming in a group) music therapy techniques.

What are some common music therapy techniques?

Music therapy usually involves listening to music (either live or recorded). Music therapy clients may also make music on popular instruments, such as the piano, guitar, and hand drum, or sing. Sometimes music therapy can include guided imagery. A music therapist may ask clients to improvise on the spot or even compose their own songs. Dancing or moving to music can be an effective intervention to help clients feel more fully grounded in their bodies and remain in the present moment.

How does music therapy help with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Music therapy can be a valuable creative outlet for clients with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who have trouble putting their painful feelings into words. Listening to music can be relaxing while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. In addition to its mood-boosting effects, music therapy can help clients build resilience and overcome PTSD symptoms that may interfere with their daily lives.

How long does music therapy take?

Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes. They can be scheduled in advance (for example, once a week) or can be done on an as-needed basis. Some clients will only require a handful of music therapy sessions to achieve their goals, while others may need months or longer, depending on their specific concern.