Music Therapy

Reviews outside sickle cell disease have found music therapy effective for stress, pain intensity, anxiety, and depression. Music therapy is a clinical, evidence-based use of music interventions within a therapeutic relationship delivered by a credentialed professional. Virtual music therapy had not previously been investigated in people with sickle cell disease. The music therapy intervention includes six sessions that teach music-based breathing, relaxation, imagery, active music making, and coping planning. Music therapy is being studied for sickle cell disease because it is person-centered, non-pharmacologic, adaptable, and relevant to chronic pain outcomes.