Riley Music Therapy

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What is Music Therapy?

Riley music therapists are a part of the hospital’s care team and work closely with doctors, nurses and other therapists to develop treatment plans specially designed to meet individual and group goals. We understand hospitalization can be a difficult time and we’re here to partner with you to determine your goals for music therapy.

At Riley, music therapy can support a variety of goals such as:

  • Managing pain and encouraging relaxation

  • Reducing stress and managing anxiety

  • Rebuilding physical skills such as walking and talking

  • Building resilience and developing healthy coping

  • Creating moments of meaning while in the hospital

  • Supporting family bonding

Because no two people are the same, our therapists thoughtfully assess individual needs and work with you to determine what interventions are best suited for you.

A session might include:

  • Listening to music that is designed to help your body relax

  • Writing songs and finding lyrics that connect with you

  • Learning a new instrument

  • Recording music and your voice

  • Using rhythm to encourage movement

  • Playing music that enriches your development

  • Making music as a family

Music Therapy Staff

Our board-certified music therapists are highly trained professionals. They have completed degrees in music therapy, over 1,200 clinical hours, and passed a national exam administered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists. Riley music therapists have completed specialized trainings to work with pediatric and maternal populations in order to provide the best care designed for you and your family.

Learn more about pediatric music therapy

Get Involved

Volunteer with the Riley Arts in Health Program! The mission of this program is to enrich the healing environment at Riley Children’s Health through the transformative power of the arts. By bringing music, visual arts, dance, and live performances into the hospital, we foster moments of joy, connection, and creativity for children, families, and team members, nurturing the spirit and celebrating resilience.

Performers may perform once per year as a special event or volunteer more frequently as a musician performer volunteer. Start by clicking the link below.

Apply to perform at Riley

Contact

RileyMusicTherapy@iuhealth.org

(317) 944-1146