07/25/2020
Here are a few reviews from my book released on June 25, 2020.
"I can testify -- this is a terrific book. Hits all my favorite notes: practical, clearly written , and based on years of clinical practice. Plus, every 10 pages or so, there's a WOW moment where you [Kelly] put words to something the reader has been trying to articulate for years" Betsey King, Music Therapy Professor, Nazareth College
It’s so down-to-earth that though I know nothing about music therapy, I was immediately drawn in. It flows beautifully, and the anecdote about your interview establishes the book’s informative nature yet thread of warm humility that’s so welcoming. I feel like I’ve learned a lot already, stepping into that world. Harriet Goman, Editor and Journalist
"Use of Voice in Music Therapy," by Kelly Meashey, provides hands-on methods for how to sing with clients. With step-by-step instructions for working with any population (verbal or non-verbal), it includes scripts for introducing techniques, original music to give creative direction, as well as a large list of song material. Mini case examples throughout will further inspire therapists to introduce various singing methods with clients.
The methods are organized under goal areas such as: Stress Reduction, Self-expression, Social Interaction, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Skills, Support for Emotional and Physical Pain, etc. It includes a Toolbox section describing each technique so they can be shifted and used under any goal. There is also research to legitimize and support the therapist’s understanding of the effectiveness of therapeutic singing as well as bolster confidence when utilizing methods. Basic vocal exercises, improvisation exercises, exercises to develop one’s vocal identity, and exercises which encourage self-awareness are provided in the Therapist Training section as well as ethical considerations of singing with clients.
An excellent resource for educators to use in teaching music therapy methodology, and music therapy voice, Use of Voice in Music Therapy is also useful for clinicians of all levels who wish to re-connect with singing and who are looking to renew creativity in clinical practice. Voice teachers and vocalists may find helpful ideas.
CONTENTS
Chapter 1: Introduction/Experiential Introduction
The Voice in Human Development
The Voice in Adulthood
The Voice in Music Therapy
Therapeutic Benefits of Singing
PART ONE — Therapist Training
Chapter 2: Using the Musical Elements
Chapter 3: Exploring Your Own Vocal Range/Limits
Basic Vocal Technique Exercises
Chapter 4: Improvisation
Chapter 5: Simplifying the Voice When Working with Clients
Chapter 6: Vocal Identity and Self-Expression
PART TWO — Working with Clients
Chapter 7: Ethics of Self-Awareness for Vocalists
Chapter 8: Methods for Awareness of Therapist/ Client Dynamics
Chapter 9: Goal Areas and Methods
Establishing Safety
Levels of Utilizing Methods
Chapter 10: Maintaining Goals as the Focus
Grounding/Empowerment
Toning
Call-and-Response
Songs of Empowerment
Singing and Rhythm
The Blues
Final Thoughts
Chapter 11: Sense of Unity (Group Cohesion/ Individual Connection)
Singing Songs in Unison
Singing Harmony
Singing Fun, Silly Songs
Vowels
Chapter 12: Stress Reduction/Relaxation
Vocal Exercises
Chant
Singing and Imagery
Singing and Mandala
Chapter 13: Cognitive Behavior, Rational Thinking, and Emotional Regulation
Singing Songs for Core Beliefs
Simple Lyric Writing
Songwriting
Mindful Singing
Singing with Bilateral Stimulation and Grounding Techniques
Chapter 14: Self-Expression and Communication
Listening
Dialogue
Dialogue with Nonverbal Clients
Dialogue with Verbal Clients
Fill-Ins and One-Word Phrases
Dynamics and Tempo
Singing Songs
Short Songs
Singing Songs and Planned Dynamics
Singing Songs at Different Tempos
Sharing Songs, Receptive to Singing
Sharing Songs in Individual Sessions
Sharing Songs in a Group
Receptive Listening and Mandala
Singing for Clients
Chapter 15: Support for Emotional Pain
Toning
Singing Songs
Vocal Improvisation
Songwriting with a Goal of Singing
Vocal Psychotherapy
Chapter 16: Support for Physical Pain
Toning
Singing for Entrainment
Songwriting and Singing
Singing Songs
Chapter 17: Social Interaction and Relationship-Building
Sing-Alongs
Client’s Choice
Fill-Ins
Call-and-Response
Tempo and Dynamic Changes
Silly Songs
Songs to Promote Functional Skills
Singing to Promote Social Skills
Chapter 18: Cognitive Development
Singing for Reminiscing
Singing for Label and Object Recognition
Melodic Intonation Therapy
Chapter 19: Physical Development
Vocal Exercises for Speech Articulation
Monotone and Arrhythmic Speaking
Singing for Diaphragmatic Strength, Lung Capacity, and Fluid Speech
Chapter 20: Psychotherapy
Training Requirements
Grieving
Healing Deep Wounds
Transpersonal Experiences
Chapter 21: Toolbox
Call-and-Response
Chant
Dialogue
Dynamics and Tempo
Fill-Ins and One-Word Phrases
Listening
Lyric Writing
Receptive Methods
Sing-Alongs
Singing and Imagery
Singing and Mandala
Singing for Entrainment
Singing in Harmony
Singing Lighthearted Fun, Joyful, and Silly Songs
Singing Songs in Unison
Songwriting
Toning
Vocal Exercises
Vocal Improvisation
Chapter 22: Conclusion
Appendix: Lisa Sokolov Duet Games
Song Resources
References
Index
