This course will be delivered by Dr Corene Thaut, Program Director and primary faculty and co-founder of the Academy training programs and Dr Michael H. Thaut, founding Faculty Member of the Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy and currently Professor of Music with cross appointments in Neuroscience and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Toronto.

The training is open to music therapists, allied health professionals, rehabilitation and neurologic professionals, and students who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of neurologic music therapy (NMT) and music therapists interested in utilizing NMT methodology and techniques.

Neurologic Music Therapy is defined as the therapeutic application of music to cognitive, sensory, and motor function due to neurologic disease of the human nervous system. Neurologic Music Therapy is research-based. Its treatment techniques are based on the scientific knowledge in music perception and production and the effects thereof on nonmusical brain and behavior functions. Populations served by Neurologic Music Therapists include, but are not limited to: stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease, cerebral palsy, developmental disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and other neurological diseases affecting cognition, movement, and communication (e.g., MS, Muscular Dystrophy, etc). The 4-day, 30-hour workshop will provide therapists with advanced clinical training and scientific knowledge in the field of NMT. Upon completion of this course, participants will:

  • Be able to demonstrate a basic definition and introductory knowledge about neurologic music therapy (NMT), including the taxonomy of techniques used in NMT;
  • Demonstrate an increased knowledge of current research supporting NMT techniques;
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of the Transformational Design Model; a model to assist in treatment selection based on functional goals;
  • Identify current clinical assessments that can be used by NMT’s for treatment evaluation;
  • Be able to answer basic neuroanatomy and pathology questions related to a variety of neurologic disorders.

Upon successful completion of this course and a written test, a certificate of completion in advanced Neurologic Music Therapy training will be issued by the Robert F. Unkefer Academy for Neurologic Music Therapy. Completion of the NMT training allows the board-certified music therapist to practice and use the credential of NMT for three years. This training is open to other students and professionals outside of the field of music therapy, however, completion of the NMT training does NOT allow one to practice outside their professional licensure-training-certification. There are no required prerequisites to take this training.

Training will begin at 8:30 am on Friday 22 September 2017 and end at lunctime on Monday 25 September 2017. Please note that completion of the training in its entirety is required to gain the NMT credential and certificate.

 

COURSE CURRICULUM

  • Scientific Foundations of NMT
  • Neuropathology/ Disease Review
  • Sensorimotor Techniques:
    • Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation
    • Pattern Sensory Enhancement
    • Therapeutic Instrumental Playing
  • Speech Techniques:
    • Melodic Intonation Therapy
    • Musical Speech Stimulation
    • Rhythmic Speech Cueing
    • Vocal Intonation Therapy
    • Therapeutic Singing
    • Oral Motor and Respiratory Exercises
    • Developmental Speech and Language Training through Music
    • Symbolic Communication Training through Music
  • Cognitive Techniques:
    • Music Neglect Training
    • Auditory perception Training
    • Musical Attention Control Training
    • Musical Mnemonics Training
    • Associative Mood and Memory Training
    • Musical Executive Functions Training
    • Music Psychosocial Training

This International Training Program of the Academy is endorsed by the World Federation of Neurologic Rehabilitation (WFNR), by the European Federation of Neurorehabilitation Societies (EFNS), and the International Society for Clinical Neuromusicology (CNM). Training is also approved by the U.S.Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) as advanced provider for Continuing Music Therapy Education (CMTE) credits [The Robert F. Unkefer Academy for Neurologic Music Therapy, #P-105, maintains responsibility for program quality and adherence to CBMT policies and criteria].

Sunday Evening Social

We would like to invite all delegates to the Sunday Social! This is an opportunity for a couple of hours of relaxed and informal socialising from 6pm at Maple House. There will be wine and canapes plus a cash bar. There is no charge for this but we do need to know if you would like to come so we can cater accordingly. Please therefore give an indication of whether you will attend by reserving your place during the booking and registation process.