What is Music Therapy?

Music Therapy is a clinical and evidence-based practice where music is used as a tool for healing. Trained music therapists guide clients through activities such as songwriting, lyric analysis, improvisation, and listening exercises to explore emotions and build coping skills.

For those with eating disorders, Music Therapy provides a non-verbal way to process feelings, improve self-esteem, and reduce the anxiety that often surrounds food, body image, and recovery.

At Virtue Recovery, Music Therapy is used alongside evidence-based methods like CBT, DBT, ACT, and nutritional counseling to promote holistic healing.

5 Benefits of Music Therapy for Eating Disorders

Encourages Self-Expression

Allows clients to share emotions through lyrics, sound, and rhythm.

Reduces Stress & Anxiety

Music lowers tension and promotes relaxation.

Improves Mood & Motivation

Helps clients build hope, energy, and positive outlooks.

Strengthens Coping Skills

Provides healthy outlets for managing difficult emotions.

Builds Confidence & Connection

Creative participation enhances self-esteem and group bonding.

Do I Have an Eating Disorder?

If you’re concerned about your symptoms, click below to take our eating disorders quiz.

How Music Therapy Works at Virtue Recovery

  • Songwriting & Lyric Analysis – Exploring feelings and recovery themes through music.

  • Improvisation – Using instruments or voice to express emotions in the moment.

  • Guided Listening – Reflecting on music that evokes healing or self-discovery.

  • Group Music Sessions – Encouraging collaboration, connection, and peer support.

  • Mindful Music Practices – Using rhythm and sound to calm the mind and body.

Luxury Music Therapy Programs

At Virtue Recovery, Music Therapy is offered in a safe, calming, and supportive environment. Our therapy rooms and holistic spaces encourage creative exploration while complementing medical and evidence-based care.

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Our Las Vegas Luxury Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment Center

Music Therapy is integrated into our inpatient program as part of the daily treatment schedule. Clients benefit from immersive sessions that combine creative expression with intensive therapeutic support, medical care, and nutritional rehabilitation.

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Our Las Vegas Adolescent / Teen Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment Center

Music Therapy is especially effective for teens who may struggle to verbalize their emotions. Our Teen Program provides creative, developmentally tailored sessions that empower young people to express themselves.

Program highlights include:

  • Songwriting and group music projects for peer connection

  • Family music therapy sessions to improve communication

  • Creative expression that supports identity and self-esteem

  • Academic support provided alongside treatment

  • 24/7 supervision in inpatient care or structured support in outpatient settings

Frequently Asked Questions

Music Therapy is the clinical use of music to address emotional, cognitive, and social needs as part of treatment.

No. Music Therapy is about expression and healing, not performance or talent.

It provides stress relief, emotional expression, self-esteem building, and healthy coping tools.

Yes. It’s integrated with evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and ACT, as well as nutritional counseling.

Yes. Our adolescent program (ages 11–17) includes age-appropriate Music Therapy sessions.

Glossary of Terms for Music Therapy

The clinical use of music to support healing.

Writing lyrics to process emotions and experiences.

Exploring meaning in songs to connect with personal struggles.

Creating music spontaneously for expression and release.

Using rhythm and sound for grounding and calmness.

Whole-person healing beyond traditional talk therapy.

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