1. Music Therapy – Autism Spectrum Disorders
By: Christina Overmyer

2. Music Therapy
A technique that uses musical interaction to develop/strengthen individuals’ needs.
Goal Areas
Language/communication
Behavioral/psychosocial
Cognitive
Musical
Perceptual/motor

3. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Assess strengths and needs.
Create a treatment plan that includes goals and objectives.
Develop and provide strategies that can be used at home and/or school.
Music can be used when children enter a classroom, greet a teacher/peer, and engage in play.
Develops communication and social skills through singing and dancing.
Start communication through singing.

4. Example

5. Benefits Increased attention Increased socialization
Improved cognitive functioning
Improved behavior
Improved verbal skills
Enhanced auditory processing
Enhanced sensory-motor skills
Decreased self-stimulation
Decreased agitation

6. Resources
Autism Spectrum Disorders: Music Therapy Research and Evidence Based Practice Support. (n.d.). American Music Therapy Association. Retrieved October 8, 2012, from
Music As Therapy for Autistic Children. (n.d.). DateHookup.com® 100% Free Dating Site & Free Online Dating. Retrieved October 9, 2012, from
Rudy, L. (2010, January 30). Music Therapy - Music Therapy for Autism. Autism - Signs, Symptoms, Treatments, Resources, Support for Autism. Retrieved October 8, 2012, from