Karlene M. Francis ~ Music Therapist
About Your Music Therapist
Karlene M. Francis, BA (Mus), Cert. Mus T, MTA, MT-BC
I trained and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Music) from Western University and with a Certificate in Music Therapy
(Cert. MT) from a recognized university music therapy program (Acadia '15) to learn how to use music skillfully to promote positive effects on the wellness of individuals in all stages and conditions of their lives. I have also completed the required 1000 hours internship in the areas of long term care, rehabilitation, oncology and palliative care and am a certified music therapist with designations recognized in Canada (MTA) and the United States (MT-BC).
In therapy sessions, I implement primarily live music using a combination of pitched instruments (piano, guitar, cello), non-pitched instruments (hand drums, shakers) and singing. A music therapist typically will play at least one instrument competently at an advanced level. I studied classical piano for 13 years,
I am self-trained in playing popular music on keyboards and I also studied cello for over 11 years.
Music therapists are expected to learn and play secondary instruments well-enough to support the therapeutic process. Guitar and harp are two effective choices to use in sessions and therefore at least one of these instruments are usually learned if not studied as a primary one previously. I have used guitar as part of music therapy sessions very often.
People interested in trying this very unique therapy, should not be put-off by having no music training. Music is a natural part of all human beings and music therapy is for everyone!
What Music Therapy is Not
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A process to train and develop
instrumental or vocal ability towards mastery
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A performance, entertainment
show for an audience
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Passive. Individuals take an active role
in the treatment process on some level.
Applications for Music Therapy
Alzheimer's/Dementia
Autism spectrum disorders
Behavioral disorders
Cancer
Chronic Pain
Developmentally disabled
Hearing impaired
Health and Wellness
Neurologically impaired
Medical-Surgical
Mental health
Multiply disabled
Physically disabled
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Seniors
School-age children
Speech impaired
Stroke
Substance abuse
Terminally ill
Traumatic Brain Injury
Visually Impaired
Where I have clinical experience/areas of specialty
The selected list above of Applications for Music Therapy indicates areas where individuals are most served by this unique therapy.
I have clinical experience and areas of interest in practice with adults living with Alzheimer's, dementia and other neuro-degenerative conditions such as Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis. I have also worked with youth and adults dealing with mental health challenges such as anxiety and situational depression as well as adults in palliative care.
Music therapy is effective for many reasons and there is growing evidence based research that shows that
applications of music skillfully by a music therapist can:
Boost cognitive function, regulate mood states, regulate breathing and heart rate, and so much more!
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Canadian Association of Music Therapy
Cambridge Institute for Music Therapy Research