Newton-Wellesley News
The healing power of music Therapeutic music lifts up Palliative Care patients
“Music is a universal language,” reflects Lisa Catalano, LICSW, ACHPSW. It crosses generations and cultures. And from her perspective as a lead clinical social worker, “it’s a healing art form.” As facilitator of the new Therapeutic Music pilot program, she has continually seen its powerful effect on patients being supported by the Palliative Care team at Newton-Wellesley. Two days a week, Alethea Khoo, a Certified Music Practitioner (CMP), visits and plays for patients on the hospital’s medical-surgical units as well as the Intensive Care Unit. “Even with a patient who has dementia,” Lisa reflects, “there’s a lightness in their eyes. They’re transported. They find a happier place and time in their life.”
“It’s taught me so much about the healing power of music.” Alethea Khoo, Certified Music Practitioner
24 Fall/Winter 2023
A soothing soundscape Emotionally, “music is a grounding force,” Alethea reflects. She describes what she creates as “a soothing soundscape.” It lifts people’s spirits and eases stress and anxiety. She sees how her music relaxes patients. Their facial muscles and body become less tense. The family may see a loved one’s heart rate going down. Breathing may become steadier. From her training as a Certified Music Practitioner, “I let the music do the work,” Alethea explains. “I make each encounter new and personal—and beneficial to patients in whatever way I can.” The pilot’s beginnings It all began when the director of the Longy School of
