Music Therapy in the NICU

This past June, I had the privilege of completing my NICU Music Therapy training through the National Institute for Infant and Child Medical Music Therapy.

There are so many benefits and rationale for using safe sound practices and music with premature infants. Did you know that the greatest neurological development occurs between the 3rd trimester of fetal development and 2 years of age? (NIH) In a hospital setting, infants are exposed to a plethora of stressful stimuli, resulting in an influx of cortisol and a hyperactive nervous system. Through our work as music therapists, we support positive introductions to stimuli and an increase in relaxation states, giving infants’ developing brains and bodies a break. 

Why did I choose NICU-MT?

Music therapists have many opportunities to obtain advanced certifications and training to refine their areas of expertise and passion. I have always been drawn to infant populations, working in a variety of medical settings, and seeing the meaningful impact our work has at such a critical point of the human lifespan. Providing moments of reprieve for families, soothing a baby to sleep, or encouraging feeding and growing is a highlight of my career! 

What does a NICU-MT do?

Although a NICU music therapist is constantly assessing and adapting to best meet the needs of the infant and family, you might see us doing one of the following interventions.

PAL® (Pacifier Activated Lullaby): This is a unique device that involves a pacifier hooked up to a sensor and monitor- encouraging infants to engage in non-nutritive sucking (and improve their latch, coordination and suck/swallow/breathe reflex). The device gives them positive reinforcement via auditory feedback (lullaby music) when they begin sucking. 

Multimodal Neurologic Enhancement: When a music therapist is holding an infant and providing gentle touch to various areas of their body, this is likely MNE (Multimodal Neurologic Enhancement). This is a progressive intervention that steadily adds layers of sensory stimulation (auditory, visual, vestibular) to both track and increase tolerance. This is so important for infants’ developing nervous systems!

Family support: Empowering parents and caregivers is a core component of the work we do with premature infants. Giving parents tips, tricks and training on meaningful ways to utilize music to bond with and support their baby is crucial. We always say, a baby’s favorite and most soothing voice to hear is their parents!

If you are interested in learning more about NICU Music Therapy, you can learn more via the National Institute for Infants and Child Medical Music Therapy.