Music Therapy
In York County, as in many areas across the country, there is a severe shortage of mental health resources. Waitlists for psychiatrists and therapists can stretch for months, and many providers who are accepting patients don't accept insurance. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 32.7% of the 598,000 adults in Pennsylvania who needed mental health care didn't receive it due to cost. Nationwide, millions of people with mental health conditions go untreated, highlighting the critical need for accessible care.
In response, we are excited to offer a solution through music therapy. This evidence-based treatment has been shown to improve mental health outcomes and promote overall well-being. According to Frontiers in Psychology, music positively affects physical, social, emotional, and cognitive aspects of life. Our program offers no-cost music therapy sessions, opportunities for participants to connect with others in similar situations, and an introduction to music technology, performing, and songwriting. By the end of the program, participants gain valuable skills, new friendships, and a creative outlet for self-expression.
For the 150+ individuals who have already participated, the impact has been profound. Evaluations show that many participants—especially youth—expressed gratitude as they learned to cope with trauma through music in just a few sessions. This program is unique in its ability to combine therapy, social engagement, and artistic expression, providing a holistic approach to mental health care.
By integrating music therapy with a recording studio environment, we offer participants a fresh way to heal and connect. The arts have been shown to reduce substance abuse, boost academic performance, enhance memory, and improve quality of life across all ages. Music therapy, in particular, is effective for treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and memory loss. With limited and costly mental health resources in our area, Studio 117 is proud to offer this innovative program as a vital community resource.
All program data is submitted to the State Music Therapy Task Force to support the Sunrise Application and advocate for music therapy licensure in Pennsylvania, ensuring that this important treatment is accessible to even more people in need.