Music Therapy is an established healthcare profession that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals of all ages.  Music therapy improves the quality of life for persons who are well and meets the needs of children and adults with disabilities or illnesses. 

Music therapy is adaptable to any child. Based on the child's medical, developmental and social needs, a professionally licensed music therapist can create a non-threatening, non-invasive treatment plan to help him better cope with hospitalization.  Because children who are hospitalized have a great deal of fear, anxiety and perceived loss of control,  music therapy allows them to express themselves, make independent choices  and be successful while learning to cope with their hospitalization. 

The Monroe Carell Jr.  Music Therapy Program supported by the Julian T. Fouce Fund has been in existence since January of 2007. It was started by Tom and Maria Fouce in memory of their son, Julian, a great lover of music, who passed away in 2006. The program is the first of its kind at Vanderbilt and its program director and only music therapist is Jenny Plume.   Jenny conducts both individual and group sessions throughout the entire hospital.

Music Therapy goals may include:
Emotional support, distraction during procedures, fine and gross motor skills, anxiety and pain reduction, self awareness, sibling support, end of life issues, socialization and normalization

Music Therapy techniques may include:
Songwriting, movement, guided imagery, lyric discussion, music assisted relaxation, singing, instrument play, improvisation, recording and legacy building.

Referrals are accepted by:
Child life specialists, social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, PACT team, families, members of the clergy, and patients.