The American Music Therapy Association defines music therapy as "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."

Taken from AMTA website www.musictherapy.org
By using targeted music interventions a variety of goals may be addressed such as:
Fine motor skills
Gross motor skills
Balance and/or gait
Breath support
Oral motor skills
Communication/receptive language skills
Memory skills
Pain management
Executive functioning/cognitive skills
Social skills
Self expression/self awareness
Overall health and wellness
Manage stress
Express feelings
Enhance memory