For Mai Linh Nguyen Achong, who has been battling a rare form of ovarian cancer for 18 years, music has become a source of healing and comfort during her journey. Achong has found solace in the ‘Healing Power of the Arts’ program at AdventHealth, which uses music as a form of medicine.
Music Therapy in Action
Board-certified music therapist Alyssa Cassidy is part of the team that brings music directly to patients’ rooms and treatment appointments. Cassidy works on pain management, anxiety reduction, and side effects from chemotherapy. Achong recalled a memorable session with Cassidy and art therapist Becca, where they sang songs together as Achong colored.
Music and art therapy are part of AdventHealth’s ‘Healing Power of the Arts’ program, which also partners with the Dr. Phillips Center to treat stroke survivors and offers specialized care for performing artists. Dr. Monisha Seth, who has studied global research on the healing effects of the arts, believes that art is medicine and can improve physical and mental health, decrease depression, and increase quality of life.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
