Perceived effectiveness of music therapy clinical techniques to increase vocal response and improve verbal intelligibility in persons with aphasia

This study examined music therapists' perceptions of the effectiveness of singing, rhythmic speaking/chanting and accompaniment techniques as interventions to increase vocal response and improve verbal intelligibility in persons with aphasia. Data were gathered through a survey sent to music therapy practitioners who were listed in the American Music Therapy Association national directory as professionals who have worked with speech impaired, stroke and elderly populations. Information from the survey was analyzed for outcomes that specifically described current music therapy practice for increased vocal response and improved verbal intelligibility in persons with aphasia. Outcomes confirmed certain clinical techniques that were found in the literature as effective, and indicated additional techniques that music therapy practitioners use or have used with this population. Limitations and implications of the study were discussed and recommendations for further study were indicated.