Students in the music therapy program at Franklin College’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music now have another allied health facility where they can use music to enhance the patient experience. Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center announced their collaboration with the program to introduce medical music therapy services to its adult oncology unit, offering patients a new way to find comfort and support during cancer treatment. 

Music therapists use patient-preferred live music to meet patient needs in a variety of ways Patients’ perception of pain or sadness can be altered through listening to music, creating music through instrument play or songwriting, or talking about memories and meaning associated with familiar music. Whether a patient is struggling with separation from their home, missed milestones, or the news of a devastating prognosis, music therapy can help patients redirect their thoughts and energy.  

“Research shows music can lower stress, improve mood, and even help regulate vital signs. For oncology patients, these benefits can make a meaningful difference,” said Jeremiah Bame, chief nursing officer at Piedmont Athens Regional. “Partnering with UGA allows us to integrate evidence-based music therapy into our care, creating moments of peace and connection for patients and families.” 

One of only two music therapy degree programs in Georgia, UGA’s program has graduated musicians with specialized clinical training since 1968. Students complete core courses including music history, music theory, applied lessons and ensembles, and supplement their studies with courses such as psychopathology,anatomy and physiology, educational psychology, and specific music therapy courses. 

Students also complete six semesters of practicum coursework, gaining hands-on experience in assisted living communities, hospice organizations, hospitals, mental health agencies, nonprofit organizations, private practices, school systems and rehabilitation facilities. In addition to coursework, students must complete a six-month internship and pass the board certification examination to become board-certified music therapists. The program offers a Master of Music with an emphasis in music therapy, as well as an equivalency program for individuals who hold a degree in music or another field and wish to pursue certification in music therapy. Currently, nearly 50 undergraduate and graduate students are pursuing degrees in the program. 

“Clinical music therapy is so much more than listening to relaxing music at the hospital,” said Sally Ann Nichols, music therapist and clinical assistant professor at UGA. “Familiar music not only stimulates the entire brain, but it brings normalcy and comfort to environments that aren’t usually normal or comfortable, like the hospital. Using music as common ground, music therapists can connect with patients from all walks of life to help them reach their treatment goals.” 

UGA’s program recently received renewed funding to continue its partnership with St. Mary’s Hospital in Athens, primarily serving patients in neurorehabilitation and stroke care. The program also collaborates with the Cognitive Aging Research and Education Center on UGA's health sciences campus, local agencies serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, community-based substance use disorder programs, and special education classes in K-12 schools.  

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