Virtual Music Therapy for Substance Use Disorders in a Federally Qualified Health Center

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Behavioral Health
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Music therapy (MT) is an effective adjunctive treatment for substance use disorders (SUD).
• MT is typically offered in inpatient settings, with limited access in outpatient primary care.
• Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) can improve access to SUD treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a virtual group MT program for SUD patients in an FQHC.
• To assess patient perceptions of MT's effects on mood, cravings, and substance use.
• To explore the potential of remote MT in primary care settings.

Main Methods:

• A virtual group MT program was implemented in an FQHC setting.
• Feasibility was assessed via process measures, attendance, and technology use.
• Qualitative interviews and pre/post-intervention mood, substance use, and craving scores were used.

Main Results:

• The virtual MT program was feasible and acceptable to FQHC patients with SUD.
• Participants reported MT was soothing, provided tools for cravings and stress, and fostered community.
• Improvements were noted in mood, stress management, and reduced substance use days; cravings decreased during sessions.

Conclusions:

• Remote group MT is a feasible and acceptable intervention for SUD patients in FQHCs.
• Patients experienced positive effects on mood, stress management, and substance use.
• This study supports expanding MT access in primary care settings.