On May 7, 2024, the nation’s capital witnessed a moving display of the healing power of music as a special event was held to highlight the impact of music therapy for military veterans. Hosted at the National Veterans Museum, the event brought together veterans, therapists, musicians, and community leaders to celebrate the growing role of music therapy in supporting mental health and well-being for those who have served in the military.
The event featured live performances, testimonials, and workshops demonstrating how music therapy is being used to treat conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, which are all too common among veterans. Music therapy, which uses music as a tool to address emotional, cognitive, and social needs, has become an integral part of the recovery process for many veterans, providing an outlet for expression and helping them to process the trauma associated with their service.
Dr. William Carter, a renowned music therapist who works with veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), was one of the keynote speakers at the event. He spoke passionately about the benefits of incorporating music into therapy sessions. “Music has a unique ability to tap into emotions and memories that words sometimes cannot,” Dr. Carter explained. “For veterans, especially those struggling with PTSD, music can provide a bridge to self-expression and healing, allowing them to connect with their emotions in a way that feels safe and manageable.”
One of the highlights of the event was a powerful performance by a group of veterans who have participated in a music therapy program. These individuals, who had once struggled to communicate their emotions, were now able to perform together, sharing their personal journeys through music. Many attendees were moved to tears as they witnessed the veterans’ emotional performances, demonstrating the profound therapeutic impact of music.
The event also featured several workshops, where participants had the chance to engage in music therapy sessions, guided by certified music therapists. These sessions focused on using rhythm, melody, and improvisation as tools for emotional release and stress reduction. In addition to individual therapy, the workshops also emphasized the benefits of group music-making, which fosters camaraderie and a sense of belonging—critical components for veterans who may feel isolated after returning home from service.
Veterans’ advocacy groups, including the Wounded Warrior Project, also supported the event, recognizing the importance of expanding access to music therapy programs for military personnel. The Wounded Warrior Project’s director of programs, Sarah Matthews, spoke about the need for more funding and resources for these services. “Music therapy is one of the many pathways to healing, and it has proven to be an incredibly effective tool for veterans. It’s time we invest more in these programs and ensure that every veteran who could benefit from them has access,” Matthews said.
As the event drew to a close, veterans and their families gathered to share stories and offer words of encouragement. Many expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to use music as a means of healing, while also acknowledging the ongoing struggle many still face. The evening underscored how powerful music can be, not just as entertainment, but as a deeply personal and transformative force for mental and emotional well-being.
