Archive · 2 Aug 2025
Music Therapy Effective in Easing Cancer Survivors' Anxiety
Music therapy, using music to help, is as effective as talk therapy (CBT) for cancer survivors with anxiety.
A recent study shows it works just as well as talk therapy (CBT), a standard treatment.
The therapy includes creating songs and can help people feel better for several months.
Because it can be done online, more people can access it.
Many doctors suggest music therapy and similar methods alongside regular cancer treatments to help patients.
Music therapy is as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for managing anxiety in cancer survivors.
A recent MSK study found that music therapy benefits can last up to four months post-treatment.
The MSK study incorporated collaborative songwriting into music therapy sessions.
Music therapy can be delivered via telehealth, increasing accessibility.
Integrative therapies complement traditional cancer treatments to alleviate symptoms.
- Who
- Cancer survivors experiencing anxiety.
- What
- Music therapy is as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy in managing anxiety in cancer survivors.
- When
- The study benefits lasted up to four months post-treatment.
- Where
- The clinical trial was conducted at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK).
- Why
- To manage anxiety and improve the quality of life for cancer survivors.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Music Therapy
Treatment Options
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is the current gold standard.
Music Therapy
Music therapy can be considered alongside CBT.
- Study Location
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK)
- Participants
- 300 cancer survivors
- Therapy Type
- Music therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Key Component of Music Therapy
- Collaborative songwriting
- Delivery Method
- Telehealth
- Main Finding
- Music therapy is as effective as CBT in reducing anxiety.