84R7145 BK-D
 
  By: Naishtat H.R. No. 257
 
 
 
R E S O L U T I O N
         WHEREAS, The practice of music therapy has been effectively
  used to promote healing and enhance the physical, mental, and
  emotional well-being of countless individuals; and
         WHEREAS, A clinical, evidence-based discipline, music
  therapy is defined as the application of music by an accredited
  professional for the purpose of achieving therapeutic goals; music
  therapy is used to treat persons of all ages and abilities in a
  variety of settings, and it is shown to be a safe and cost-effective
  method of health care due to its capacity to address multiple
  patient concerns without the need for medication; and
         WHEREAS, Research has found music therapy to be successful in
  helping patients with Alzheimer's disease to improve their
  cognitive functioning, children with autism to better communicate,
  and victims of stroke to regain their speech and mobility;
  moreover, music intervention has been a valuable tool for many
  clients in controlling chronic pain and managing anxiety and
  depression; and
         WHEREAS, More than 40,000 Texans receive services from music
  therapists each year; certified practitioners must complete a
  degree in music therapy at a college or university approved by the
  American Music Therapy Association and are credentialed by the
  Certification Board for Music Therapists; and
         WHEREAS, Degrees in music therapy are offered at a number of
  institutions of higher learning in Texas, and many graduates of
  these institutions go on to become contractors and operate small
  businesses that contribute to the economies of their community and
  state; and
         WHEREAS, Texans from all walks of life have benefited
  immeasurably from the techniques used by skilled music therapists,
  and it is a privilege to join in commending them for the innovative
  services they provide; now, therefore, be it
         RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 84th Texas
  Legislature hereby recognize February 3, 2015, as Music Therapy Day
  in Texas and extend sincere best wishes to music therapists across
  the Lone Star State for success with their important work.