Group music therapy for adults with mood and anxiety disorders

A music-centred and resource-oriented approach

If you’re working in adult mental health, then this tutorial is for you!

Dr Mitchell brings a thoughtful and evidence-based perspective to working with adults with anxiety and mood disorders.

Exploring both music-centred and resource-oriented frameworks, Dr Mitchell discusses how music can be both intrinsically beneficial (music-centred) and a powerful resource (resource-oriented).

Dr Mitchell describes a typical improvisation session format which includes a musical check in, sound-layering improvisation, ‘storm’ improvisation, emotion-based improvisation, and group drumming.

She also outlines a music-listening session format, incorporating song sharing and playlist creation.

Participant feedback has highlighted the benefit of these methods in regard to expressing and shifting emotions, promoting connection, and feeling supported and ‘cared for’.

Dr Mitchell closes with a respectful exploration of the dissonance we sometimes feel between the music ‘itself’ and the extra-musical goals we work towards.

This tutorial includes extra resources for you to develop your skills further and the tutorial closes with 3 optional bonus content activities which will extend your learning and earn you extra CMTE/CPPD credits.

This tutorial is CBMT approved for 1 CMTE credit.


Your Instructor


Dr Elizabeth Mitchell
Dr Elizabeth Mitchell

Elizabeth Mitchell PhD, RP, MTA, is Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Music at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, where she coordinates the Bachelor of Music Therapy Program. A registered psychotherapist and certified music therapist, Liz has extensive experience working in mental health treatment settings with children, adolescents, and adults. As a researcher and practitioner, Liz’s curiosities include community music therapy, music psychotherapy in mental health, and the interconnections between music therapy and allied musical practices. Since 2019, Liz has served as the Ethics Chair for the Canadian Association of Music Therapists. Outside of music therapy, Liz holds an ARCT in piano performance. To fill up her musical soul, she loves playing and singing pop tunes at open mics and singing professionally with the Canadian Chamber Choir.


Earn 4+ CMTE/CPD credits quickly and easily by watching the tutorial and completing the bonus content activities!

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Course Curriculum


  Tutorial documents
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  Tutorial videos
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  Bonus content activities
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  Free resource!
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Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.
Do I receive a certificate when I complete the course?
Yes you do! Once you have watched all the videos a certificate for 1 CMTE/CPD credit will be emailed to you. You can earn extra CMTE/CPD credits by completing one or more of the bonus content activities.

Group music therapy for adults with mood and anxiety disorders is approved by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) for 1 credit. Music Therapy Online [AP-218] maintains responsibility for program quality and adherence to CBMT policies and criteria.

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