Renowned psychotherapist and author Philippa Perry’s new five-part series of The Essay on BBC Radio 3, is also available to listen on BBC Sounds.
Philippa Perry: Music and Mental Health explores how music therapy can support psychological wellbeing when conventional talking therapies are not possible or less effective.
In the series, Philippa meets music therapists across the UK to examine their work and its impact. Since the 1950s, accredited music therapists have worked alongside mental health professionals to treat a range of conditions, from psychosis and schizophrenia to severe depression, palliative care and family therapy.
The series also explores the neuroscience of music, investigating how it affects the brain and why it can calm and heal psychological trauma.
Philippa Perry says: “I made this documentary to shine a light on the power of music therapy. It’s still not widely understood, yet it can play an important role in supporting mental health, recovery, and connection. I wanted people to feel its impact firsthand.”
The programme features expert insights, research and personal stories to demonstrate how music therapy can transform lives.
Both practitioners and patients, offer a rare insight into the practical and emotional benefits of the therapy. It also highlights why music can be effective when traditional approaches are limited or unsuitable.
Philippa Perry: Music and Mental Health is available now on BBC Sounds.
