WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. February 10, 2011 – The sound of music was heard at the third annual In Harmony Music and Massage Therapy Conference hosted by Hospice of Palm Beach County. Music therapy, that is. 

Approximately 75 people attended the three-day conference which opened February 4^th at the West Palm Beach Marriott Hotel, with members of the Hospice of Palm Beach County music and integrative therapy department playing instruments and harmonizing, inviting attendees to participate. The conference attracts therapists’ nation-wide to network, learn the latest techniques and ideas and earn continuing education credits.

Dr. Faustino Gonzalez, vice president of medical affairs at Hospice of Palm Beach County gave the opening address discussing the importance of the complementary therapies of music, massage and aromatherapy in reducing stress, anxiety, high blood pressure and pain. Gonzalez explained that pain affects 40% of Hospice patients. “These therapies have been proven to help the more than 1150 patients we see daily to reduce discomfort.”

Carla Tanguay, Hospice of Palm Beach County music therapy internship coordinator, explained that music therapy applicants must intern for six months with the organization before applying for a position. When Tanguay was asked why massage and music therapists choose to attend this conference, she replied, “This conference provides a unique opportunity for music therapists and massage therapists from across the country to enhance their skills and techniques while also learning about how to integrate techniques from other modalities. When these therapies are used together, a power synergy is created that helps the patients who need it most.” Hospice of Palm Beach County has one of the largest music therapy programs in the United States. The program began 14 years ago as a method to provide added comfort to patients, alleviating anxiety and involving family members at a significant time in their loved one’s life.  Today, music therapy is recognized as an important clinical intervention. Hospice patients receive these therapies along with medical, physical and psychological treatments. Music and integrative therapy patients are assessed and prescribed sessions just as they would with other forms of care.

These integrative therapies, also known as complementary therapies, treat patients on an emotional, spiritual and cognitive level. These gentle, holistic treatment options work seamlessly with the medical care provided to patients. Along with music therapy, they include palliative massage, reiki, aromatherapy, imagery work and relaxation training.

“We are able to provide these therapies due to the incredible response from our patients and families and the willingness of the community to support such a viable program,” Dave Fielding, president and chief executive officer of Hospice of Palm Beach County.

One of those patients was Addison Hines, a long-time resident of Palm Beach and entrepreneur. He enjoyed and supported the arts, especially music. As Hines faced his own death, he received aid from Hospice. Today, the Addison Hines Charitable Trust continues to generously support Hospice of Palm Beach County’s music therapy program.

For more information about the services Hospice of Palm Beach County provides to the community, please call (561) 848-5200 or visit www.hpbc.com.