Using Music Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder with Patients suffering from Neurocognitive Disorder - A Single Case Experimental Design

Posttraumatic stress disorder and neurocognitive disorders are highly comorbid. They share similar symptoms such as brain atrophy (hippocampus, amygdala, etc.), cognitive and behavioral disorders (amnesia, executive dysfunction, depression, aggressivity, etc.). A comorbidity implies specificities regarding the symptoms (increase wandering, screaming, sleep disturbances), and there is a lack of evidence-based methods for its treatment. Music therapy is recommended for neuropsychiatric symptoms in neurocognitive disorder. We suggest that it can reduce symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder.

A single case experimental design with AB multiple baselines was conducted with 4 participants suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder and neurocognitive disorder. Posttraumatic stress disorder, neuropsychiatric symptoms, self-esteem and well-being were assessed. Interventions consisted of 7 music therapy sessions.

The visual and statistical results highlighted an improvement in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, neuropsychiatric symptoms and well-being. Self-esteem results are reserved since benefits are clinically observed. Patients mentioned their traumatic event, and posttraumatic stress disorder could not be diagnosed.

Music therapy appears efficient for posttraumatic stress disorder with neurocognitive patients, and its impact should be explored in detail. This clinical study also highlighted the need to improve PTSD diagnosis for elderly individuals with neurocognitive disorders.