Music therapy program injects joy, fulfillment for veterans and first responders

NORTHERN NEW YORK – Individuals in the Col. C. David Merkel, MD, Veterans and First Responders Residential Program are rediscovering their love – and the healing power – of music as part of a unique and creative treatment therapy for mental health and substance use recovery.

Music therapy is gaining recognition as an effective, evidence-based approach to aid individuals in substance use and mental health recovery. By harnessing the healing power of music, therapists are helping patients manage emotions, reduce cravings, and rebuild their lives–offering a unique, non-invasive treatment that complements traditional therapies.

Staff members Nick Provost, clinical aide, and Laurie Woodruff, administrative assistant, have been instrumental in the initiative, and both said it was inspired by a particularly talented group of residents currently enrolled in the program.

Woodruff said while the music program is new, it is part of a larger effort that puts the interests, talents, and passions of residents at the forefront of their treatment.

“Innovative approaches like music therapy are transforming the landscape of recovery, providing new hope and pathways to wellness for those battling addiction and mental health challenges,” Woodruff explained.

Provost is a guitarist himself and said that when staff noticed an increased interest in the musical instruments the program keeps on site, they decided to facilitate a program that would support that interest in a way that matches the holistic nature of the recovery program. Other efforts include activities such as gardening, fishing, and cooking.

Residents said the addition of music to their treatment program has resulted in the return of a passion that gave them immense joy but was interrupted by substance use and mental health problems. Those issues can hijack the pleasure center of the brain and lead people suffering from them away from their true joys in life.

“I’ve been a musician most of my life and it’s the one thing I can always count on that’s always going to be there when you need it,” one resident said. “I can always pick up my guitar.”

Provost said the music initiative is about bringing people together for fun and fulfillment of their musical passions.

“It helps them express what they like to do,” Provost said. “A lot of these guys are very musical and have a lot of abilities. There’s just a lot of benefits with music and getting together and playing, and the social aspect of it.”

Dubbing themselves the “St. Joseph’s Shuffling Buffaloes,” the residents have been building chemistry as musicians and said they are greatly benefitting from the creative and social aspects of the program.

“I’ve been a singer all my life. I’ve done stage performances,” said another resident. “When I sing, it’s just a joyous time. (The) energy being poured out, and energy being poured into me. It’s a feeling that you can’t describe, but it’s beautiful.”

Another resident said that creating music has always been a goal for them.

“For me, it’s life. Music is everything to me.”

Jeremy Baumann, Director of the Col. C. David Merkel, MD Veteran and First Responder Residential Program, said his staff is committed to providing comprehensive and person-centered care to the people who have made personal sacrifices for their country and fellow citizens.

“Our staff continuously strive to go above and beyond for the people we serve.  They take into consideration the strengths of the current population, and work to incorporate those into the activities we plan,” Baumann said. In this case with the music groups, Nick and Laurie have done a tremendous job organizing, encouraging, and facilitating these activities.”

St. Joseph’s C. David Merkel, MD Veterans and First Responders Residential Program in Saranac Lake is officially licensed by New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). Our trauma-informed program is dedicated to serving Veterans, First Responders, and their families, offering a comprehensive range of residential services, including stabilization, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Visit www.stjoestreatment.org/veterans-treatment for more information.

To learn more about the St. Joseph’s, visit www.stjoestreatment.org.