What is it like to hear voices? For those who are not voice-hearers it could be hard to imagine what it is like to hear voices, so the soundscape explores this experience. We are interested in whether listening to sounds may be a therapeutic strategy for voice-hearers who are distressed by their voices.
There have been a number of projects in secure hospitals in recent years where sound has been used very effectively to help voice-hearers find some relief from their symptoms. Sound therapists have used gongs, drums, singing bowls, voice and tuning forks in one-to-one treatment settings to deliver bespoke sessions, tailored to the needs of the individual. We have found that regular, weekly sessions can have a significant impact on the debilitating effects of intrusive voices and that many people develop inner strength and enhanced self esteem as a result of exposure to therapeutic sound. More research into this phenomenon is recommended so that a greater number of people might have access to this form of therapy.
To learn more about the use of sounds as a therapeutic strategy you can listen to the Soundscape with voice-hearers podcast:
Listen to ‘Soundscape for voice hearers’
Collaborators for ‘Soundscape with voice-hearers’.
We would like to thank the voice-hearers who took part in the Soundscape. We are grateful for generous funding from the Laces Trust, and from all those who made donations for this project via Crowdfunding.