Harp therapy is a relatively new field of research and practice which explores the beneficial effects of the timbre of the harp. The harp, with its soothing timbre and spiritual associations, has been revered as a healing instrument by many cultures for thousands of years.

      Harp therapy is a general term used to describe the continuum of types of therapies in which the harp is used. It may be provided at home or in a clinical setting. When therapeutic harp music is played, recipients may receive beneficial effects such as increased relaxation, improvement in sleep, decreased pain and anxiety, stabilization of vital signs, and improvement in mood. An end-of-life music vigil can also help a patient to achieve a peaceful transition. 

     Some harpists, trained in other therapeutic disciplines, use the harp in their practices to elicit specific cognitive or behavioral changes. In addition, a harpist might teach an individual to play the harp to assist in pain reduction, to help to overcome physical, mental and emotional challenges, to create a sense of community in a group setting, and to provide physical rehabilitation.