CREATING A MUSIC THERAPY ENVIRONMENT AS A MEANS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL AND CREATIVE SUPPORT

Abstract

In the context of prolonged wartime stress, psychological exhaustion of society, and widespread fatigue from the constant flow of negative information, the development of innovative approaches to psychological rehabilitation and creative support becomes critically important for preserving the nation’s mental health. The establishment of specialized music centers today is not merely a social initiative but a novel approach to restoring emotional well-being, rekindling interest in life, and unlocking the individual’s inner resources through the powerful medium of artistic expression. Such centers are designed to serve as platforms for emotional recovery, combating apathy, and fostering a new form of social experience based on mutual support and creative self-expression. The practical significance of studying both domestic and international examples of specialized institutions demonstrates that the effectiveness of such centers largely depends on their ability to create a natural environment for socialization. Each of them has its own focus. Some emphasize classical music therapy, others – group drumming sessions or jazz improvisations, while some operate as open recording studios that facilitate social interaction. They also pursue different goals: assisting veterans, supporting children affected by trauma, or simply providing overburdened city residents with a space for emotional release. Every format plays an essential role, for in such a delicate matter as psychological recovery, there can be no universal formula. However, another fascinating direction emerges – the use of contemporary musical phenomena such as K-pop. Its uniqueness lies in its ability to communicate across generations in a shared cultural language: for young people, it is part of their identity, while for older generations, it is an intriguing cultural phenomenon that helps them better understand their children. This creates a safe and engaging environment where people attend not a «therapy session» but an inspiring thematic event. In such a space, surrounded by vivid imagery, energetic rhythms, and a community of like-minded individuals, psychological recovery occurs naturally and unobtrusively – through genuine interest rather than compulsion. This approach simultaneously opens up diplomatic opportunities. The global popularity of the Korean Wave provides a natural bridge for deeper cooperation with the Republic of Korea – a country that not only understands the power of cultural influence but has also shown consistent support for Ukraine. Joint festivals, artist residencies, and professional exchange programs can transform cultural fascination into strong and lasting partnerships. Music has proven to be an effective and unique tool for psychological rehabilitation and creative empowerment, combining therapeutic impact with the development of creative abilities. Unlike traditional counseling, musical practices offer an indirect path to emotional correction, where art becomes a bridge to the individual’s inner resources. Contemporary centers adopt diverse musical genres, demonstrating how sound can simultaneously restore psychological balance and unlock creative potential. Of particular value are formats that integrate the rhythmic structures and social dynamics of modern genres, creating a triple effect: music as therapy, creativity as self-expression, and community as support. This synthesis makes music centers an optimal solution for comprehensive psychological rehabilitation in today’s conditions. Purpose. To investigate contemporary approaches to the creation of music centers for psychological rehabilitation and creative support, with an emphasis on adapting international experience to the Ukrainian socio-cultural context. Methodology. Analysis of scientific publications and examples of foreign and Ukrainian music centers for psychological rehabilitation, as well as a comparative analysis of their characteristics. Results. Characteristic features of contemporary music-therapeutic spaces have been identified, and promising models of psychological support through music for the Ukrainian context have been determined. Scientific novelty. A systematic study of foreign models of music centers demonstrates the feasibility of combining international experience with domestic particularities of psychological rehabilitation. In particular, the effectiveness of the cultural distance mechanism has been substantiated, allowing the creation of a psychologically safe space for emotional recovery, where music acts as a catalyst for positive change. Practical relevance. The results can be applied in the design of contemporary music centers.