What’s the difference between sound therapy and sound healing?

This is a question I’m asked often, and it makes sense. The words are used interchangeably, yet

they’re not quite the same. Both work with sound and vibration to support wellbeing, but the

intention, structure and experience can feel very different.

Here’s a simple way to understand it.

Sound therapy

Sound therapy is more clinical and structured in how it’s delivered. It often works with specific

frequencies and instruments, such as tuning forks, applied on or around the body and energy field.

The focus is on how vibration affects the nervous system, muscles, fascia and brainwaves. Sessions

are usually targeted and tailored to what’s happening in the body. For example, calming an over-

stimulated nervous system, supporting sleep, or easing physical tension.

Think of sound therapy as working with sound in a precise, intentional way to encourage balance

and regulation.

Sound healing is generally more experiential and expansive. It often takes place in group settings,

such as sound baths, using instruments like crystal singing bowls, gongs and chimes.

Rather than targeting a specific outcome, sound healing creates an immersive soundscape that

allows the body and mind to settle, reset and recalibrate in their own way. People often describe it

as deeply restorative, meditative and emotionally releasing.

There’s less “doing” and more receiving. You lie down, listen, and allow the sound waves to move

through you.

I practise both sound therapy and sound healing. In private one-to-one sessions, I work

therapeutically with tuning forks, often alongside Reiki, to offer focused support for the nervous

system and the body. In group settings, I facilitate sound baths, creating a shared space for rest,

stillness and deep recalibration.

I’ve seen both approaches deliver powerful results and meaningful experiences in different ways.

Some clients respond beautifully to the precision of sound therapy. Others are transformed by the

spaciousness of a sound bath.

I absolutely love a sound bath. I find it deeply relaxing and genuinely therapeutic. There’s something

about being held by sound, with nowhere to go and nothing to fix, that feels profoundly restorative.

There isn’t a better or worse, just different needs.

 If you’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out or holding tension, sound therapy offers focused,

personalised support.

 If you’re craving rest, spaciousness or a pause from the thinking mind, sound healing can be

deeply nourishing.

Sound, at its core, is vibration. And we are vibration too. Whether through therapy or healing, sound

offers the body an opportunity to remember balance, without effort or analysis.

If you’re curious, the best way to understand the difference is to experience it. Your body will always

know which it needs.