How to Use Background Music in Online Therapy Sessions

Using Zoom, Google Meet & Microsoft Teams

Online therapy has opened up new ways to create safe, calming, and effective spaces for clients. One often-overlooked tool is background music. When used thoughtfully, it can reduce anxiety, support emotional processing, and help clients feel more grounded—even through a screen.

In this guide, we’ll explore why background music can help, when to use it, and how to set it up on platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams.

TranceBeats Theta

Why Use Background Music in Therapy?

Background music can subtly shape the emotional tone of a session. When used appropriately, it can:

  • Reduce anxiety: Soft, ambient sounds can help clients settle into the session
  • Enhance focus: Gentle music may reduce distractions in noisy environments
  • Support emotional expression: Music can help clients access and process feelings
  • Create ritual and structure: Starting sessions with the same sound can signal safety and consistency

That said, music should never dominate the session—it should support, not distract.

When (and When Not) to Use Music

Best times to use background music:
  • Guided meditations or breathing exercises
  • Somatic or mindfulness-based therapy
  • Journaling or reflection moments
  • Grounding after intense emotional work
When to avoid it:
  • During deep conversation or active listening
  • If the client finds it distracting or triggering
  • When audio clarity is critical (e.g., assessments)

Tip: Always ask your client for consent before introducing music.

Peace Trance - Background Music for Hypnotherapy

Choosing the Right Music

The type of music matters more than you might think.

Recommended styles:

  • Ambient soundscapes
  • Nature sounds (rain, ocean, forest)
  • Instrumental music (piano, soft strings)

Avoid:

  • Music with lyrics (can interfere with processing)
  • Sudden changes in volume or tempo
  • Emotionally charged or culturally specific tracks unless intentional

How to Play Background Music on Video Platforms

Each platform handles audio sharing slightly differently. Here’s how to do it smoothly:

Using Zoom

  1. Start or join your meeting
  2. Click “Share Screen”
  3. Select “Advanced” → “Music or Computer Sound Only”
  4. Alternatively, share your screen and check:
    • ✅ “Share sound”
    • ✅ “Optimize for video clip”

Pro tip: Keep your music volume low (around 10–20%) so voices stay clear.

Using Google Meet – Google Chrome

Google Meet doesn’t have a dedicated “music-only” share, but you can:

  1. Open a music source in a new tab – Choose a music file or you can use Spotify or YouTube
  2. Click “Share Screen” at the bottom of the window
  3. Choose “Chrome tab” (best for audio quality)
  4. Select the tab playing your music
  5. Ensure “Share tab audio” is checked
  6. Adjust the volume in the audio tab

Note: Using a Chrome tab provides the best sound quality.

Using Microsoft Teams

  1. Click “Share”
  2. Toggle “Include computer sound”
  3. Share your screen or a specific window with your music

Tip: Teams can compress audio—test ahead of time to ensure clarity.

angel voices - Background Music for Hypnotherapy

Best Practices for Therapists

To make background music effective rather than distracting:

  • Test your setup beforehand (sound levels, transitions, lag)
  • Use high-quality audio sources (avoid distorted or ad-heavy streams)
  • Keep control accessible so you can pause or adjust quickly
  • Check in with your client regularly about their experience
  • Have a backup plan in case of technical issues

Ethical and Clinical Considerations

  • Client preference comes first: Never impose music
  • Cultural sensitivity matters: Music can carry different meanings
  • Confidentiality: Avoid platforms that may introduce ads or interruptions
  • Clinical appropriateness: Ensure music aligns with therapeutic goals

Final Thoughts

Background music isn’t essential—but when used intentionally, it can be a powerful addition to your online therapy toolkit. Whether you’re guiding a breathing exercise or helping a client regulate after a difficult moment, the right sound can deepen the experience and enhance connection—even through a screen.

Start simple, stay flexible, and let your client’s needs guide you.

Ocean Sunset

My Philosophy

At Silencio Music I have worked with hypnotherapists and therapists from other modalities to try to create an audio resource of the highest quality. Please let me know if you have any queries or suggestions – I am always looking for ways to improve my understanding and to make better music for hypnotherapy & meditation.

Chris Mullett • Composer • Producer