Background. Terminology in music therapy has evolved, particularly in the distinction between receptive and passive music therapy. Traditionally, receptive music therapy, which focuses on listening to music, has been described as passive and can be confused with a lack of patient participation. However, recent studies have emphasized that listening to music involves deep emotional and cognitive processes, thus questioning the validity of the term passive. Methodology. A literature review was conducted to analyze the conceptual evolution of receptive music therapy and its implications for perception and clinical practice. In addition, studies of the therapeutic effects of music, its impact on emotional regulation, and cognitive processing during music listening were reviewed. Results. The review highlighted that listening to music activates brain regions associated with emotion and memory, challenging the notion of passive music therapy. Patients are actively engaged through emotional and cognitive responses. In addition, receptive music therapy was found to be more effective than active music therapy in certain contexts. Conclusions. The transition from the term passive to receptive in the description of music therapy best reflects the active nature of patient involvement and the therapeutic potential of music. This terminological change is essential for an accurate understanding and effective application of music therapy, improving the assessment of its therapeutic benefits and patient adherence to interventions.