Case studies of advanced practice in medical music therapy

Music therapy is growing internationally to be one of the leading evidence-based psychosocial allied health professions to meet needs across the lifespan.The Oxford Handbook of Music Therapy is the most comprehensive text on this topic in its history. It presents exhaustive coverage of the topic from international leaders in the field.

Music therapists, as in medical and paramedical professions, have a rich diversity of approaches and methods, often developed with specific relevance to meet the needs of a certain client population. This book reflects the many components of such diversity, and is a thoroughly comprehensive guide to accessing and understanding the ideas, theory, research results and clinical outcomes that are the foundations of this field. Providing a detailed insight into the field of music therapy from an international perspective, this book enables the reader to see the complete picture of the multifaceted and fascinating world that is music therapy.

Presents an overview of the music therapy profession, introducing the basic concepts of music therapy, investigating the clinical populations most often served by music therapists, and providing information about accountability, research, and future trends.

Analytical Music Therapy, The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy, and Vocal Psychotherapy are commonly studied and in conjunction with music therapy. This book examines the development of these four advanced methods of music therapy practice in relation to each other, and explores their impact on the development of the music therapy profession. Based on extensive new research and interviews with leading practitioners of the advanced methods, the book describes the differences, similarities, relationships, and trends between them, compares linearly the development of the music therapy profession primarily in the 20th century with the development of the four advanced methods, and speculates on the future of these advanced methods in relation to the future of music therapy as a profession.

"With the rapid growth of the aging population, an increasing number of persons are diagnosed each year with age-related disorders. The use of music can do much to enhance the plan of care for aging adults. The clinical and musical expertise of a board-certified music therapist is always preferable. There are times, however, when a music therapist is not available and healthcare workers may find music interventions useful for clients--especially those who may be experiencing pain or stress. The primary purpose of this handbook is to educate music therapists and healthcare professionals about the uses and evidence-based benefits of music therapy practices with older adults--those in hospice care, with Alzheimer's disease, in health and wellness programs, and in intergenerational programs. For each of the adult populations, the handbook includes chapters on practical introductory information, reviews of related music therapy research, and clinical applications of evidence-based music therapy practice. The applications are hierarchically ordered for healthcare providers and board-certified music therapists who have advanced skills in music and working with older adults. With these research-based applications, music can become an integral part of the comprehensive care plan for adult clients." -- Publisher's description.

Music at the Edge invites the reader to experience a complete music therapy journey through the words and music of the client, and the therapist’s reflections. Francis, a musician living with AIDS, challenged Colin Andrew Lee, the music therapist, to help clarify his feelings about living and dying. The relationship that developed between them enabled Francis the opportunity to reconsider the meaning of his life and subsequent physical decline, within a musical context. First published in 1996, Music at the Edge is a unique and compelling music therapy case study. In this new edition of the highly successful book, Colin retains the force of the original text through the lens of contemporary music therapy theory. This edition also includes more detailed narrative responses from the author and his role as a therapist and gay man. Central to the book are the audio examples from the sessions themselves. The improvisations Francis played and his insightful verbal explorations provide an extraordinary glimpse into the therapeutic process when working in palliative and end-of-life care. This illuminating book offers therapists, musicians, related professionals and those working with, or facing, illness and death a unique glimpse into the transcendent powers of music. It is also relevant to anyone interested in the creative account of a pianist’s discovery of life and death through music.