Resources & references

This article describes how musical interaction can contribute to bonding and early interaction for blind/visually impaired children (aged 1-4 years) and their sighted caregivers in the context of a 10 week music therapy program, through a positive, empowerment-based lens.

This study explored perspectives and social needs of aging adults with IDD as expressed by them through actions, words, music, and art that they shared in a university community Art Hive. Using collaborative and participatory methods, this research contextualizes the Art Hive as a place of social, creative, and relational engagement and inclusion.

Read an article exploring the use of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music with blind/visually impaired individuals, including the adaptations required for employing this method within this population. 

Read an article written by music therapist/special educator, Jiří Kantor, on the unique aspects that music, as a method of connection and communication, can bring to the life and overall wellbeing of individuals with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities. Discussion of the important role that music therapists can play in interdisciplinary teams for these individuals is also discussed. 

Read an article featuring an interview with Julie Dawn Reid, a music therapist, explaining how music therapy can be used and what it may look like with individuals in addictions recovery. A discussion of the risks of music in this population, especially due to the strong associations between certain types of music and substance use is also included.

Case study examples from both music therapy and ethnomusicology are provided, illustrating how adopting this approach has been validating and beneficial for autistic individuals. 

Read a thesis exploring the literature around combining narrative therapy techniques with therapeutic songwriting techniques to support children and adolescents living through adverse childhood experiences. Trauma-informed care is highlighted, as well as a discussion surrounding both factors which can promote and which can hinder success of the approach.

Read about the "Rise Up" program, an interdisciplinary program supporting children 9-17 years old from immigrant families in sharing their experiences and talents artistically with their community. Described by the director of one of the involved university departments as "community music therapy in action," the article also includes the reflections of music therapy students on their mentorship role in the program.

The aim of this study was to learn how music therapy sessions, held prior to the death of a loved one, impact spirituality in surviving caregivers of advanced cancer patients. Pre-loss music therapy can potentially assist caregivers during times of bereavement, as they retain memories of joy and empowerment, rather than memories of pain and distress, and find meaning through transcendence.