Trauma-Informed Care in Music Therapy: Principles, Guidelines, and a Clinical Case Illustration

Abstract

The 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that 9.5 million Americans aged 18 and older have been diagnosed with more than one mental disorder. Music therapists working in mental health treatment settings are likely to work with individuals who have a complex diagnosis defined here as 2 or more of the following: depression, eating disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, substance use disorder, and severe mental illness. Additionally, adverse childhood events or posttraumatic stress disorder often complicate the clinical profile. Given this, a trauma-informed approach to music therapy treatment is necessary to improve outcomes and minimize harm. The risks, contraindications, and ethical considerations necessary to effectively treat and care for these clients in music therapy will be reviewed. Methods of identifying, assessing, and treating these complex clinical issues in music therapy are discussed with the goal of helping clinicians understand: (1) where treatment needs to begin to ensure therapeutic goals addressing primary issues prior to addressing secondary issues and (2) the appropriate use of music therapy methods. The necessity for music therapists to understand the power of the music in the music therapy process is explored, to ensure that clinicians are meeting client needs, not triggering symptomatology, traumatic memories, or experiences. The importance of a clinician knowing their scope of practice, when they are adequately trained and prepared to work with clients with complex disorders, and how to utilize support such as consultation and supervision to support their effective treatment with client(s) is presented.

Can You Hear Me Now? The Potential of Trauma-Informed and Resilience-Oriented Music Therapy in the Context of Foster Care

“…Depending on the approach or model taken these goals might differ, however -in general -they are non-musical, aiming for improving and broadening the functioning possibilities in everyday life, not just within musical environment (Stachyra, 2012;Konieczna-Nowak, 2018). Trauma-informed approach to music therapy is currently getting more and more attention (Beer, Birnbaum, 2022;Heiderscheit, Murphy, 2021).…”

Developing a Music Therapy Program for Children With Autism Affected by War

“…ABA is widely used to increase positive behaviors and functional independence. TIC is a universal strategy that acknowledges a basic understanding of trauma and its wide-reaching effects, recognizes the signs of trauma, and seeks to avoid retraumatizing (Heiderscheit & Murphy, 2021). Art-based therapies, such as music, movement, and drama are also among effective evidence-based interventions for the development of children with autism (Bharathi, 2019;Eckes et al, 2023;Faccini & Allely, 2021;Kim, 2009;LaGasse et al, 2019;Sharda, 2018;Srinivasan, 2013;Stack & Lucyshyn, 2019;Rajaraman et al, 2022).…”

“…Several research studies have been conducted on music therapy and trauma for children (Bensimon et al, 2008;Carr et al, 2012;Felsenstein, 2013;Heiderscheit & Murphy, 2021;Kruger et al, 2018;McFerran et al, 2022). Music therapy provides a safe environment and is an enjoyable activity for those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).…”

“…By participating in free improvisation, children learn to recognize and verbalize their emotions and use music-making as one of their coping strategies. (Carr et al, 2012;Felsenstein, 2013;Heiderscheit & Murphy, 2021).…”

“…It is used for increasing relaxation and self-efficacy. Also, guided imagery positively affects cognition and behavior (Kim et al, 2012;Heiderscheit & Murphy, 2021;Scheufler, 2021).…”