Date of Award
5-2022
Document Type
Thesis
Copyright Status, No Creative Commons License
All Rights Reserved
Degree Name
Master of Science in Music Therapy
Department
Music Therapy
First Advisor
Dr. Amanda MacRae
Abstract
This qualitative research study explored the music therapist’s experience of conducting individual music therapy sessions with older adult clients residing in skilled nursing facilities. Three music therapists partook in semi-structured interviews discussing their individual experiences conducting individual music therapy sessions with older adult clients in skilled nursing facilities. Participant interview transcripts were the primary data source and thematic analysis was used to elicit themes in the data. Five themes emerged: (a) theoretical framework, (b) client preferred music used in individual music therapy sessions (c) flexibility in individual sessions, (d) structured sessions for group work, and (e) advocacy for music therapy in skilled nursing facilities. The findings indicate individual music therapy sessions provide more flexibility within the session space while group sessions provide more structure and are more for community wellness. Individual sessions target the client’s emotional needs on a deeper level and give more opportunities for clients who are unable to participate in groups to the best of their abilities.
Related Pillar(s)
Study
Recommended Citation
Perretta, Jaycie, "A Thematic Analysis of the Clinician's Experience of Individual Music Therapy in Skilled Nursing Facilities with Older Adults" (2022). Theses & Dissertations. 125.
https://digitalcommons.molloy.edu/etd/125
