Date of Award

5-2020

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. Seung-A Kim

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand the therapist–client therapeutic relationship in music therapy practice that utilizes an Internet video conference system (tele-music therapy). The subordinate questions were as follows: • How can music therapists establish a therapeutic relationship in tele-music therapy? • How can music therapists be present in the tele-music therapy sessions? • What are the strengths and challenges of tele-music therapy? This study was conducted using a qualitative, phenomenological open-ended interview method. The sample consisted of three experienced music therapists who have practiced telemusic therapy for at least seven years. Two of them were analytical music therapists; another person was a music psychotherapist. Data were collected using video and audio recordings of interviews. Through a phenomenological investigation, key findings from the study suggest the significance of these components of tele-music therapy: (1) psychotherapeutic aspects, (2) effective usage of technology, (3) opportunity for in-person meetings, (4) commonalities with inperson sessions, and (5) therapists’ adjustability to build and maintain a therapeutic relationship. These findings may be used not only to encourage students, educators, and supervisors to start tele-music therapy practice but also to advocate that healthcare facilities start tele-music therapy services. It may also lead to further research on the clinical efficacy of tele-music therapy practice.

Related Pillar(s)

Study

Included in

Music Therapy Commons

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