Music Therapy and Elective Mutism: a case discussion

Author(s): K. , Mitchell A. R.

Journal/Book: Journal of British Music Therapy. 1990; 4: Hertfordshire, UK. British Society for Music Therapy/APMT. l0-l4.

Abstract: This papaer describes individual music therapy sessions with a 20-year-old man with specific communication difficulties manifested as inappropriate behaviour and elective mutusm in his daily life. It shows how music therapy was of particularly relevant treatment in the context of the Unit where he was being helped. It illustrates firstly how aspects of play can be embraced in the therapeutic relationship, and secondly how problems can be worked through in the experience of both musical and non-musical interaction. Ther therapist uses a psychodynamic viewpoint in her understanding and interpretation of the sessions.

Keyword(s): individual, communication-problems, psychodynamic, psychiatric, youth, elective-mutism.

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