Rap and recovery: A music therapy process-oriented intervention for adults with concurrent disorders

Abstract

Drawing on their experience facilitating a group called “Rap and Recovery,” the authors examine the intersections between recovery and psychodynamic views of health and share their social justice perspectives to consider how clients with concurrent disorders might develop senses of agency, well-being, and community in weekly music therapy sessions. They present theoretical influences as well as practical details, including the description of a Rap and Recovery session. This includes a critical, reflexive analysis of professional roles and considerations. The authors conclude that the power of rap-based music therapy to nurture, disrupt, and transform serves as a dynamic space for clients and therapists to question individual and collective commitments, relationships, and identities in attempts to rethink and re-engage understandings of health and wellness.