Verbal Processing within the Music Therapy Relationship

Abstract

This article is intended to establish an introductory foundation for the continued development of theory and methods in the use of verbal processing in music therapy. Verbal processing may contribute toward client awareness of internal sensations, feelings and thoughts related to external events and relationships, as well as contribute toward therapist understanding of the affective, cognitive and relational material which surfaces during the musical experiences in music therapy. In addition to these functions, verbal processing provides a means for the music therapist to gather information, to test an observation, provide assessment information, stimulate activity within a therapy group, or provide feedback that can enable a return to the music. Issues that may present as resistances to the music therapist's use of verbal processing will also be explored. Case examples are provided to present demonstrations and application of the purposes of verbal processing. Finally, the article concludes with suggestions that may help the music therapist's focus on the direction of intervention in the use of verbal processing. It is suggested that music therapists continue to develop methods of verbal processing since it seems to be an integral part of a great deal of music therapy practice. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)(journal abstract)