A psychometric and interview perspective on change in music therapy with Anna diagnosed with PTSD–a mixed method case study

Abstract

Introduction: Change for people who are diagnosed with PTSD often poses a great challenge for the client themselves as well as for the therapist. This study aims to investigate change in music therapy through self-report questionnaires and interview data with a patient named Anna (pseudonym). Anna experiences severe dissociation episodes and is diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Methods: A mixed-method approach is utilised to investigate change from self-report questionnaires throughout treatment and interviews at treatment termination. Results: The self-report questionnaire data indicate positive change in symptoms, maladaptive schemas, and the working alliance. The interview responses illustrate the dynamics of the music therapy sessions, as well as Anna’s experiences of challenging and helpful elements within and outside of the therapeutic context. Discussion: The analysis documents change from both the qualitative and quantitative perspective. This change is discussed from different theoretical perspectives: Growth, working alliance, common factors and implicit relational knowing. This study illustrates how change and the emergence of a more resourceful person unfold in music therapy. Finally, critical reflections on design shed light on limitations of the study. The case example illustrates a process of change and underlines the importance of developing and maintaining a strong alliance as a stabilising factor in music therapy to balance challenges in a chaotic world.