The Role of Improvised Music in Psychodynamic Music Therapy with Adults

Abstract

The music therapy field is rapidly advancing. There are many music therapists now working as primary therapists and in private practice. In light of this development, there is a growing need for a theory that unites the concepts of depth psychology with the practice of music therapy. This article defines and describes a theory of psychodynamic music therapy that emphasizes the role of improvised music. Three ways in which improvised music functions within a psychodynamic framework are illustrated: (1) as pure experience in the here and now, (2) as a mediator between conscious and unconscious contents, (3) and as a symbolic language. Special attention is given to Jung's theory of complexes as it relates to psychodynamic music therapy. Case examples from private practice with two 32 yr old female artists are included. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)