Weaving Words and Music: Healing from Trauma for People with Serious Mental Illness
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47513/mmd.v10i3.617Abstract
Weaving Words and Music: Healing from Trauma for People with Serious Mental Illness
Abstract
This paper will present the development of music verbal trauma groups for people with serious mental illness. The work grew out the collaboration of an interdisciplinary trauma committee in an urban mental health center. Recognizing the high rates of childhood trauma histories in this population members of the committee recognized the importance of including music and creative arts in the treatment of complex trauma. We will outline the interdisciplinary collaboration and the structure of the groups. Elements of music as tools in trauma treatment are described along with using words to identify specific problems and solutions. Examples of our clinical work will be shared from this interweaving of words and music. Brief vignettes will demonstrate survivors’ journeys as they begin to identify and create safety, build healthy relationships, and maintain equilibrium while facing the challenges of their past traumatic experiences.
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