Bereaved Family Caregivers’ Reflections on the Role of the Music Therapist

Authors

  • Lucanne Magill DA, LCAT, MT-BC, MTA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47513/mmd.v3i1.261

Abstract

In music therapy practice, it is well understood that the presence of the therapist plays an important role. Within a previous qualitative research study, 7 bereaved family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer voluntarily contributed reflections regarding memorable features of the functions of the music therapist. This article presents an overview of the strategies provided in this home-based hospice music therapy program and a focused content analysis of narrations that pertained to the caregivers’ perceived roles of the therapist. Data revealed the following themes: (1) the music therapist displays calming and compassionate personal attributes; (2) the music therapist uses subtleness of approach and has person-centered therapeutic skills; (3) the music therapist maintains a supportive and interactive role; and (4) the music therapist establishes and maintains an ongoing therapeutic relationship. The findings illustrate the significance of compassion in oncologic settings and help validate the potential importance of the role of the music therapist in offering support during times of loss and grief.

Keywords

creative arts therapy, music therapy, palliative care, music psychotherapy, medical music psychotherapy

Author Biography

Lucanne Magill, DA, LCAT, MT-BC, MTA

Lucanne Magill, DA, LCAT, MT-BC, MTA, is Assistant Professor and Coordinator, Music Therapy Program, University of Windsor, Canada. She serves as Chair, Commission for Global Crisis Interven- tion, WFMT, and she has been working closely with cancer patients and families since 1973. She lectures internationally, conducts ongoing research in regional and international settings, provides train- ing, and has published extensively on topics relating to music therapy in oncology and palliative medicine.

Issue

Section

Full Length Articles