Read Music Therapy a Fieldwork Primer PDF
The “fieldwork” model in music therapy presents educators and supervisors with an immense challenge, due to the increase in student music therapists who must be able to independently conduct sessions for the first time in order to meet their professional obligations. To meet this challenge, educators and supervisors must become well-versed in this emerging model of work.
Thankfully, books like this one exist that can provide guidance for newcomers as they navigate the maze of immigration regulations. Author Mark Borczon offers numerous helpful tips and techniques in his book to assist newcomers as they settle in their new environment.
Chapter 1, “The Attributes of a Good Music Therapist,” provides the foundation by outlining qualities necessary for success as a music therapist. These include curiosity, empathy and integrity among others.
Borczon provides some practical guidance in the next chapter to assist students in their fieldwork endeavors. These include recognizing and appreciating client strengths, encouraging self-discovery, stimulating creativity, increasing self-efficacy, and assuring safety.
He also provides advice on dealing with the inevitable negatives that come along with fieldwork, such as the dreaded first session. He advises students to be prepared for anything and not judge a client’s reaction too quickly.
In addition to the above, he provides several tips for success in your fieldwork: use appropriate music, use precise words, and be ready to improvise when needed. Doing this will enable better communication with clients, leading to healthier relationships and a more satisfying overall experience for both parties.
