Walking on the path of recovery: reflections on the process of music therapy with adult individuals suffering from mental illness

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate how the process of music therapy could support adults with mental illness on their paths of recovery. A total of five participants, two clients and three staff, participated in the semi-structured interviews. They were selected according to their involvement in the music therapy programme: three participants who had attended more than five sessions were asked to describe the experiences of their engagement in the music therapy process, whereas the other two staff participants who had attended fewer than five sessions were asked to describe their observations of the clients in those particular sessions. In addition, the author's field notes were used to compare with the interview transcripts, and discussion with participants, music therapy colleague and supervisor. The study's findings revealed that the use of music was perceived by these participants to be helpful to facilitate self-expression, communication, and social interaction. Clients' increased participation in the sessions and the regular pattern of their voluntary attendance indicated their preference for the music therapy programme. Music therapy was shown to be able to bring intra-personal comfort and improve interpersonal relationship that could enhance one's sense of self. Personal changes and the developed skills and interests which stemmed from the music therapy process showed possibilities of them being translated into other areas of individual's recovery. The personal experience of the author is also included to highlight issues that music therapists may encounter on the journey of accompanying adult individuals on their path to recovery from mental illness. Implications for future music therapy practice and research are also presented.