A research-based map of music therapy in the Czech Republic: Comparisons with other arts therapies. Issue 4 (8th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kantor, Jiří; Karkou, Vicky; Chráska, Miroslav; Duhovská, Jana; Fitzthum, Elena; Gerlichová, Markéta; Kaczynski, Elisabeth; Stachyra, Krzysztof; Voigt, Melanie; Kantorová, Lucia
• Is Part Of: Nordic journal of music therapy. Volume 31:Issue 4(2022)
• Page Start: 293
• Page End: 307
• Publication Date: 2022-08-08
• Subjects: Music therapy -- Czech Republic -- 'the practice in arts therapies' -- arts therapies -- national survey; Music therapy -- Scandinavia -- Periodicals; Music Therapy -- Periodicals; 615.85154
• DOI: 10.1080/08098131.2021.1958906
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0809-8131

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: The development of music therapy in the Czech Republic is closely connected with the development of other arts therapies (AsTs). This cross-sectional study aims to provide a research-based description of the current state of Czech music therapy and offer comparisons with other AsTs. Method: Data were obtained through a modified version of "The Practice in Arts Therapies" questionnaire, which was distributed to arts therapists registered with professional associations in the Czech Republic. From the total sample (N = 144), there were 50 music therapists. The remainder of the sample were drama, dance movement, art therapists, and combinations of these therapies (N = 94). Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed relating to work environment, client groups, and preferred therapeutic trends. Results: Czech music therapy is closely connected to working with special needs populations in social care and educational environments. Practitioners follow humanistic, active/directive and artistic/creative trends. Significant differences were found between music therapists and other arts therapists with regard to the client populations (in their age and type of needs), and therapeutic trends. Discussion: Czech music therapy has strengths in the area of special needs, but it will be important to achieve further growth, especially in health care. This may have a crucial impact on the formation of a common legislative framework for art therapists. We recommend repeating this survey in the future to see how the university-based program for music therapy will have influenced the profession.