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Music Therapists’ Experiences and Perspectives in Working with LGBTQ+ Youth in Canada

Title:

Music Therapists’ Experiences and Perspectives in Working with LGBTQ+ Youth in Canada

Hart, Eleanor (2021) Music Therapists’ Experiences and Perspectives in Working with LGBTQ+ Youth in Canada. Masters thesis, Concordia University.

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Abstract

LGBTQ+ youth are a diverse group of individuals with a variety of experiences, strengths, and resources. However, this group is at greater risk of mental and physical health challenges due to the systemic oppression and marginalization they face. Research has begun to explore how music therapy can support LGBTQ+ youth in navigating these challenges, but there is currently a lack of literature on this topic in Canada. The purpose of this qualitative interview study was to understand the experiences and perspectives of certified music therapists (MTAs) in their work with LGBTQ+ youth in Canada. Semi-structured qualitative feminist interviews were conducted with three participants over Zoom. Interviews were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis with a critical lens. The three overarching themes that emerged in the results were (a) client priorities; (b) music therapist competence, commitments, and reflexivity; and (c) representation, visibility, and shared experiences. Implications are discussed for Canadian music therapy practice, training and education, and research, and limitations of the study are presented. This study aims to expand knowledge of how music therapists in Canada can best support LGBTQ+ youth clients, contribute to the development of more music therapy programs for these clients, and initiate more research in this area.

Divisions:Concordia University > Faculty of Fine Arts > Creative Arts Therapies
Item Type:Thesis (Masters)
Authors:Hart, Eleanor
Institution:Concordia University
Degree Name:M.A.
Program:Creative Arts Therapies (Music Therapy)
Date:1 April 2021
Thesis Supervisor(s):Bruce, Cynthia
Keywords:Music Therapy, LGBTQ+ Youth, Qualitative Interview Study, Music Therapists, Canada
ID Code:988252
Deposited By: Eleanor Jean Hart
Deposited On:29 Jun 2021 21:14
Last Modified:29 Jun 2021 21:14

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