Abstract

As music therapy services continue to become more accessible, music therapists are working with a wider range of clientele with specific needs. Adolescents experiencing eating disorders (AEED) are among those with whom music therapists work to provide support throughout the treatment process. The purpose of this philosophical inquiry was to synthesize existing knowledge and evidence to substantiate the argument that music therapy (as realized within three categories of experience) is an ideal way to support the development of healthy coping skills for adolescents experiencing eating disorders. The methodology involved clarifying the research terms, exposing and evaluating underlying assumptions, relating ideas as systematic theory, and using argument as a primary mode of inquiry. The findings discussed how adolescents engage with music, current approaches in music therapy for the targeted clientele, and considerations for music therapists working with AEED. The findings confirm that music therapy can be a valuable resource for AEED, providing a space to reflect on coping patterns through composition, improvisation, and receptive music therapy experiences.