Western-trained music therapist in China: set up a music therapy program in Chinese medical setting

• Main Author: Qian Li
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Inspirees International B.V. 2017-12-01
• Series: Creative Arts in Education and Therapy
• Subjects: music therapy program; psychiatric hospital; cross-culture; adult mental disorders; challenges and outcomes
• Online Access: http://caet.inspirees.com/caetojsjournals/index.php/caet/article/view/50

This article provides an overview of the history and development of music therapy in China medical setting. It also includes a pilot project, set up by a western-trained music therapist in a Chinese psychiatric hospital in 2013. The project aimed to explore how to apply music therapy based on Chinese-culture needs , educate and inform participants (medical staff/patients/families) on issues and potentials to mental patients; explain common misunderstandings by using contemporary music therapy perspectives and engage patients in different music therapy models to improve their functions. The project has been ongoing for 4 years and has some good outcomes. The challenges arising from the integration of Chinese and Western cultures are also included in this article.