'This book describes an essential insight, namely that the core or the individual "I" of those with a mental health issue or a learning disability is always healthy.' --- This ground-breaking study describes six constitution types or syndromes that occur in children and adults with learning disabilities and behavioural disorders such as autism, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as neurological conditions such as epilepsy. The descriptions of these constitution pictures are the result of complementary scientific research based on the insights of Rudolf Steiner. In contemporary medicine, the source of behavioural problems and learning disabilities is believed to derive from genetic and environmental factors affecting the brain. The author expands on this knowledge, asking the vital question of what actually underlies these disorders at a deeper level. The answer leads to better understanding, fresh perspectives and new methodologies for therapeutic support. The author gives a comprehensive description of each constitution, including symptoms, causes, interpretations, treatments, approaches and therapy. These aspects are described in accessible, practical and concrete language with examples and illustrations, including analysis of patients' colour drawings. In addition, attention is paid to diagnostic methods and to the relationship of the six constitution types with conventionally-defined syndromes. A number of training exercises for educators and support workers provide further insight into the constitution images described. Written by a highly-experienced educator of children with special needs, this book is intended for teachers and counsellors at all levels.

Musical Anthropology is the title of a series of lectures by Dr Hans-Heinrich Engel, given in the late sixties and early seventies. The lectures were part of a research into Music therapy based on Rudolf Steiner's anthroposophy and were given in the context of the work with children with complex needs and learning disabilities in a number of residential communities in Northern Ireland, Switzerland and the Netherlands. Engel's approach to therapy was unique and intuitive, but at the same time based on his knowledge of and experience with anthroposophical medicine. The lectures give a fascinating description of the human organs and of the life processes, especially breathing. This book may stimulate those who wish to work therapeutically with the medium of music and are at the same time interested in the spiritual background of the human being as a basis for a deeper understanding of the effect of the elements of music.