Clinical Applications of Music Therapy in Psychiatry provides valuable insight into the work of professional music therapists in their clinical practice. The contributors, who are all internationally-renowned music therapists, discuss work with a diverse range of clients, including those suffering from Alzheimer's, anorexia nervosa, schizophrenia, psychosis, personality disorder, anxiety and psychosomatic disorder. Their chapters develop psychotherapeutic theory alongside music therapy practice, and are intended to be read by the psychiatric professions as well as music therapists, reflecting the medical establishment's growing receptivity to music therapy.

This work brings together the experiences of practitioners who use group music therapy with diverse client groups in various settings. Chapters discuss work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages, shiwing the wide range of applications for group music therapy: in assessment for clinical diagnosis; in work with clients who have learning disabilities, special educational needs, eating disorders or autistic spectrum disorders; and in neurological rehabilitation. Group music therapy is examined from different theoretical perspectives - including psychoanalytic and Foulkesian approaches - and in conjunction with art therapy.

This book is designed to help to make the most of the child's interest in music, as early as possible, by describing ways in which music can be used and providing practical help in starting to play simple musical instruments with the child.;The first part of the book provides the background, explaining how musical activities can help to stimulate skills in other areas such as language and communication, describing a range of basic instruments, and outlining the approach. It emphasizes the fact that prior knowledge of music is not needed, and also provides a choice of very accessible ways for parents to approach music themselves, to give them the confidence to make music with their child.;The second part of the book describes, in detail, 13 musical activities, with ideas for variations and further developments.