Contemporary Issues in Music Therapy Training introduces approaches, practices and dilemmas in contemporary learning and teaching of music therapy with a focus on experiential learning, reflective practice and inclusion.

The book starts by setting out the pedagogical context for music therapy training, weaving together trainers’ views with pedagogical theory and drawing in contemporary themes essential to music therapy education. This context leads to a detailed focus on the experience of music in training, work-based learning and the trainee experience. The final chapters consider the broader developing role of the music therapist beyond the work in the therapy room, presenting individual career case studies. Contemporary issues of pedagogy, diversity and sustainability are also thoroughly explored throughout. Drawing upon the voices of recent graduates, trainers and practice educators, this book is steeped in lived experience and practice.

The book will be of interest to current and future trainees, practitioners, placement educators and trainers of music therapy. It will also be relevant to readers across the fields of education, healthcare and social work.

Tessa Watson is a music therapy clinician, educator, cellist and vocalist currently working at University of Roehampton as Associate Professor and Programme Leader for the MA Music Therapy. Experienced in mental health and learning disability work her current clinical work is with the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.

Catherine Warner is a music therapist, educator, cellist and music therapy researcher. She is co-programme leader for MA Music Therapy at the University of the West of England and Chair of the Training and Education Committee for the British Association of Music Therapy.