Abstract
In this paper, a model for working with psychotic patients in a group music therapy setting is discussed. This model is constructed in the light of psychodynamic theories, from an interpersonal point of view. Although many music therapists think of music as a therapeutic tool to foster freedom of expression and the breaking of interpersonal bareers, the work with acute psychotic patients questions the pertinence of such objectives. Therefore, the author aims to establish a conceptual middle point between the conventional goals of a music therapy intervention and the therapeutic goals that are often established for the acute patient, such as containment, establishing of interpersonal boundaries and achieving higher control of impulses. Practical issues and challenges to the management of music therapy inpatient groups are discussed as well, hoping to respond to the needs of therapists working with such population.
Notes
The author wishes to thank Dr Al Fauross, from Nassau County Medical Center, who greatly inspired the elaboration of this article and her career as a group therapist.