This entry is about several clinical experiences with a specific client (C) which are centred around an interesting and unique therapeutic framework. At the start of our therapeutic journey together the C responded positively to a song story technique that included dramatic imagery to help develop opportunities for musical improvisation. It was clear to see the C capacity to explore the musical options available once he felt safe and secure inside this familiar structure which connected to some of his likes outside the therapy session. These included creative play, drama and video games with friends and familiar adults. As the therapeutic journey continued and developed the C became more dynamic and animated. He started leading the session himself demonstrating confidence and a social agency to connect with the music therapist. However, what seemed to be difficult was how he was leading these interactions. They were often fast-paced and revolved around several characters and plot lines which were very creative and seemed to stem from his own unique imagination. For example, he would say "Today it is Jailbreak 1 and next session it is Jailbreak 2 and our characters are Wuggy Wuggy and Cat Nap". It was occasionally difficult to incorporate moments for musical connections which from my perspective felt wrong and unrelated to the session. It was also difficult to understand what the C was describing which took up brain space and feelings of spontaneous interaction causing anxiety. Therefore, I went away to think about this case including some time studying over the C's pre-therapy information form to help myself become fully engrossed in the C method of connection to avoid feelings of musical expectation in the session which meet my desires and perhaps not the C's at this point in the therapy process.
Suddenly, I had a large revelation which placed me in a therapeutic framework which I've never experienced before. I realised that the client views the session within a video game viewpoint which includes characters ,certain plot lines and names for the game (Jailbreak). Therefore, I came up with some ideas which included opening and closing soundtracks, drop-down menus, music to match movement or to acquire an item (like in a game) as well as game reviews to allow reflection on the therapeutic session. As soon as approached the session in this way there were more moments for mutual musical connections, shared stories and overall an understanding which could be understood by both the therapist and the C. Currently, the C is creating tables of instruments for him and myself which we use at certain points in our session to musically accompany aspects of the 'game' and it's associated features. I am receiving positive feedback from the staff team and feel is a vital example of the necessary ways and means we must understand each unique client in front us beyond there diagnoses.
Suddenly, I had a large revelation which placed me in a therapeutic framework which I've never experienced before. I realised that the client views the session within a video game viewpoint which includes characters ,certain plot lines and names for the game (Jailbreak). Therefore, I came up with some ideas which included opening and closing soundtracks, drop-down menus, music to match movement or to acquire an item (like in a game) as well as game reviews to allow reflection on the therapeutic session. As soon as approached the session in this way there were more moments for mutual musical connections, shared stories and overall an understanding which could be understood by both the therapist and the C. Currently, the C is creating tables of instruments for him and myself which we use at certain points in our session to musically accompany aspects of the 'game' and it's associated features. I am receiving positive feedback from the staff team and feel is a vital example of the necessary ways and means we must understand each unique client in front us beyond there diagnoses.
