Collaborative music therapy via remote video technology to reduce a veteran's symptoms of severe, chronic PTSD

Abstract

Background: Using videoconference technology to provide health care is established in many fields. The authors are not aware of any published reports of music therapy (MT) conducted remotely. This case review describes the process and outcomes of remotely delivered MT to address symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a military veteran. Method: MT was co-facilitated by a music therapist and a clinical psychologist. Sessions were delivered as videoconferences (over 1400 km) utilizing the Ontario-Telehealth Network. A retrospective case study with input from the client was conducted. Results: The client reported improvement, in many of his symptoms. At the end of the treatment period, he attributed much of his progress to MT. Using videoconference technology did not seem to hinder the treatment efficacy. The novel nature of providing MT remotely necessitated an effective collaboration between the music therapist and the client's clinical psychologist. Conclusions: Based on the experience described in this case study, the authors concluded that, (a) remotely-delivered MT can be effective in the treatment of complex PTSD, (b) inter-professional collaboration made a positive impact on the treatment process, (c) geographic distance need not be an obstacle to effective treatment and (d) a remote treatment modality was not detrimental to treatment efficacy.