Lived experiences in individual music therapy for mothers of children with special needs: a phenomenological study

Abstract

Background: Raising a child with special needs can be challenging in many ways, and social and psychological support for the parents of such children is much needed especially when they are going through tough phases in their lives.Objective: This study looks at the meaning of individual music therapy for the mothers of children with special needs.Methods: Experiences in music therapy for five mothers of children with various special needs were investigated through in-depth interviews using the phenomenological approach developed by Giorgi.Results: For the five mothers, the experiences of individual music therapy provided time and opportunity to reflect on themselves and their relationships with others in the past and present. Various music therapy methods including song-discussion, song-biography, and improvisation were helpful in this process by letting the mothers feel and express their emotions.Discussion: Clinical implication will be presented and discussed further.