A child diagnosed with ASD is referred to music therapy to support self-expression through music. Which approach/model would a music therapist most likely draw upon?

A child diagnosed with ASD is referred to music therapy to support self-expression through music. Which approach/model would a music therapist most likely draw upon?

• A. A.O.M
• B. GIM
• C. Nordoff-Robbins
• D. Cognitive Behavioural Approach

Answer: (C)

Self-expression through music in a child with autism is best supported by an improvisation-centered, client-driven approach. Nordoff-Robbins focuses on live, improvised music created together by the therapist and child, making the musical conversation the vehicle for expression, communication, and social interaction. This flexible, nonverbal, collaborative process lets the child express feelings, ideas, and needs directly through music, which is particularly effective when verbal expression is limited or limited by social or developmental factors. Because the emphasis is on spontaneous musical dialogue and the therapist tuned to the child’s musical responses, it naturally facilitates self-expression in a way that structured or non-music-focused approaches do not. Guided Imagery and Music relies more on guided listening and imagery rather than interactive musical creation; a Cognitive Behavioral approach centers on thoughts and behaviors through verbal strategies rather than primarily through music-making; the remaining option would not align as closely with the goal of expressive, relational music-making.

Self-expression through music in a child with autism is best supported by an improvisation-centered, client-driven approach. Nordoff-Robbins focuses on live, improvised music created together by the therapist and child, making the musical conversation the vehicle for expression, communication, and social interaction. This flexible, nonverbal, collaborative process lets the child express feelings, ideas, and needs directly through music, which is particularly effective when verbal expression is limited or limited by social or developmental factors. Because the emphasis is on spontaneous musical dialogue and the therapist tuned to the child’s musical responses, it naturally facilitates self-expression in a way that structured or non-music-focused approaches do not. Guided Imagery and Music relies more on guided listening and imagery rather than interactive musical creation; a Cognitive Behavioral approach centers on thoughts and behaviors through verbal strategies rather than primarily through music-making; the remaining option would not align as closely with the goal of expressive, relational music-making.