Feminist Perspectives in Music Therapy

This chapter presents an overview of the developments of feminist perspectives in music therapy. The authors outline the history of feminist thought in music therapy and how this framework applies to the discipline and profession of music therapy. Basic tenets of feminism are described including the importance placed on valuing women’s perspectives, egalitarianism, examining social constructs, examining discursive practices, and empowerment. Additionally, systems of oppression are considered with reference to inequalities that exist within the field of music therapy. The chapter ends with an examination of ways in which a feminist framework can inform assessment, clinical practice, research, ethics, and pedagogy in music therapy.