Exploring the role of intersectionality in current music therapy practices: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

The term “intersectionality” and related concepts have become popular throughout recent music therapy literature; however, there is minimal research on how music therapists are currently using intersectionality in their clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to investigate how music therapists are actively utilizing intersectional approaches with the individuals they are working with, and whether or not they are “practicing what they preach” in relation to an intersectional framework. Additionally, this study explored how music therapy education has prepared currently working music therapists to work in an intersectional capacity. Participants for this study included three board-certified music therapists that have been practicing full-time for at least five years and have experience working with clients that hold historically minoritized identities. Participants shared their experiences and beliefs in semi-structured, individual interviews. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). From the IPA, eight themes emerged: a) actively using an intersectional approach; b) intersectionality in context; c) safety; d) authenticity; e) self-reflexivity; f) values and intentions; g) social justice and activism; h) education. The data suggests that while music therapists are practicing in an intersectional capacity, they are doing so through their own self-reflexivity, authenticity, and self-sought education. Participants agreed that formal education on intersectionality is crucial to include in undergraduate music therapy courses in order to best prepare all-level clinicians to foster an anti-oppressive and inclusive practice. Other clinical implications, study limitations, and recommendations for educators and future research are discussed. Keywords: music therapy; intersectionality; cultures; identities; music therapy education; intersectional approach; intersectional framework; social justice; activism.