Spirituality and transcendence in music therapy: A narrative review of the literature
Abstract
Introduction: There is an emerging interest in spirituality in the field of music therapy. This
project explores the state of knowledge on spirituality and transcendence in music therapy
practice exploring the research question “How do music therapists discuss (or do not
discuss) moments of transcendence in their practice?”.
Method: A narrative review of the English literature was conducted to identify, critically
analyse and synthesise literature related to transcendence in music therapy. Literature was
limited to accessible publications in the English language from music therapy journals,
bibliographic databases, electronic databases and books from year 2000 to 2020.
Results: The conclusions reached referring to the stated research question “How do music
therapist discuss spirituality and transcendence in their practice?” are discussed under two
sections: Spirituality in music therapy practice; Moments of transcendence in music therapy.
The first section reports music therapists’ voices on spirituality under two subsections: a
spiritual approach to life experience provides meaning to suffering and enhances hope; the
relevance of spirituality to music therapy practice as a way to address the person as a whole.
The second section is explored around five emerging themes: magical moments; a sense of
connection; a state of worship and meditation; an experience beyond space and time; a
mystical dimension.
Discussion: Authors in the field of music therapy have reported a spiritual approach to
suffering brings meaning and hope to the individual. This seems paramount to our practice
as music therapist, as working with each individual’s spirituality and beliefs can support the
clients’ process of finding meaning, experiencing hope in their difficulties and transcending
suffering. Working with the individual’s spirituality and beliefs may be a venue to working
with the person’s resources and journeying alongside the client. Further investigation on
spirituality and music therapy is encouraged, and further education on spirituality in music
therapy programs is suggested.