A proposal submitted by Joy Allen, assistant professor of music therapy at Loyola University New Orleans, has been accepted by the International Scientific Committee for presentation at the 13th World Congress of Music Therapy. The conference takes place July 5-9 in Seoul, South Korea.
In her study, “Group music psychotherapy to improve the self-concept of breast cancer survivors,” breast cancer survivors were randomly assigned to one of two ten-week treatment groups and group music psychotherapy or a cognitive-behavioral based support group. Pre- and post-intervention comparisons were made using the Body Image After Breast Cancer Scale and the Tennessee Self-concept Scale on measures of identity, role performance, self-esteem and body image.
“Results indicated music psychotherapy was effective for addressing identity, family role relationships, body image and self-esteem,” said Allen. “Furthermore, results indicated when compared to traditional forms of therapy, music psychotherapy is as effective, or in some cases, more effective in treating self-concept and the needs of breast cancer survivors.”
The World Federation of Music Therapy is an international nonprofit organization bringing together music therapy associations and individuals interested in developing and promoting music therapy globally through research and collaboration. It aims to share latest research and clinical practice in music therapy with a variety of populations and settings, and promote a platform for networking and professional exchange for music therapists and colleagues from related fields.
This international congress will offer innovative sessions, roundtables, workshops and poster sessions highlighting cutting edge research, teaching strategies, and the latest clinical practices in music therapy by colleagues from around the world.