A research-based map of music therapy in the Czech Republic: Comparisons with other arts therapies

ABSTRACT Introduction The development of music therapy in the Czech Republic is closely connected with the development of other arts therapies (AsTs). This cross-sectional study aims to provide a research-based description of the current state of Czech music therapy and offer comparisons with other AsTs. Method Data were obtained through a modified version of “The Practice in Arts Therapies” questionnaire, which was distributed to arts therapists registered with professional associations in the Czech Republic. From the total sample (N = 144), there were 50 music therapists. The remainder of the sample were drama, dance movement, art therapists, and combinations of these therapies (N = 94). Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed relating to work environment, client groups, and preferred therapeutic trends. Results Czech music therapy is closely connected to working with special needs populations in social care and educational environments. Practitioners follow humanistic, active/directive and artistic/creative trends. Significant differences were found between music therapists and other arts therapists with regard to the client populations (in their age and type of needs), and therapeutic trends. Discussion Czech music therapy has strengths in the area of special needs, but it will be important to achieve further growth, especially in health care. This may have a crucial impact on the formation of a common legislative framework for art therapists. We recommend repeating this survey in the future to see how the university-based program for music therapy will have influenced the profession.