Thesis
Finding peace and support: anti-oppressive trauma-informed music therapy with bereaved adolescents
Master of Arts (M.A.), Drexel University
Jun 2025
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-4162
Abstract
Adolescent bereavement is a long and complicated journey with potential for reshaping one's identity, family, friendships, and social and cultural experiences. This critical review of the literature highlights significant insights from recent publications on grief theory and counseling, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed practice, cultural humility, and music therapy theory and case studies. Four key themes related to supporting adolescents experiencing trauma and grief in therapeutic settings were identified: the importance of anti-oppressive practice and cultural humility, the profound effects of trauma and grief on various aspects of adolescent development, the role of music therapy as a creative medium for emotional expression and connection, and the necessity of building resilience and trust in the therapeutic relationship. The author recommends an 8-week music therapy program informed by this literature review and synthesis, as well as by personal and professional observation and reflection. This program aims to help adolescents navigate their unique feelings and experiences surrounding grief and trauma, with an emphasis on structuring safety, building resilience, establishing trust, and fostering post-traumatic growth.
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Details
- Title
- Finding peace and support
- Creators
- Charlotte A. Bell
- Contributors
- Florence Ierardi (Advisor) - Drexel University, Creative Arts Therapies
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- v, 51 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Creative Arts Therapies; College of Nursing and Health Professions; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991014632234604721