A Conceptual Framework for Group Processing of Lyric Analysis Interventions in Music Therapy Mental Health Practice

Abstract

Although lyric analysis is a common music therapy intervention in mental health, limited clinical information is available that specifically focuses on the processing questions used during implementation. Based on Kees and Jacobs's (1990) group exercise processing model, and contextualized within a cognitive-behavioral orientation, this lyric analysis framework provides structure and assists music therapy students and young clinicians in the beginning stages of planning, implementing, and evaluating lyric analysis interventions. This conceptual framework includes five levels of goal-directed questions: foundation (i.e., process the music itself), reflection (i.e., reflect on participant responses), group process (i.e., discuss the effect on group process), personal insights (i.e., reflect on participants' personal insights), and transfer (i.e., transfer new insights to their lives). Music therapy students and beginning clinicians may create a priori questions based on needs, goals, and characteristics of the clients, group, music, and therapist, and move through the five levels based on client responses and clinical decisions.

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