Research-Based Guide to Family Music Therapy within the Family Systems Theoretical Framework

Families are the building blocks of society and the first system that children are a part of. Varying in both structure and function, families serve to develop their members and create a collective identity. When the family system struggles, family therapy may be needed. Music therapy has been shown to improve communication skills, facilitate positive interactions, and express emotions. The most efficacious and widely practiced family therapy theory among Marriage and Family Therapists is Family Systems Theory, while research shows that most music therapists working with families practice within a Humanistic Theory. The purpose of this study was to create a research-based guide to educate and prepare music therapists to provide services to families within Family Systems Theory by giving recommendations through the elements of the music therapy standards of clinical practice.