Chapter 3

Chapter 3 – Music Therapy in Canada

Introduction to Music Therapy in Canada

  • Post-introduction of modern medicine, music was rarely utilized within healthcare contexts.

  • Early practitioners did not unite until the 1970s, about 20 years after the establishment of music therapy in the USA and UK.

  • Significant challenges encountered during development delayed educational programs until the mid-1970s.

    • Prior to this, training required international travel.

  • Presently, music therapy in Canada has institutional support and is practiced in various healthcare settings.

  • Rapid growth in research enhances recognition and funding opportunities.

Overview of Key Concepts

  • History and Pioneers of Canadian Music Therapy

  • Establishment of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT)

  • Development of the Canadian Music Therapy Fund (CMTF)

  • Professional Development in Music Therapy

  • Certification Process for Canadian Music Therapists

  • Music Therapy's Clinical Process in Canada

History of Development of Music Therapy in Canada

Early Use of Music in Treatment

  • As early as the 1840s, music was recorded as a treatment in Canadian psychiatric facilities.

  • An article from 1849 noted the benefits of music and dance for patients suffering from melancholy at Beauport Asylum, Quebec.

Influential Figures and Programs in the 20th Century

  • Roch Lyonnais (1879):

    • Promoted music therapy through lectures in the US.

  • Throughout the 20th century, informal music usage continued in psychiatric treatment.

  • Key Pioneers:

    • Norma Sharpe, Alfred Rosé, Fran Herman, and Thérèse Pageau advocated for professionalization based on American and British models.

Development of Treatment Programs

  • 1950s:

    • Development of seven notable Canadian music therapy programs despite no formal education or national organizations.

    • Alfred Rosé (1952):

      • Initiated treatment programs at Westminster Hospital and London Psychiatric Hospital.

    • Fran Herman (1956):

      • Founded "The Wheelchair Players" at the Home for Incurable Children (Holland Bloorview), integrating music into physical rehabilitation.

Recognition and Conference Organization

  • By the late 1950s and early 1960s, awareness and collaboration among music therapists grew.

  • Norma Sharpe's Contributions:

    • Conducted a 1960 study on music use in hospitals, confirming widespread interest in music therapy.

    • Organized Canada’s first music therapy conference in 1974, fostering communication and collaboration among therapists.

Formation of the CAMT

  • Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT):

    • Established in 1976, marking official recognition of the profession.

    • Focuses on supporting therapists, providing ethical guidelines, expanding music therapy scope, and improving educational programs.

  • By 1979, 17 MTAs were certified; this number increased notably in the following years.

Expansion and Credibility Building

  • The CAMT developed the Canadian Journal of Music Therapy (CJMT) for sharing research and techniques, adding credibility to the field.

  • Annual conferences hosted by CAMT promote ongoing professional development and field awareness.

Regional Associations and Initiatives

  • Provincial associations emerged to offer localized support to music therapists.

  • March is recognized as Music Therapy Awareness Month in Canada, enhancing public understanding of the field.

Canadian Music Therapy Fund (CMTF)

  • CMTF Established (1993):

    • Addressed the gaps in access to music therapy services, especially due to lack of insurance coverage.

    • Collaborates with the Music Therapy Centre in Toronto for funding and service accessibility.

  • Objectives include:

    • Promoting services in remote communities and developing affordable programs.

    • Providing funding for therapists and educational scholarships.

Professional Development in Music Therapy

  • Music therapists must engage in continual education to maintain accreditation through CAMT.

  • The Music Therapy Academy launched in 2016 to enhance professional development.

    • Offers workshops welcoming other healthcare professionals recognizing the value of music therapy across disciplines.

Certification Process for Music Therapists in Canada

Requirements to Become an MTA

  • Bachelor's or Master's in music therapy from a CAMT-accredited university.

  • Completion of a 1000-hour supervised clinical internship.

  • Passing the Certification Board of Music Therapists (CBMT) exam.

  • Ongoing professional development and compliance with CAMT ethics.

Education Institutions Offering Music Therapy Programs

  • Notable programs include:

    • Capilano University (British Columbia - BMT)

    • Wilfrid Laurier University (Ontario - BMT/MMT)

    • University of Toronto (Ontario - MMT)

    • Acadia University (Nova Scotia - BMT)

    • Concordia University (Quebec - MMT)

    • Canadian Mennonite University (Manitoba - BMT)

Clinical Process in Canada

Steps to Access Music Therapy

  • Referral (self-referral or professional referral)

  • Initial assessment of cognitive, psychological, and physical well-being.

  • Establishing treatment goals and implementing a tailored plan.

  • Continuous evaluation and reassessment of progress.

Conclusion

  • Despite prior delays, music therapy is now a self-regulated and recognized profession in Canada.

  • Initiatives by CAMT and CHEMT have helped to foster educational opportunities, increase field credibility, and enhance patient care.