Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) Practice Exam

How should a music therapist handle a nonverbal 7-year-old girl who is fearful and anxious during her initial session?

1. Meet the child by playing music to express the intensity of her crying

2. Reflect the child's sound and breathing with careful musical phrasing

3. Comfort the child by holding and rocking her while singing soothing lyrics

4. Sing without words so the child hears another voice that corresponds to how she is feeling

The correct answer is: Reflect the child's sound and breathing with careful musical phrasing

In the context of working with a nonverbal 7-year-old girl who is displaying fear and anxiety, reflecting the child's sound and breathing with careful musical phrasing is an effective approach. This strategy is rooted in the concept of matching or mirroring the child’s emotional state through music. By reflecting her sounds and breathing, the therapist creates a safe and supportive environment. This approach acknowledges the child's emotional experiences, allowing her to feel understood without the need for verbal communication. This method can establish a connection, facilitating trust and comfort for the child. It also encourages her to engage with the music therapist at her own pace, helping her to process her emotions through a nonverbal medium. In contrast, the other methods, although potentially beneficial, may not be as effective in directly addressing the child’s immediate fears and anxieties. For instance, playing music to express the intensity of her crying, while an attempt to understand her emotions, might actually heighten her anxiety rather than provide comfort. Similarly, comforting her by holding and rocking while singing soothing lyrics could be intrusive, especially since she is nonverbal and may not welcome physical contact. Finally, singing without words may not resonate as effectively with her immediate need for connection and reflection of her experience,