Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) Practice Exam

What is the best approach for a music therapist who is unfamiliar with a client’s preferred music style?

1. Encourage the client to explore other music styles

2. Familiarize herself with the client’s music preferences

3. Provide a variety of music without regard for the client’s preference

4. Explain her dislike of the client’s music style

The correct answer is: Familiarize herself with the client’s music preferences

The best approach for a music therapist who is unfamiliar with a client’s preferred music style is to familiarize herself with the client’s music preferences. Understanding the client's musical tastes is essential in establishing rapport and ensuring that therapy sessions are relevant and engaging for the client. By taking the time to learn about the client's preferred styles, the therapist can tailor music interventions to align with the client's interests, enhancing the therapeutic relationship and increasing the effectiveness of the sessions. It allows for the integration of familiar elements that may evoke positive emotions, memories, and responses that are important for the therapeutic process. This approach respects the individuality of the client and supports their autonomy in therapy, which is fundamental in a client-centered practice. In contrast, encouraging a client to explore other music styles may not be effective if the client has strong preferences or lacks interest in new styles. Providing a variety of music without regard for the client's preferences could lead to disengagement or resistance during sessions. Explaining a dislike of the client's music style would not only be unprofessional but could also damage the therapeutic alliance and hinder progress in the therapy. Thus, familiarizing oneself with the client’s music preferences is the most effective and respectful strategy.