Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) Practice Exam

When might a music therapist consider adapting a session for a client exhibiting increased agitation?

1. When the client is overly passive during intervention

2. When the client's engagement is at its peak

3. When the client responds positively to all stimuli

4. When the client's behavior suggests overstimulation

The correct answer is: When the client's behavior suggests overstimulation

A music therapist would consider adapting a session for a client exhibiting increased agitation when the client's behavior suggests overstimulation. In therapeutic practice, recognizing signs of overstimulation is crucial for ensuring the client's comfort and safety. Agitation can often signal that the client is overwhelmed by the sensory input or emotional demands of the session. By adapting the session in response to these behaviors, the therapist can modify the environment, the tempo of music, or the type of interventions used to help the client regain a sense of control and calm. When a client is overstimulated, typical therapeutic practices may lead to increased distress rather than therapeutic engagement. Watching for cues such as pacing, fidgeting, or vocal outbursts can guide the therapist in making necessary adjustments to avoid exacerbating the client's agitation. This adaptive approach helps facilitate a more effective therapeutic experience and encourages a supportive environment conducive to the client's emotional and psychological needs.