ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with an introduction to neurodisabilities including traumatic brain injury, acquired brain injury, prolonged disorders of consciousness and degenerative conditions. It explores rehabilitation and treatment pathways and the contexts in which a music therapist may meet and work with individuals of all ages and abilities. It discusses the science of music processing in the brain and how global activation of neural networks and concepts of neuroplasticity can be used to understand why music therapy is a useful intervention. Through case studies, a variety of methods and theoretical underpinnings are explored including songwriting, client-led creative improvisation and functional approaches such as Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT)® and Music Therapy Assessment Tool for Awareness in Disorders of Consciousness (MATADOC). These offer real-world examples of clinical practice from which clinicians can draw elements into their own current or future practice.
