A research-based map of music therapy in the Czech Republic: Comparisons with other arts therapies

Introduction: The development of music therapy in the Czech Republic is closely connected with the development of other arts therapies (AsTs). This cross-sectional study aims to provide a research-based description of the current state of Czech music therapy and offer comparisons with other AsTs. Method: Data were obtained through a modified version of “The Practice in Arts Therapies” questionnaire, which was distributed to arts therapists registered with professional associations in the Czech Republic. From the total sample (N = 144), there were 50 music therapists. The remainder of the sample were drama, dance movement, art therapists, and combinations of these therapies (N = 94). Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed relating to work environment, client groups, and preferred therapeutic trends. Results: Czech music therapy is closely connected to working with special needs populations in social care and educational environments. Practitioners follow humanistic, active/directive and artistic/creative trends. Significant differences were found between music therapists and other arts therapists with regard to the client populations (in their age and type of needs), and therapeutic trends. Discussion: Czech music therapy has strengths in the area of special needs, but it will be important to achieve further growth, especially in health care. This may have a crucial impact on the formation of a common legislative framework for art therapists. We recommend repeating this survey in the future to see how the university-based program for music therapy will have influenced the profession.