Music therapy is a valuable method of support and treatment for those dealing with trauma within the adoption community. Music Therapy in Adoption and Trauma offers a timely and much-needed perspective for music and creative arts therapists, as well as families themselves.

Addressing topics such as contemporary adoption processes, potential resulting trauma, attachment and adoption breakdown, the book looks at why music therapy specifically can help. Throughout, it centres the value of lived experience in increasing understanding of trauma and effective support.

Following a decade of dramatic change within the adoption practice, this book is an invaluable resource for those looking to support individuals and families impacted by adoption.

Author Bio:

Joy Gravestock is Senior Lecturer at the University of the West of England, Bristol and a self-employed music therapist in private practice. Prior to her music therapy training, she was clinical lead for a Nottinghamshire NHS Trust, in adoption services, CAMHS, Nottinghamshire. She was also a member of Nottingham and Leicester Adoption Panels for many years. She currently works as a specialist music therapist in adoption practice is working towards a PhD focussed on attunement within music therapy relationships and adoption reparation.

Review:

“The importance of this book cannot be overstated. Joy Gravestock has produced a seminal text in an area which is now widely recognised as one of the most important in contemporary health and social care. The text will prove invaluable to those involved in all areas of the adoption process, including music therapists, social workers, agencies, counsellors and adoptees and their families” – Dr Elizabeth Coombes, Course Leader for MA Music Therapy at the University of South Wales.