There is a substantial gap in the music therapy literature surrounding adoptees, and more specifically, transracially adopted music therapists (TRA MTs). Literature has discussed the benefits of music therapy for adoptees as clients, but there is limited research on adoptees as therapists. The researchers conducted a phenomenological study on the lived experiences of TRA MTs and how their uniquely complex identities affect the therapeutic process and the supervisory relationship. The findings indicate areas of growth and need within the music therapy profession for further support and awareness of TRA MT experiences. Additionally, relevant adoptee literature brings to light the importance of acknowledging the trauma related to an adoptee’s experience.
In this presentation, participants will learn more about the experiences of TRA MTs and the nuances of adoption as related to trauma-informed care and music therapy. The presenters will provide an overview of their research, “The Lived Experiences of Transracially Adopted
Music Therapists” (Davenport et al., 2023), followed by a discussion on the role of adoption and loss in trauma-informed care and music therapy. Participants will hear from adoptees themselves, centering the experiences that are often overlooked and dismissed. Additionally, participants will be encouraged to examine their own biases and preconceived notions of adoption.
Music therapists and students of all levels will benefit from this presentation, gaining a critical awareness of adoption-related issues. The relevance of this presentation extends beyond adoption, including “non-traditional” families, family separation, parental/caregiver death and loss, and cultural loss, including institutional oppression and ancestral trauma.
