Tamar Hadar, MT, PhD – “Moments of Thirdness in Music Therapy: Utilizing Jessica Benjamin’s Theory for Understanding Clinical Improvisation”

The exploration of intersubjective processes is a key focus across numerous therapeutic disciplines, including music therapy. Many scholars investigated the intersubjective meanings that arise from musical experiences within music therapy. This study concentrated on understanding the development of intersubjective relationships through dyadic improvisation, analyzing six music therapy studies that feature detailed descriptions of clinical improvisations or improvisations informed by music therapy principles, even if non-clinical, all emphasizing relational dynamics.

A meta-analysis of six studies was conducted following a four-step methodological process. The researcher first identified a research question and then collected relevant qualitative and mixed-methods studies. Six studies were retained for analysis, and a thematic analysis was performed to uncover underlying themes that captured the essence of intersubjectivity in dyadic improvisation. The researcher then organized the findings into a conceptual framework reflecting different phases of “thirdness” in clinical improvisation, which formed the results section.

The thematic analysis revealed two main themes, highlighting distinct developmental stages in clinical improvisation and reflecting intersubjective processes, as described by Jessica Benjamin: (1) The emergence of musical recognition, approaching “one in the third”; (2) The recognition of musical separateness, reaching “third in the one.”

Grounded in Jessica Benjamin’s intersubjective theory, this talk will explore the intricate concept of “thirdness” and its potential expressions within clinical improvisation. Additionally, implications for music therapists’ daily practice will be shared. The presentation will demonstrate how improvisational processes can create an intersubjective space between client and therapist, facilitating mutual recognition of each other’s distinctness. This approach is applicable to music therapists from diverse cultural backgrounds and therapeutic orientations and can be adapted to various forms of clinical music-making. The talk will underscore a multicultural perspective by showcasing the distinct intersubjective frameworks that arise from different musical genres worldwide.

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