Taking a trauma-informed lens supports music therapy educators and clinical supervisors in understanding and working with students’ learning needs as well as their classroom presence. In this presentation, music therapy professors draw upon research and their own areas of expertise to offer details on what having a trauma-informed approach in the classroom and clinic means, and why it is important to integrate the six trauma-informed principles. Balancing student needs with professional competencies can be a difficult task, especially with the rising rates of student anxiety. Educational standards are already rigorous, and educators and clinical supervisors support students to self-assess their own developmental, emotional, and educational paths. A trauma-informed approach to teaching and supervision enhances this process and helps students connect their learning journey to their development as a professional music therapist.
