The Theory and Practice of Vocal Psychotherapy ─ Songs of Self

Drawing on Jungian psychology, object relations theory, trauma theory, and the concept of intersubjectivity between therapist and client, music therapist Austin (New York U.) discusses these theoretical underpinnings and the process of helping patients re-connect with dissociated aspects of themselves through breathing, toning, and vocal improvision techniques such as 'free associative singing' and 'vocal holding' that she developed. Although most of the interventions illustrated in case examples feature individual patients, many of them can be adapted to group work. Annotation c2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Diane Austin, DA, ACMT, LCAT, received her Doctorate in Music Therapy from New York University. She has maintained a private practice in music psychotherapy for the past 20 years with offices in Manhattan and Sag Harbor, New York. Diane is the Executive Director of The Music Psychotherapy Center and an associate professor in the Graduate Music Therapy program at New York University. Widely published in books and journals, she lectures and teaches nationally and internationally, integrating the theories and ideas from Depth Psychology with the practice of music therapy and the use of the voice in the therapeutic process. Diane lives in Sag Harbor, New York with her husband and Amazon parrot.