“Why Can't We Be Friends?”

Abstract

This article describes a research project undertaken to explore the concept of friendship in the context of music therapy relationships. An extensive review of the music therapy literature is presented, drawing also on related disciplines including psychoanalysis, philosophy, musicology and sociology.

Data from interviews with three music therapists, practising across a range of clinical contexts, is presented in categories, followed by a discussion of the findings and their implications. Issues arising include boundaries, the balance between professional and personal dynamics, the role of music in intimacy, and trust between professionals.

It is concluded that friendship is a complex issue, but that personal dynamics such as friendship are often present in clinical relationships at different times and in different ways. Boundaries and ethical rules are considered fundamentally important. They are viewed as flexible rather than fixed, depending on the clinical setting and the client's needs.

The study also concludes that friendship and related concepts such as love and sexuality may be taboo subjects within the profession. It seems that this may be due to anxieties about professional discreditation as well as more general anxieties within society. The lack of open discussion on these subjects can then give rise to therapist anxieties about intimacy with clients. This is seen as an issue particularly affecting inexperienced or trainee music therapists.