• Journal of Music and Human Behavior
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• v.21 no.3
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• pp.65-89
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• 2024

This study examines the response strategies of the National Association of Korean Music Therapists (NAKMT) during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on certification management, professional re-education, and clinical practice operations. Based on written documents and interviews collected from January 2020 to August 2023, it analyzes NAKMT's measures in certification exams, continuing education, academic activities, and infection control, while comparing these strategies with those implemented by the CBMT(Certification Board for Music Therapists) and the AMTA (American Music Therapy Association). During the pandemic, NAKMT transitioned the KCMT certification exams to an online format to ensure continuity of credentialing processes. Additionally, it expanded remote continuing education and strengthened international collaboration by increasing the number of lectures from overseas experts. Furthermore, NAKMT provided infection control guidelines and psychological support manuals to enhance safety for both clients and therapists, thereby implementing strategies aimed at minimizing risks within clinical settings. This analysis provides practical insights into crisis management strategies in the field of music therapy based on the historical precedent of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Journal of Music and Human Behavior
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• v.8 no.2
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• pp.1-20
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• 2011

The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical practice-related anxiety and coping strategies in music therapists. 81 music therapists who are members of the National Korean Music Therapist Association, completed the self-report questionnaires. Results in this study showed that the highest rating scores were found with relationship anxiety, followed by musical performance anxiety and performance anxiety. As causing factors for each anxiety type, uncooperative behaviors and attitudes of clients were reported to highly affect interpersonal anxiety; improvising music during music therapy sessions for musical performance anxiety, and observations of music therapy sessions by staff and related professionals for performance anxiety. Regarding coping strategies used by the respondents, cognitively questioning anxiety issues was most frequently used to deal with performance anxiety; actively involving in behavior modification of clients for relationship anxiety, and practicing music skills for musical performance anxiety. The results provided descriptive information of anxiety and coping strategies that music therapists experienced. Also, this study indicates how music therapists would deal with anxiety-inducing situations and develop their coping strategies for better clinical practice.