Finding common ground: Exploring speech language pathologists’ experiences of collaboration with music therapists in treating people living with aphasia

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to investigate speechlanguage pathologists’ (SLPs’) experiences of collaboration with music therapists (MTs) in treating people with aphasia. Our analysis of the data yielded mixed outcomes, highlighting/identifying aspects that support and challenge collaboration. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with three participants. The participants were SLPs who had experience treating people with aphasia in hospital and community-based settings. Thematic analysis was used to identify components of MT-SLP collaborations in treating aphasia. Results revealed the following themes: personal and clinical aspects, and systemic challenges of MT-SLP collaborations. Participants’ feedback on the thematic analysis was incorporated into the discussion which presents insights into the overarching qualities of successful MT-SLP collaboration and the contributions of music in aphasia treatment. This research provides a list of music interventions which may be a resource for SLPs and MTs in treating aphasia. Additionally, topics discussed in this research may assist SLPs and MTs in advocating for collaborative care of people living with aphasia.