ABSTRACT
Music therapy occurs within the context of a professional relationship similar to that of other health and business domains, such as with medical doctors and attorneys. Psychotherapy also takes place within a professional relationship, but the role of the client–professional relationship is somewhat unique in that the quality of the relationship is integral to the effectiveness of the therapy. This situation is different from even closely related disciplines such as speech therapy or physical therapy where an open, trusting, and intimate relationship might facilitate the achievement of clinical goals, but is not necessarily a central ingredient in the efficacy of the therapy.
