Theoretical foundations and workable assumptions for cognitive behavioral music therapy in forensic psychiatry

This article offers a theoretical foundation for cognitive behavioral music therapy in forensic psychiatry. First, two cases are presented to give an insight into music therapy in forensic psychiatry. Secondly some background information on forensic psychiatry is provided. The Risk-Need-Responsivity model is explained as a starting point and the role of music therapy in this treatment is explained. The third part offers a cognitive behavioral music therapy model and explains the (neurological) role of music and the music therapist in the treatment of forensic psychiatric problems. The article ends with a few final remarks.

► Theoretical foundations and workable assumptions for cognitive-behavioral music therapy in forensic psychiatry.
► Neurological function of music in onset of behavioral changes of forensic psychiatric patients.
► Music therapy suits Risk-Need-Responsivity and Good Lives models of forensic psychiatry.
► Directing music therapy to a cognitive-behavioral treatment model.