scholarly journals Mentalization Based Treatment (MBT): A Possible Theoretical Frame for Music Therapy Practice in Clinical Psychiatry

Author(s):  
Niels Hannibal ◽  
Melody Schwantes

The mentalization based treatment (MBT) model may be a valuable theoretical perspective for music therapists to consider using with clients in need of mental health care, particularly those with borderline personality disorder. This article explores some of the basic principles of MBT and its application to music therapy. We have included a case study and reflections for further consideration. It is our hope that music therapists will begin to incorporate this model within their treatment and care of clients with psychiatric disorders. 

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ramamohan Veluri ◽  
Stacey Roles ◽  
Roberta Heale ◽  
Vicky P. K. H. Nguyen ◽  
M. Elizabeth Renouf

Abstract Background: The cost of urgent mental health care services is high, both to the system as well as the individual and strategies that prevent these visits are paramount. Frequent users of the emergency department (ED) are a small percentage of ED patients but account for a large percent of visits. In particular, studies show that those patients with borderline personality disorder commonly present to urgent care. Given the rising number of ED visits and the corresponding cost to the health care system, it is important to explore strategies for avoidable or preventable visits to the ED, coupled with directing resources that ensure access to appropriate quality care. Methods: This research was a prospective chart review of the population of frequent users diagnosed with psychiatric illness in the (ED) and crisis (CRI) services at one hospital. Detailed analysis revealed characteristics of the patients who presented to the ED and CRI with a mental health diagnosis. Additional analysis of the subgroup of these patients with borderline personality disorder and/or self-harming behaviour was completed to determine the impact of the model of psychiatric care on subsequent crisis or ED visits in the year after the index visit. Results: The majority of patients presenting for mental health issues did so once. The mean number of subsequent presentations to the ED was 5.00 demonstrating that a small number of patients presented many times. Male patients were trending toward significance for number of ED and CRI visits. Patients with borderline personality disorder and/or self-harming behaviours in a model of care that offered increased access to services were less likely to visit the ED and CRI. Conclusions: Unstable or complex patients with psychiatric issues often present at the ED and CRI. Accessibility to community care services has the potential to reduce the number of ED and CRI visits and is a critical factor when considering this less stable group.


Author(s):  
Helen Odell-Miller

Towards the end of the twentieth century focus upon the diagnosis of personality disorder began to change. Previously, people with personality disorders experienced marginalization within mental health services. People with a diagnosis of personality disorder may feel distressed, frightened, and in psychic pain on a daily basis, as well as having emotional and relationship difficulties. They may also engage in self-harm which is difficult to alleviate and often hidden. Music therapists can engage musically with patients, and listen to the music they create in order to better understand their emotions and how they interact with others. These experiences and emotions can then be made more meaningful through subsequent discussions. Through group work processes members can take care of themselves and develop concern for others. In music therapy feelings can be explored that may be difficult to discuss, and a focus away from preoccupation with self-harm can be provided.


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